DB25 Kind of Two Jumping GMT

An edition limited by the human scale of our workshops

Two dials, one movement: the DB Kind of Two Jumping GMT combines two identities – aesthetic and technical – in one exceptionally accurate gesture. Freedom, function, perfection: De Bethune.

Double-sided timepieces have been on the scene for over two centuries. Appearing during the Age of Enlightenment and inspired by astronomy, decorative arts and mechanical engineering, they made it possible to display a greater number of functions. From multifaced tower and table clocks during the Renaissance, this solution was then applied to pocket watches and even iconic models such as the Leroy 01 (1900).

Two faces, two time zones: the GMT and its technical complexity

True to the spirit of the Maison, the apparent simplicity and elegance of this timepiece conceal a mechanism imbued with rare sophistication, designed to offer a GMT function that is both simple and intuitive. Organised according to whether the front or back dial is selected, a complex system of gears and pinions ensures that the hands continue to rotate clockwise, regardless of which side is chosen.

This entirely reversible model can be worn on either side, depending on the wearer’s mood or chosen time zone.

“Designing a watch that tells two stories – on two dials and with dual-time display revealed by one smooth move – was one of the most stimulating challenges of the Kind of Two Jumping GMT, making duality its creative principle.” − Denis Flageollet

Contemporary side: home-time display

The contemporary front dial showcases the sophisticated mechanism and provides time reading centred on the balance wheel at 6 o’clock, with the minutes scale around the rim. Meticulous work involving layering polished and domed shapes, as well as microlight, shotpeened and snailed finishes, reveals the great care devoted to the decoration of this calibre.

Despite the limited space, this watch radiates a sense of volume and depth, incorporating both GMT and jumping-second complications, notably presented by two central gold wheels. A centrally positioned deltoid-shaped titanium bridge crafted on several levels contributes to the overall stability and harmony.

The hours and minutes markers as well as the mirror-polished blued steel hands feature a satin-brushed steel central inlay, adding a touch of blue and subtle light effects, ensuring perfect legibility.

Functional, accurate double-sided case

The elegantly technical 43 mm case in polished grade 5 titanium is equipped with floating lugs specially designed for the DB Kind of Two. This system enables the watch to be positioned perfectly on the wrist and to adapt to its movements, while also providing easy access to the two dials with a smooth, accurate swivel. Consisting of 42 components made from stainless materials such as surgical steel and titanium, this ingenious and reliable micro-mechanism is able to withstand external aggressions such as water, humidity, temperature variations and continuous contact with the skin.

Classic side: GMT display

The traditionally-inspired reverse side presents a domed anthracite dial with a guilloché centre, providing an understated reading of the time. The manually polished curved 5N gold hands exquisitely match the gilded hour-markers, while the polished titanium indicator elegantly marks the mechanical seconds jump.

Clever simplified adjustment

Despite its complex design, this model is extremely user-friendly. The functions are arranged into a double front/back display for the hours and minutes. Using the crown in position 3, the collector sets their reference time – known as home time – indicated by the hours and minutes hands on the contemporary side. They set their second time zone by pulling the crown to the second position on the classic GMT side.

A symbol of versatility and creativity, this double-sided watch vividly demonstrates De Bethune’s technical excellence and its artisans’ remarkable work in terms of materials, colours and light. Its dual display boasting contrasting contemporary and classic identities reflects harmony between tradition and modernity. The whole is supported by a supple lined alligator leather strap.