De Bethune unveils the DB28xs Dark Sand, a new interpretation of the DB28xs Steel Wheels showcasing the Manufacture’s research into materials. This compact creation clad in matt anthracite zirconium embodies a dense, more mineral and resolutely contemporary aesthetic. Featuring a crown at 12 o’clock, the DB28xs Dark Sand retains the aesthetic signatures and open architecture of the DB28xs Steel Wheels, while adopting a radically different approach. Light is no longer merely revealed but is instead absorbed, sculpted, then reflected in subtle touches, shaped by the finishes and volumes. Featuring a crown at 12 o’clock, the DB28xs Dark Sand retains the aesthetic signatures and open architecture of the DB28xs Steel Wheels, while adopting a radically different approach. Light is no longer merely revealed but is instead absorbed, sculpted, then reflected in subtle touches, shaped by the finishes and volumes. Matt anthracite zirconium: a quest for materials and longevity Pursuing its research into materials and processes, De Bethune presents zirconium – a metal featured in its collections since 2012 – as a natural and sustainable alternative due to its distinctive properties and colour. The metal’s hardness, along with its stable oxidation that remains unaltered by atmospheric conditions, are key assets ensuring the resistance and longevity of a watch case. Here, the zirconium features a black satin-brushed finish, creating an understated, yet radical completely matt effect through which the material appears to capture shadows as much as light. “Dark Sand”: open architecture, exceptional hand-finished details Offering a fascinating window onto the movement’s contemporary architecture, the dial retains the openworked spirit of the DB28xs Steel Wheels. It is distinguished by a harmonious composition of hemispherical and concave shapes, enlivened by a captivating interplay of dark-toned depths and textures. The finely structured dial base in black sandblasted titanium provides both contrast and a mineral effect recalling the density and lustre of volcanic sand. The hours and minutes track in circular satin-finished black titanium is punctuated by polished mauve titanium hour-markers echoing the hands, contributing to the overall purplish touch and ensuring excellent legibility. At the centre, the anthracite deltoid-shaped bridge – De Bethune’s iconic signature – adorned with a barleycorn guilloché pattern stands out as a raised element that appears almost suspended in mid-air. Its bevelled, sandblasted and polished edges create a multitude of material transitions, forming a palette ranging from anthracite grey to deep black. Top-flight horological technique visible from both front and back The DB2115V13 mechanical hand-wound movement beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour is designed to deliver exceptional precision timekeeping performance. Constantly updated, it incorporates several of the Manufacture’s patents and technical innovations. Optimised for temperature variations and air penetration, the titanium balance-wheel with its white gold weights ensures inertia and regulation, while the De Bethune balance-spring with its unique flat terminal curve guarantees unrivalled accuracy. A silicon escape-wheel enhances energy efficiency and contributes to the calibre’s power, protected by a triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system. On the reverse, the screw-down caseback is graced with a beautiful anthracite microlight finish, complemented by the mauve/golden tones of the linear six-day power reserve indicator, powered by a self-regulating twin barrel – a De Bethune innovation. Comfort and suppleness on the wrist The DB28xs Dark Sand remains beautifully light and ergonomic with its 39 mm case, 8 mm thickness and floating lugs – a patented system that adapts to the size and movements of the wrist – crafted from matt anthracite zirconium. Paired with a leather-lined fabric strap and a matching zirconium pin buckle, this new model fits seamlessly into the DB28 collection, limited by the resolutely human scale of De Bethune’s workshops. With the DB28xs Dark Sand, the independent Manufacture offers a more nocturnal, mineral variation on the DB28xs Steel Wheels. Its novelty is expressed first and foremost through the material: tough, durable matt zirconium dedicated to its open architecture and high-level mechanics. An interpretation highlighting De Bethune’s technical advances and the meticulous finishing work of its artisans, custodians of centuries-old expertise.
