De Bethune

De Bethune is a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer revered for its innovative horological achievements and artisanal craftsmanship. Founded in 2002 by David Zanetta, a seasoned collector and art dealer, and Denis Flageollet, an accomplished watchmaker, De Bethune quickly garnered widespread attention within the watchmaking community. The brand's atelier is based in L’Auberson, in the Jura Mountains of Switzerland, a region with a rich heritage in watchmaking.

One of De Bethune's early and significant contributions was the development of their own in-house calibers, a rarity among niche brands. In 2004, they introduced the DB2109, which featured their first patented balance spring. This technical triumph underscored the brand's commitment to horological excellence and precision.

De Bethune is renowned for their avant-garde designs and the use of unconventional materials. The brand has pioneered the use of silicon and titanium in watchmaking, materials that enhance durability and performance. Their proprietary use of polished and blued titanium, especially in their dials, has become a distinctive aesthetic signature.

A hallmark of De Bethune's creativity is their approach to astronomical complications. The DB25L Starry Sky, for example, features a dial adorned with white gold and diamond stars depicting the exact sky map of the owner's choosing. This commitment to personalisation and detailed craftsmanship has set them apart.

In 2008, the brand launched the DB28, which won the Aiguille d'Or, the highest award at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in 2011. This model is particularly noted for its floating lugs, ensuring a comfortable fit on various wrist sizes and its futuristic aesthetic.