De Bethune

In 2002, David Zanetta and Denis Flageollet founded the independent watch manufacture De Bethune, named after an 18th-century French horological icon. The Swiss brand is known for its avant-garde fusion of classical watchmaking and futuristic design. From movement to case to decoration – all components are produced by hand in the brand’s own workshop in L’Auberson. Design hallmarks of De Bethune include delta-shaped cases, deep-blue titanium surfaces created through a proprietary thermal process, and black zirconium. The manufacture is particularly celebrated for technical innovations such as patented spherical moon-phase displays, floating barrels and advanced shock-protection systems. The DB28, acclaimed for its visionary design and ergonomic architecture, is considered emblematic of the brand. Through innovative materials and mechanical solutions, De Bethune has expanded the boundaries of traditional watchmaking and developed a distinctive aesthetic language.