If you are a regular to our website, De Bethune needs little to no introduction. Just in case you're not, let's give you some basic background. In 2002, when David Zanetta, a collector with a passion for art, history and timepieces, decided to join forces in founding De Bethune with Denis Flageollet, the son, grandson and great-grandson of watchmakers. Not doing more, but instead doing better has been the guiding principle for their creations. Almost four years ago in November of 2011, De Bethune received the GPHG 'Aiguille d’Or' —Grand Prize at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève. David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet, are now masterfully accompanied at the head of the company by Pierre Jacques. Today, their vision and philosophy has given birth to some of the most fascinating and understated horological creations we've seen in the last ten years. Such is the case of the recently launched De Bethune DB25T Zodiac, a tourbillon tailored for those in love with astronomy and those who allow their destiny to be guided by the zodiac signs and the constellations these represent. The De Bethune DB25T Zodiac is fitted with a highly polished case in 18K white gold measuring 44 mm in diameter and fitted with hollowed lugs and a display case back that allows for full view of its silicon/titanium tourbillon with central jumping seconds.
Aside from its stunning guilloché silver toned dial with star-studded mirror polished blued titanium inlay with solid white gold stars, featuring hand-engraved solid gold inserts by artist Michèle Rothen representing the 12 zodiac signs, what makes this tourbillon even more special, is its central jumping seconds —secondes saltantes— and its movement oscillating at a frequency of 36,000 vph. Featuring a Roman numerals chapter ring for the hours, minute track on the outer perimeter, De Bethune gold hands and a movement operating indicator aperture at 12 o'clock, this watch is simply stunning and very well made. The zodiac signs are tastefully represented with the most delicate and exceptional hand-engraved technique.
Depending on the angle at which light hits the dial, the blued titanium inlay looks either deep blue or electric blue. The dial is a true chameleon and one of the nicest dials out there.
Turning the watch around reveals the most fascinating display case back with the manual wound De Bethune Calibre DB 2109 with 4-day power reserve adorned in all its glory. Equipped with 46 jewels and composed of 330 parts, the movement features the traditional 'Côtes de Bethune' decoration with De Bethune silicon/titanium 30-second tourbillon.
To round out its elegant look, the De Bethune DB25T Zodiac is fitted with a dark blue alligator strap with pin buckle. When it comes to De Bethune the strap is supple and very soft without the need for a break-in period. The DB25T Zodiac is available in a limited edition of 20 pieces and its a watch that wears true to its size.
Sticker Price $275,000 USD. For more info on De Bethune click here.
