De Bethune DB28 Dark Shadows, Anthracite Zirconium

In 2011, De Bethune were awarded the Aiguille d’Or distinction at the GPHG (Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève) – the prestigious award ceremony’s most coveted title - awarded for best overall watch in all categories, for the DB28. This limited edition of fifty DB28 Dark Shadows follows this success, introducing the same watch with a very different aesthetic.

The independent watchmaker is best known for decidedly contemporary design innovations, which firmly push the boundaries of 21st century horology. In its quest for mechanical perfection, De Bethune continues to conduct research and development within the manufacture’s laboratory, embracing the creation of materials new to the watch industry. The Dark Shadows Edition is a fitting demonstration of this, displaying a multitude of finishes, treatments and materials not commonly seen in the industry.

The manually-wound DB 2115 calibre movement not only displays finishing of the highest quality, with hand-decorated components, but is also technologically exceptional - representing De Bethune’s unique combination of cutting-edge precision and 18th century tradition. The 299 components show remarkable hand-finishing, with concentric graining and sharp, polished-bevels. With self-regulating twin barrels seen on the dial-side of the watch, a power-reserve of 144 hours (6 days) is achieved, shown by the highly-contrasted, rose-gold power-reserve indicator on the reverse of the watch.

By way of protection, the DB 2115 calibre also boasts a triple-parachute shock-absorbing system; unique to De Bethune calibres. The bridge of the triple parachute is secured by a spring-based system, protecting the heart of the movement. The various architectural elements are connected by three jewels, thereby absorbing shocks and ensuring precise re-positioning of the bridge after displacement.

The DB28 Dark Shadows displays a matte-anthracite zirconium bridge on the dial in De Bethune’s signature ‘triangle’ form, finished using traditional Cotes de Genève techniques. The skeletonised, black-polished steel hands offer a modern interpretation of classic Breguet styling, creating depth and preserving legibility. Between the floating chapter-ring (marking the minutes) and polished zirconium inner-bezel, rounded black-polished steel indexes denote the hours. Without the “De Bethune” name on the dial the polished, spherical, palladium moon-phase display at 6 o’clock draws the eye.

Sized at a contemporary 42.6 mm in diameter, the distinctive drum-shaped case of the DB28 is made from sandblasted anthracite zirconium. The manufactures’ articulated, hollowed lugs are spring-loaded, neatly forming around the wrist. The entire watch is given this same dark finish, while the screw-down crown is located at the 12 o’clock position.

This DB28 Dark Shadows is in mint condition, accompanied by its original box, papers (unsigned) and product materials. It comes fitted with an original, De Bethune black alligator strap and corresponding sandblasted anthracite zirconium buckle (open-worked in the same style as the lugs).

Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.

Closer look

Brand:	De Bethune
Model:	DB28 Dark Shadows
Movement:	manually-winding Cal. DB 2115
Functions:	hours, minutes
Features:	power-reserve display, display back, matte-anthracite zirconium bridge
Case:	42.6 mm titanium
Crystal:	sapphire front and back
Bracelet:	black alligator strap with anthracite zirconium buckle
Box & papers:	original box, papers, accompanying literature