De Bethune DB25 Starry Varius

$70,000

Out of Stock

In 2002, De Bethune was founded by David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet. Prior to that, Flageollet, co-founded THA society with François-Paul Journe, the company was tasked with creating movements for other notable brands. Watchmaking runs in Flageollet’s blood he represents the fourth generation of the Flageollet family to become a watchmaker. Since its inception De Bethune successfully respected traditions of old whilst being at the forefront of technical innovations, as a result, the brand boasts some of the most impressive calibres made to date. Apart from the impressive calibres, De Bethune does not shy away from the fusion of two different worlds, the Maestri Art DW5 Armilia and Dream Watch 6 are fine examples of the artisanal know-how tied into Haute horology.

The DB25 represents what De Bethune stands for, innovative, creative and neo-contemporary design code. Originally introduced in 2018 the DB25 stood out due to its ergonomic 42mm grade 5 polished titanium case. In classic De Bethune fashion the signature hollowed lugs were used, a major update is found in the case to lug connectivity. In the past the lugs would extend from the lower part of the case, they now seamlessly exit from the middle part of the case. The overall case measures a modest 8.8mm making this particular reference one of the most wearable De Bethune’s at the time.

The Dial

The star of the show, no pun intended, lies within the dial of the DB25 Starry Varius. The vibrant blue centre dial is crafted out of titanium. The arduous task of achieving such a dial is carried out in several phases. At the base, the grey titanium base metal is extensively polished and then mirror polished. The dial is then treated with a protective lacquer coating. The dial is then delicately oven blued, till the right shade of blue is achieved. A second layer of lacquer is then applied, the stars (pin like spherical heads) are then perforated throughout the dial, the end result is simply breathtaking. The concaving silver-tone outer dial offers a degree of contrast. The classical blue roman numerals and Breguet hands are a nod to De Bethune’s neo-contemporary design philosophy. Additionally, each hour is further marked by golden studs found just above the roman numerals.

The movement

This manually wound DB25 Starry Varrius is powered by calibre DB2005, the movement features twin barrels designed to reduce friction and efficiently transmit a maximum of energy to the escarpment. The movement is finished to an exceptional standard with contrasting techniques found throughout the movement such as hand-chamfered and polished steel parts. The calibre boasts an impressive 6-day power reserve. The elusive titanium balance wheel features a balance-spring with a flat terminal curve, protected by the triple pare-chute system.