De Bethune has advanced its study of the single-push chronograph with the DB Eight. Although the DB28 Maxichrono is De Bethune’s most unique chronograph, their first watch with this feature – the DB1 – was a standard two-counter mono-pusher chronograph that embodied the elegant 20th-century chronograph tradition. De Bethune has utilized their technical and aesthetic knowledge to create a chronograph that meets its high standards, as they pursue the realization of an idea that was initiated two decades ago.
Pared-Down Design
The DB Eight was created with a focus on sophistication and a clean, harmonious design. Denis Flageollet and Claire Wolf collaborated to develop a classic guilloché dial that is refined to the highest degree. They also created a new chronograph caliber that features a counter at 6 o’clock to maximize its size, ensuring that the 60-minute indication is highly visible. When the chronograph is reset, the tail of the chronograph hand discreetly overlaps with the minute’s counter hand, resulting in a symmetrical and distinguished appearance. The watch’s 42mm size is enhanced by the perfectly designed maxi dial, which is encircled by a delicate bezel and a railway-type outer seconds track. As a result, the watch is both elegant and easy to read.
DB3000, 31st In-House Calibre
Denis Flageollet and Claire Wolf opted to create a classic column-wheel mechanism with an instantaneous minutes counter, which is a remarkable technical accomplishment for a single-pusher caliber with a 60-minute counter. The teeth of the wheel are extremely thin, which presents a significant technical challenge.
Despite the traditional nature of the caliber, the functions of the technology are at the forefront of the knowledge gained by the Manufacture. All of the components in the escapement and balance are derived from the finest elements found in De Bethune calibers, including the patented balance spring with a flat terminal curve, titanium balance with white gold inertia blocks, and the silicon escape wheel.
Grade 5 Titanium Case
The DB Eight is a watch that pays tribute to the traditions of Manufacture De Bethune and the history of classical watchmaking while also integrating technical advancements, cutting-edge materials, elegant design, and a balanced movement. The objective was to improve performance and enhance the experience for devoted owners. The updated DB Eight is a versatile timepiece that is ideal for daily wear, combining the cherished classic design with new features, embodying the pursuit of performance and aesthetic excellence that is inherent in all De Bethune watches.
De Bethune DB Eight retails for S$136,000 (with GST)