The DB28XP Kind of Blue - De Bethune's new masterpiece

In what the company describes as a marriage between tradition and innovation, Swiss watchmaker De Bethune unveiled their new masterpiece, the DB28XP Kind of Blue. A symphony between the slim and elegant DB28XP and the charming DB28 Kind of Blue, the watch was unveiled at the 2023 Geneva Watch Days, held between August 29 and September 2.

With a limited release of just 25 pieces, the DB28XP Kind of Blue is set to be one of the more premier offerings from De Bethune and undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking in their collection. So, what makes it stand out?

Case

The case of the DB28XP Kind of Blue is quite easily its main attraction. Crafted from polished blue-tinged grade 5 titanium, the case measures 43 mm in diameter and just 8.55 mm in thickness, an impressive feat for a feature-packed timepiece. Its lightweight nature is immediately noticeable; a feature De Bethune has mastered over the years.

Form doesn't reign over functionality in the design of the case, which also prioritizes wearer comfort. The uniquely curved caseband contours to the wrist's natural shape and is adorned with a Microlight texture that seamlessly extends to its outer edge. This intricate detailing, especially without any visible geometrical elements, showcases the 21-year-old Swiss company's craftmanship. That's something they were keen to boast about in their press release. Complementing the well designed case, an alligator strap comes fitted with a titanium buckle.

Dial

Taking on an unmistakable deep and luminous blue aesthetic, the DB28XP Kind of Blue's dial offers a fusion of space, time, and light, playing with shadows and light while adding an unmatched depth and architectural feel. Entirely composed of Microlight, the dial offers a contemporary take on the traditional guilloché technique.

The blue guilloche takes up the entirety of the dial space, with the area devoid of any subdials whatsoever. De Betheune's iconic Star Trek-like delta bridge stands out prominently on the watch's face. Not only does it add a touch of elegance, but it also provides a window into the watch's inner mechanics, revealing the twin barrels beneath.

Movement

De Betheune's in-house DB2115v12 caliber powers the DB28XP Kind of Blue. Operating at 28,800 vibrations/hour, this hand-finished movement, with its dual barrels, boasts an impressive 6-day power reserve, remarkable for a movement this thin.

Comprising 247 parts and 36 jewels crammed in a diameter of just 30 mm, the movement is both intricate and robust, but most importantly, thin and lightweight. Completing the setup, a transparent sapphire glass case back lays bare the movement's components for all to see while a patented triple shock-absorbing system absorbs any impact.

With only 25 pieces on offer, the DB28XP Kind of Blue stands as a rare gem in the world of timekeeping. A testament to De Bethune's craftsmanship and innovation, the watch embodies exclusivity and elegance, two factors that should place it high on the list of priorities for any horologist looking to add a truly unique timepiece to their collection.