One of the most unique watches in every sense of the word is the new De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain ref. DB28xsPR. A purple watch in purple polished grade 5 titanium that is the result of thermal oxidation that De Bethune masters. This is the very first time that the brand has created a watch that has been purpled; however, De Bethune’s expertise goes to great lengths in mastering the art of bluing metals with the use of heat as the old watchmaking technique demands.

Metal oxidation is a natural process that occurs when certain metals are exposed to heat leading to the formation of oxides on the metal surface. When heated, they react with oxygen in the air, resulting in the formation of a thin layer of oxide on the surface of the metal. This oxidation process can have both positive and negative effects on the metal. On one hand, the oxide layer can act as a protective barrier, preventing further corrosion of the metal underneath. This is why metals like stainless steel are popular choices for applications where heat and oxidation are common and bluing steel hands is a common practice.

With the new DB28xs Purple Rain, De Bethune continues to explore all the color nuances resulting from the heat released by the chemical reactions of heated titanium.

Purple, with its rich and regal hue, has long been associated with qualities such as royalty, luxury, and creativity. Symbolizing power and nobility, it is a color that exudes a sense of sophistication and elegance. In the realm of fashion, purple is often used to make a bold statement or add a touch of glamour to any ensemble. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the color purple also carries deeper meanings, representing spirituality, wisdom, and magic in various cultures. Whether used in art, design, or everyday life, the significance of purple goes beyond boundaries.

Metal oxidation is a natural process that occurs when certain metals are exposed to heat and moisture, leading to the formation of oxides on the metal surface. This reaction is more commonly seen in metals like iron, copper, and aluminum. When these metals are heated, they react with oxygen in the air, resulting in the formation of a thin layer of oxide on the surface of the metal. This oxidation process can have both positive and negative effects on the metal. On one hand, the oxide layer can act as a protective barrier, preventing further corrosion of the metal underneath. This is why metals like stainless steel are popular choices for applications where heat and oxidation are common as it is with blued hands in the watchmaking industry.

In the workshops of De Bethune in l’Auberson, particles become luminous and titanium emits visible light. Matter oxidizes, properties change, surfaces transform, and unprecedented natural colors appear.

Denis Flageollet, Master Watchmaker and Founder of De Bethune, along with his team initially began working on the tone of blue. A color linked to the notion of infinity and harmony, natural blue is one of the major research fields at De Bethune. It has since become the unique signature of the house.

Things to Know About the Watch

The De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain is a bold evolution from the blue color mastered by the Maison. Indeed, before reaching blue, purple unfurls its chromatic richness, merging nuances of red and blue in a harmonious ballet. With a significantly smaller diameter than previous models at 39 mm, while retaining the unique and characteristic design of De Bethune.

Featuring a dial made of a purpled titanium plate, the De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain features an hours and minutes ring with transferred Arabic numerals, a random wave guilloché purpled titanium dial —a world’s first— and a starry sky with miniature white gold stars scattered around the dial. Marking the hours and the minutes two skeletonized and polished titanium hands complete the look. Both sapphire crystals on the front and back feature double anti-reflective coating. The watch is water resistant to 30 meters.

The watch is delivered on an extra-supple alligator leather strap with alligator lining, and purple contrast stitching and is equipped with a purple grade 5 titanium buckle and pin.

Turning the watch over reveals the exquisitely finished manual wound movement the in-house calibre DB2005. This movement is composed of 160 parts and 27 jewels and provides a power reserve of 6 days when fully wound thanks to a self-regulating twin barrel. The movement also features a titanium balance with white gold inserts, optimized for temperature differences and air penetration, the signature ‘De Bethune’ balance spring with a flat terminal curve, silicon escape wheel, and triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system.

On the Wrist & Price

On the wrist, the De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain wears true to its size and just like no other watch. Putting a De Bethune on your wrist feels very special and thanks to its floating lugs system their watches have unparalleled ergonomics. De Bethune watches are renowned for their exceptional comfort and wearability on the wrist. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, these timepieces boast a perfect balance of weight and size, making them ideal for daily wear.

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. Whether sporting a classic or contemporary model, wearing a De Bethune watch is a truly immersive experience that showcases the brand's dedication to both style and comfort.

This watch right here is for sure one of those ‘game over’ timepieces. Wow!

Sticker Price USD 99,000. For more info on De Bethune click here.