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a close up of a wrist watch with a blue strapa lange watch with a white dial and blue leather strapa close up of a watch on a black surface with a blue strapa close up of a watch on a black surfacea close up of a gold wrist watch with a blue strapa close up of a watch on a white surface
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656 - DE BETHUNE REF. DB17RT NO. 004 IN PINK GOLD - From 2004 Refe…
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Estimate €60,000 - €90,000
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Description
DE BETHUNE REF. DB17RT NO. 004 IN PINK GOLD - From 2004 Reference No. DB17RT Serial No. 004 173-2004 Year: 2004 Material: 18K yellow gold Weight: 111g Dimensions: 42mm Calibre: Manual Crystal: Sapphire Strap: Leather with 18k buckle The De Bethune DB17RT ranks amongst the earliest and most historically significant creations of the independent manufacture founded by Denis Flageollet and David Zanetta. Produced during the brand’s formative years, this model belongs to the first generation of De Bethune wristwatches and embodies the philosophy that would later establish the maison as one of the most respected names in contemporary haute horlogerie. Bearing the production date of 17 March 2004 and numbered 004, this watch is an exceptionally early example from a series produced in extremely limited numbers. Housed in a rose gold case, the DB17RT combines classical proportions with the technical innovation that has distinguished De Bethune since its inception. The model features the brand’s celebrated astronomical moon-phase display, a complication that would become one of its defining hallmarks, presented on a dial of remarkable purity and legibility. At its heart beats De Bethune’s in-house calibre DB2004, developed during a pivotal period in the company’s history and showcasing the manufacture’s commitment to both chronometric performance and mechanical refinement. The movements incorporate several of the technical solutions that would later evolve into hallmarks of the brand’s research-driven approach to watchmaking. The DB17RT occupies a special place within De Bethune’s early catalogue. Produced before the brand achieved wider international recognition, these first-generation models were crafted for a small circle of connoisseurs and collectors, resulting in a level of rarity seldom encountered today. Combining historical significance, exceptional scarcity and the timeless elegance of De Bethune’s early design language, this example represents a remarkable opportunity to acquire one of the manufacture’s foundational creations.
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About the sale RARE WATCHES
Auction location
Auction time 07/07/2026 at 2:15 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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