De Bethune DB16R for $262,242 for sale from a Trusted Seller on Chrono24 (2024)

Basic Info

Crocodile skin

The item shows minor signs of wear, such as small, intangible scratches.

No original box, no original papers

Caliber

Case

Bracelet/strap

Crocodile skin

Functions

Other

Description

The 43mm rose gold case has a classic profile, and features the signature De Bethune traits, with a finely finished, high polished case and solid lugs with ogival, or bullet-shaped, ends. In more futuristic iterations, we see a different version of this feature, with hollowed out lugs and differing sizes but retaining the distinctive ogival shape.

The dial is elegantly balanced, as placed at 12 o'clock is De Bethune's three-dimensional, spherical moon phase indication and accompanying stars dotted throughout the sub-dial. Directly below that, at 6 o'clock, is the date indicator sub-dial, with a slightly raised chapter ring with blue indices representing the dates. The day and month indicators are placed at 9 and 3 o'clock respectively, in small rectangular apertures that are relatively unobtrusive, with lettering in blue. Around the rim of the dial is a matte chapter ring where the blue Roman hour numerals are printed, in addition to seconds indications. The chapter ring is raised from the rest of the dial, giving it further depth, while a sunburst pattern can be seen across the centre of the dial, radiating from the moonphase indication, providing added texture.

This DB16 is powered by the calibre DB2509, which consists of 499 parts, and is packed with De Bethune innovations such as their self-regulating twin barrel, a silicon annular balance with a white gold ring, a balance spring with a flat terminal curve, retrograde moon indication, and tourbillon with silicon and titanium escape wheel, in addition to the deadbeat seconds and spherical moon phase indication, which are placed on the front of the dial. A power reserve can be seen at the top of the movement, with 4 days of power when fully wound.

The movement is visually dominated by the skeletonised, delta-shaped bridge, mirrored by a smaller blued delta piece placed on top, as well as screws topped with rubies. A tourbillon can be seen on the left, held down by a striking, heat-blued bridge and the silicon and titanium cage below. Putting the tourbillon on the back, rather than the front of the movement, is a fairly traditional placement, while a retrograde moonphase indicator is below the main bridge, which facilitates the setting of the main spherical moonphase. The bridge and the baseplate wear Côtes de Bethune, the brands signature mirrored style of striping. Additionally, beautiful finishing can be found throughout, with sharp anglage, black polishing, and other form all coming together to create a layered, highly textured impression.

Condition
This De Bethune DB16R is in very good overall condition. The case and lugs show light superficial marks, only on the very surface of the material, more specifically a scratch between the lugs at six o'clock, which is partially hidden by the strap. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections and have been well preserved. The hallmarks on both the caseback rim and buckle are crisp and well defined.

Warranty
The watch comes with a two-year, limited warranty from us, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.