de bethune encloses DW5 SP timepiece with meteorite shell forged from iron and steel

iron DW5 SP by De Bethune

De Bethune has unveiled their latest timepiece, a metal interpretation of their renowned Dream Watch 5 model, enveloped in a mysterious silhouette. This one-of-a-kind creation, known as the DW5 SP, features a futuristic design crafted from Damascus iron and steel sourced from the Auberson mine. Its shield-shaped envelope boasts a polished blue meteorite, and near the crown, there is a small opening adorned with a cabochon blue sapphire, providing a glimpse of the time.

The introduction of the DW5 SP marks De Bethune’s one-off, limited edition contribution to the upcoming Only Watch auction. Only Watch is a community-led initiative and charitable auction dedicated to raising funds for research on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic disease that affects approximately 1 in every 3,500 boys, gradually weakening their muscles over time. Previous articles have highlighted unique designs also participating in the Only Watch 2023 auction, such as Bulgari’s first Octo Finissimo Tourbillon timepiece and the collaborative work of Takashi Murakami & Hublot, the MP-15 watch.

all images by De Bethune

The Artistry Behind the De Bethune’s new Timepiece

Denis Flageollet, a highly skilled watchmaker and co-founder of the Swiss luxury watch brand De Bethune (see more here), has meticulously crafted the case of the timepiece, aiming to reconnect with ancient iron and steel-making techniques. Using iron ore sourced from L’Auberson, he carefully roasted and crushed the ore into powder, reducing it in a low furnace with glowing charcoal to create a solid metal mass. The material was then forged into a compact form resembling the desired shape for machining. This intricate process spanned several weeks, with extensive research over several months. The De Bethune team dedicated their efforts to creating a unique tourbillon movement for this watch. Its craftsmanship can be admired through the transparent case back of the watch. Meanwhile, the watch comes with soft alligator leather straps and a titanium pin buckle for comfortable wear.

The DW5 SP is estimated to be auctioned for 220,000 – 270,000 CHF (around $245,000 – $301,000USD) in November at Only Watch (see more here).

the watch comes with soft alligator leather straps and a titanium pin buckle for comfortable wear