De Bethune · DB28xs Starry Seas
The movement in detail
A six-day power reserve usually suggests a large case. DB28xs Starry Seas measures 38.7 mm across and 7.4 mm thick. Beneath its wavy blue dial sits the manually wound DB2005 with twin barrels. This is a technical examination of the existing DB28XSTIS3; the manufacturer’s current product page does not give the precise original announcement date.
EnlargeWave-like guilloché on blued titanium and white-gold stars.
© De Bethune · SourceTwo barrels deliver the stated six days, or 144 hours after full winding. Frequency has not been reduced to a leisurely 3 Hz: the balance runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4 Hz. The 30 mm movement contains 160 components and 27 jewels. The benefit for the owner is straightforward: when rotating several watches, the De Bethune can be set aside for a few days. There is no automatic rotor, so its energy reserve must be restored with the crown.
The regulating assembly is more interesting than a simple frequency figure. Its titanium balance has white-gold inserts; the manufacturer relates the design to temperature changes and air resistance. It works alongside the proprietary spring with a flat terminal curve and a silicon escape wheel. The triple pare-chute system protects the assembly against shocks. However, a list of patents does not replace accuracy testing of an individual watch: the official sheet gives no daily tolerance.
EnlargeDB2005 through the sapphire back: the balance and bridges of the manual calibre.
© De Bethune · SourceThe case and floating lugs are Grade 5 titanium. The lugs change angle relative to the case, allowing the strap to follow the wrist; actual fit should still be assessed by trying it on. The blued titanium dial has irregular guilloché and white-gold stars, while the hands show only hours and minutes. The technical sheet specifies 3 ATM and an alligator strap. No price is published on the public product page, so current pricing and terms for the buyer’s market must be requested from the brand.
