1 / 6
Premium Artcurial
131
-
DE BETHUNE DBS-W S5 No. 072 Circa 2005
18k white gold (750) …
See original version (French)
131
-
DE BETHUNE DBS-W S5 No. 072 Circa 2005
18k white gold (750) …
See original version (French)
Estimate €30,000 - €50,000
Voluntary lot
Description
DE BETHUNE DBS-W S5
No. 072
Circa 2005
18k white gold (750) wristwatch with power reserve indicator on the case back
Case: round, polished metal, characteristic De Bethune design with lugs, crown integrated between two protective elements, solid case back with an opening allowing the power reserve to be read, signed
Dial: skeletonised, open construction revealing the mechanical components, large balance wheel visible in the lower section, characteristic transverse bridge above the regulating organ, high-end finishes with polished screws, exposed jewels and sunburst finish, raised dot hour markers, stylised hands, signed
Movement: mechanical, cal. DB2014, signed
Buckle: gold pin buckle, signed
Diameter: 43 mm
Gross weight: 113.60 g.
Includes: watch box and outer box.
Provenance: Collection of a Parisian collector.
An 18k white gold manual-winding wristwatch with power reserve indicator, gold signed buckle. From the collection of a Parisian collector.
Rare and iconic, the DBS holds a special place in the history of De Bethune. Unveiled in 2005, it marked an aesthetic and technical turning point for the manufacture by introducing several elements that have since become hallmarks of the brand: the crown positioned at 12 o’clock, the spherical moon phase at 6 o’clock, and the first articulated lugs, which would give rise to De Bethune’s famous patented floating lug system.
This particular example, crafted in white gold with a black dial, is one of the rarest configurations in the DBS collection. Its spectacular design features a partially openworked dial revealing the in-house movement, whilst the delta bridge, decorated with the ‘Côtes De Bethune’ pattern, emphasises the brand’s distinctive aesthetic identity.
Powered by the DB2014 calibre, the watch displays the hours and minutes, as well as a remarkably precise spherical moon phase. The power reserve indicator is visible on the case back. Despite its generous diameter of 42.5 mm, the articulated lugs ensure exceptional comfort on the wrist.
A model particularly sought after by collectors, this DBS represents one of the purest interpretations of the watchmaking philosophy developed by Denis Flageollet and De Bethune over the past twenty years.
Rare and iconic, the DBS occupies a special place in the history of De Bethune. Introduced in 2005, it marked a major aesthetic and technical milestone for the manufacture by incorporating several features that would later become hallmarks of the brand: the crown positioned at 12 o’clock, the spherical moon-phase display at 6 o’clock, and the first articulated lugs that would evolve into De Bethune’s famous patented floating-lug system.
This particular example, crafted in white gold with a black dial, is one of the rarest configurations in the DBS collection. Its striking architecture features a partially openworked dial revealing the in-house movement, whilst the delta-shaped bridge, decorated with the distinctive “Côtes De Bethune” finish, highlights the manufacture’s unique aesthetic identity.
Powered by the hand-wound DB2014 calibre, the watch displays the hours and minutes alongside a highly precise spherical moon-phase indication. The power reserve indicator is visible on the reverse of the case. Despite its generous 42.5 mm diameter, the articulated lugs ensure exceptional wearing comfort.
Particularly sought after by collectors, the DBS represents one of the purest expressions of the watchmaking philosophy developed by Denis Flageollet and De Bethune over the past two decades.
CONDITION REPORT:
Movement operational at the time of writing the catalogue. A few minor scratches from normal wear. Servicing recommended.
Please note that all watches are sold as is. No guarantee is given as to their working condition. Most watches have been opened to identify the type and quality of the movement, including water-resistant models. Buyers are advised to consult a watchmaker to check the watch’s water resistance. Any information provided regarding restoration, damage or the state of preservation is subject to the buyer’s own judgement. The absence of any indication of replacement parts, restoration or damage does not in any way imply that an item is free from any existing defects. All items presented may have undergone previous servicing and may contain non-original parts. The dimensions and weight of the items are given as approximate figures.
*We advise potential buyers that straps made from the hides of protected species are displayed but not sold with the watches. Artcurial reserves the right to remove these straps in the event of importation.
CONDITION REPORT:
The movement was operational at the time of cataloguing. Light surface scratches consistent with normal wear. Servicing recommended.
Please note that all watches are sold as is. No warranty is provided regarding their working condition. Most watches have been opened to identify the type and quality of the movement, including water-resistant models. Prospective buyers are advised to consult a qualified watchmaker to verify the water resistance of the watch. Any comments regarding restoration, accidents, or the state of preservation of a timepiece remain subject to the personal assessment of prospective purchasers. The absence of any reference to replacement parts, restoration or damage does not imply that an item is free from defects. All watches offered for sale may have undergone previous servicing and may contain non-original replacement parts. Dimensions and weights are provided for guidance only and should be considered approximate.
*Please note that straps made from materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (e.g. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these straps prior to dispatch.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like