WATCH COLLECTING LIFESTYLE

View Original

Insider: De Bethune DB28xs Aérolite. Muonionalusta Meteorite Dial with Random Guilloché.

On the occasion of Geneva Watch Days, De Bethune unveiled two new watches and one of them is the new DB28xs Aérolite. The DB28xs Aérolite draws inspiration from previous masterpieces such as the DB28xs Starry Seas and DB28XP Météorite models. Its 39 mm black zirconium case, coupled with a blue meteorite dial, symbolizes the meeting of earth and sky, of ancient craftsmanship and technological innovation. The dial on this new watch features a random guilloché pattern that creates a harmonious contrast to the precise geometric lines of the Muonionalusta meteorite.


 Things to Know About the Watch

The De Bethune DB28xs Aérolite watch ref. DB28xsZM is a remarkable example of contemporary horology, combining cutting-edge technology with exquisite craftsmanship and one of the most unique dials we’ve ever seen not only from De Bethune but from other brands. The case in matte anthracite black zirconium has an actual diameter of 38.7 mm and a thickness of 7.4 mm. The case on the DB28xs features the floating lugs system also in matte anthracite black zirconium.

The dial cut straight from the Muonionalusta meteorite. This meteorite was found in the village of Norrbottens in northern Sweden in 1906 by two children who were kicking stones and one of them kicked a very heavy rusty ‘stone’. After taking it back with them, years later it was identified as an iron meteorite.

The blueish dial features the intrinsic geometric motif of this meteorite that has been further enhanced by a random guilloché pattern that resembles waves very similar to the pattern on the DB28xs Starry Seas watch.

The DB28xs Aérolite features an anthracite hours ring with transferred Arabic numerals and a starry sky with white gold stars that have been applied to the meteorite dial. Opposed to the traditional De Bethune blued hands, this watch features polished pink gold hands.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most beautiful dials we’ve seen lately. If you want a meteorite dial watch, there is no other option but to go with this one. The watch is delivered on an extra-supple alligator leather with an alligator lining strap and black textile outer layer.


The Movement

Turning the De Bethune DB28xs Aérolite over reveals the beauty of the manual wound calibre DB2005 composed of 160 parts with 27 jewels, self-regulating twin barrel, titanium balance wheel with white gold inserts, De Bethune balance-spring with a flat terminal curve, silicon escape wheel, and triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system.

This movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph to provide an outstanding power reserve of 6 days. The decoration of the movement is exquisite and the black mirror polish on the delta-shaped bridge is simply out of this world.


On the Wrist & Price

On the wrist, the De Bethune DB28xs Aérolite wears true to its size and in a very unique way. Putting a De Bethune on your wrist feels very special thanks to its floating lugs system and it has unparalleled ergonomics wearing quite comfortably. The smooth curves and ergonomic design of De Bethune watches ensure a snug fit that conforms effortlessly to the wrist, providing a luxurious feel like no other.

Sticker Price USD 120,000. For more info on De Bethune click here.