The artistic approach and vision of David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet are grounded on the solid foundations of technical knowledge, well-mastered expertise and a culture nurtured by several centuries of history and enriched with all kinds of beauty.
Imposing tower clocks, table clocks or grandfather clocks, pocket watches and now wristwatches: the very essence of this horological culture graces the dial of the DB25T, notably in the aesthetic work on materials, the engraving and the light effects, but also and above all through consistently demonstrated miniaturisation technology.
The 44mm round case in white gold of the DB25 and its openworked lugs frame a polished and blued titanium sky, inlaid with solid white gold stars and adorned with hand-engravings - by artist Michèle Rothen - on solid gold and representing the 12 zodiac signs.
The radiance instilled by the silver-toned guilloché decoration radiating from the dial centre contributes to the multiple shimmering light effects on the grained rings, and on the openworked polished yellow gold hands.
The technical nature and the high frequency of the hand-wound DB2109 mechanism driving the jumping seconds display makes a striking contrast with the delicacy with which this large blue hand finely points to every second. De Bethune wished to revive the traditions of the golden age of horology by infusing this movement with the soul and the majesty of the great historical regulator clocks. “Jumping seconds” was a natural choice to impart a noble cadence to the passing of time. The components are pared down to essentials and feature simplicity where required and complexity where necessary.
A deltoid-shaped bridge adorned with the “Côtes De Bethune” motif supports the central seconds hand, while a double lever with four pallets drives the double gold wheel of this “jumping seconds”. The latter performs an impressive mechanical ballet rendered technically feasible by new technologies.
De Bethune has equipped the DB2109 with its silicon-titanium tourbillon making one rotation every 30 seconds at 36,000 vph. This ultra-light tourbillon comprises 63 parts, of which the lightest weighs less than 0.0001 grams and the heaviest 0.0276 grams! The movement offers 4 days of power reserve.
The watch is fitted with a navy blue, extra-supple alligator leather strap, with pin buckle. It comes in a limited edition of 20 pieces.
