Part of a limited release of 20 pieces, this De Bethune DB10 Réédition Spéciale combines a traditional, understated design with an in-house movement, which both pays tribute to vintage pocket watches yet integrates the unconventional De Bethune style.

In 2002, David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet joined forces to establish De Bethune, united by their shared vision of what contemporary watchmaking could look like. Zanetta was an enthusiastic collector, with a passion for art and history, whilst Flageollet was an accomplished fourth-generation watchmaker. The name “De Bethune” pays tribute to the Chevalier de Bethune, a French nobleman credited with inventing an escapement mechanism for pocket watches and clocks in 1727.

Limited to only 20 pieces, this reissued DB10W features an in-house movement – the calibre DB2124. While the previous DB10 watches were built upon a Schild ébauche, this new movement makes use of a snail regulator that is a tribute to older pocket watches, while integrating the modern De Bethune style. In keeping with the spirit of reinvention, the piece also now has a date function, in the form of a central date ring.

With its understated, traditional design, the piece departs significantly from the futuristic style of De Bethune’s other watches, yet this is countered by the aesthetic of the movement, which, when viewed through the sapphire caseback, reveal a hint of the brand’s proclivity towards the unconventional.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this De Bethune DB10 Réédition Spéciale will be subject to 20% VAT.

Closer look

This De Bethune DB10W is in very good condition overall, with a few superficial marks throughout consistent with minimal wear. The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.