De Bethune DW Seeking Perfect: A Timepiece With Polished Meteorite From The Depths of Time

De Bethune DW5 SP is a one-of-a-kind forged piece, the metal of its case specifically made from the iron ore found just a stone’s throw from the De Bethune luxury manufacture.

The world of haute horlogerie is eagerly awaiting one of the most unique and extraordinary watches ever created – the De Bethune DW Seeking Perfect, designed exclusively for the prestigious Only Watch 2023 charity auction.

This masterpiece of craftsmanship is a one-of-a-kind forged piece, with its metal case made from the very iron ore found near the De Bethune manufacture, adding an unparalleled sense of authenticity to the timepiece.

Let’s delve into the fascinating journey that led to the creation of this exceptional watch. The De Bethune Manufacture, an independent watchmaker founded in 2002, has been making waves in the industry by developing and producing everything in-house. With an impressive repertoire of 30 calibers, 30 world firsts, several patents, and around 150 unique luxurious models, De Bethune’s timepieces have earned acclaim and recognition in major international competitions.

For Only Watch 2023, De Bethune has taken inspiration from the depths of time, crafting a watch that exudes a cosmic connection. The dial and spherical moon of the DW Seeking Perfect are made from a polished blued meteorite, hailing from the crucible of the universe itself. This celestial material not only makes the timepiece visually striking but also carries great significance as a rare and precious material to be used in watchmaking.

In a remarkable and laborious process, Denis Flageollet, the mastermind behind this creation, sought to rediscover ancient iron and steel-making techniques. Using iron ore sourced from L’Auberson, he personally forged the various components in his blast furnace. The intricate patterns on the watch’s surface originated from the different parts of his meticulous metal preparation, skillfully brought together to form a cohesive and unique design.

The heart of this horological marvel beats with the Calibre DB2149, a tourbillon movement created specifically for this one-of-a-kind timepiece. This movement, with 356 components and 35 rubies, boasts a remarkable power reserve of 4 days, thanks to a self-regulating double barrel innovation from De Bethune. The balance wheel, made of titanium with white gold inserts, is optimized to handle temperature changes and air penetration. The escapement wheel is crafted from silicon, further enhancing the watch’s precision and reliability.

One of the standout features of the DW Seeking Perfect is the spherical moon-phase indication, a patented innovation from De Bethune, boasting a remarkable precision of 1 lunar day every 1,112 years.

The 30-second De Bethune tourbillon in silicon and titanium adds another layer of complexity and artistry to the timekeeping mechanism, operating at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour.

The case of the watch is hand-forged from Damascus iron and steel, sourced from the very iron ores of Auberson, adding a tangible connection to nature and the elements. Its dimensions, with a length of 58mm, width of 47mm, and thickness of 16mm, create a bold and captivating presence on the wrist.

As a final touch of elegance, the De Bethune DW Seeking Perfect is paired with an extra-supple alligator leather bracelet, featuring an alligator lining and secured with a pin buckle in polished grade 5 titanium.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this timepiece is the QR code engraved on the back, offering the future owner access to unique and personalized information about their watch.

This exclusive feature adds a touch of modernity and interactivity to this otherwise timeless creation.

The De Bethune DW Seeking Perfect for Only Watch 2023 is not just a watch; it’s a piece of history, a celebration of human ingenuity and connection with the cosmos. Its blend of exceptional craftsmanship, innovative technology, and the use of meteorite material makes it an unparalleled and highly sought-after horological masterpiece. As watch enthusiasts and collectors await the opportunity to bid for this unique creation at the Only Watch 2023 auction, it stands as a testament to De Bethune’s dedication to seeking perfection in every tick and tock.