• De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain Where Bold Color Meets Horological Mastery
  • De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain

    Where Bold Color Meets Horological Mastery

    Hourstriker Staff
    Words by: Hourstriker Staff
    April 10, 2024
  • The De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain watch is a stunning timepiece that is sure to turn heads. The watch is made of high-quality materials and is sure to last for years to come. The watch is also water resistant to 50 meters, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a watch that is both stylish and functional.

    De Bethune is a Swiss watchmaker that was founded in 2002 by David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet. The company is known for its innovative designs and its use of high-tech materials. The DB28xs Purple Rain is a perfect example of De Bethune's commitment to both of these principles.

    Courtesy of De Bethune
    Courtesy of De Bethune


    The watch is named for the way that the light hits the titanium case, which has been treated to create a purple hue. The color is absolutely stunning in person, and it is sure to get compliments from everyone who sees it. The watch also features a random guilloché dial, which is a type of decorative engraving that is unique to De Bethune. The hands and hour markers are made of polished titanium, and they are easy to read against the purple dial.

    The DB28xs Purple Rain is powered by the De Bethune caliber DB2005, which is a mechanical movement that is wound by hand. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back, and it is decorated with beautiful Geneva stripes. The caliber DB2005 is a chronometer-certified movement, which means that it is accurate to within -4/+6 seconds per day.

    The watch comes on a black alligator leather strap, which complements the purple case nicely. The strap is alligator lined for comfort and durability. The DB28xs Purple Rain is a truly unique and special watch. It is a perfect example of De Bethune's commitment to innovation and design.

    The DB28xs Purple Rain isn't just a watch – it's a work of art, a testament to the relentless innovation that embodies the very spirit of De Bethune. Let's delve deeper and dissect the elements that make this watch a masterpiece of modern horology.

    Courtesy of De Bethune
    Courtesy of De Bethune


    Nestled within its mesmerizing purple case lies the caliber DB2005, the beating heart of the DB28xs. This mechanical marvel isn't just about telling time; it's about harnessing the delicate dance of gears and springs with utmost precision. De Bethune's mastery is evident in the meticulous finishing and decoration adorning each of its 160 components.

    One glance at the movement reveals a captivating play of light and textures. The bridges and plates, adorned with traditional techniques like Côtes de Genève or circular graining, catch the light, creating a sense of depth and visual intrigue.

    But the true magic of the DB2005 lies in its technical innovations. The self-regulating twin barrel system, a De Bethune invention from 2004, ensures a constant flow of energy to the movement, leading to enhanced chronometric precision. This translates to your DB28xs Purple Rain maintaining exceptional accuracy throughout its impressive 6-day power reserve.

    The key to the DB2005's accuracy is De Bethune's mastery of the balance components. The titanium balance wheel, with its white gold inserts (a De Bethune patent from 2016), is meticulously engineered to achieve optimal performance. Its lightweight construction makes it less susceptible to shocks and temperature variations, ensuring that the watch keeps its beat with unwavering consistency.

    Courtesy of De Bethune
    Courtesy of De Bethune


    But De Bethune didn't stop there. They invented the "De Bethune" balance spring with a flat terminal curve (patented in 2006). This ingenious design improves the concentric development of the spring, further enhancing the precision of its oscillations – essentially making your watch more accurate in everyday wear.

    To minimize the impact of external disturbances, De Bethune integrated the triple pare-chute shock absorber system (another De Bethune invention from 2005). This sophisticated mechanism acts like a miniature cushion, protecting the delicate balance components from jolts and ensuring your DB28xs Purple Rain's accuracy remains uncompromised.

    The DB28xs Purple Rain's case is more than just a protective shell; it's a statement piece. Crafted from polished grade 5 titanium, its 38.7mm diameter strikes a perfect balance between boldness and wearability. Its curved surfaces, flowing lines, and the iconic floating lugs (a De Bethune patent from 2006) create a sense of refined fluidity.

    But the true visual feast lies in the case's unique purple hue. This isn't the result of paint or coating. It's achieved through a meticulous process of thermal oxidation of the titanium. Master watchmakers at De Bethune precisely control heat to transform the surface of the metal, creating a captivating spectrum of colors.

    The process is akin to alchemy, where meticulous control and a touch of artistry are imperative. The purple hue isn't just a fleeting flash; the oxidation changes the titanium's properties, making the color remarkably durable and fade-resistant.

    Courtesy of De Bethune
    Courtesy of De Bethune


    The dial, a symphony of textures and hues, is where the DB28xs Purple Rain truly takes center stage. The central purple titanium plate sets the backdrop for the delicate random guilloché pattern. This hand-engraved technique creates light-catching textures, adding a touch of vintage charm and visual dynamism to the dial.

    The hours and minutes ring, adorned with transferred Arabic numerals, circles the guilloché centerpiece, offering exceptional legibility. De Bethune has meticulously polished them, ensuring a clear and crisp reading of the time.

    Adding a touch of celestial wonder, the dial features a starry sky adorned with white gold stars. It's a testament to De Bethune's dedication to crafting timepieces that evoke both precision and a sense of poetic beauty.

    Completing the DB28xs Purple Rain's sophisticated ensemble is an extra-supple alligator leather strap with a canvas lining. Its deep black color perfectly offsets the vibrant purple of the case, offering a touch of visual contrast. The combination of premium materials and expert craftsmanship ensures the strap remains supple and comfortable on the wrist for years to come.

    Courtesy of De Bethune
    Courtesy of De Bethune


    The De Bethune DB28xs Purple Rain is more than a watch; it's a statement of individuality, a testament to the unwavering pursuit of innovation and a celebration of exquisite craftsmanship. From the thermally oxidized purple titanium case to the hand-finished movement, every detail reflects an unflinching dedication to horological excellence.

    Whether you're a seasoned watch collector or someone seeking a timepiece that transcends the ordinary, the DB28xs Purple Rain is sure to resonate. It's a watch that sparks conversations, that evokes a sense of wonder, and that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
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