A unique variant of the DB28 Steel Wheels*, distinguished by its monochromatic appearance, entirely in shades of grey. Completed in 2020, the watch is accompanied by its original box and papers, as well as a letter from De Bethune confirming its unique status. The watch is an elegant interpretation of their futuristic aesthetics as well as their approach.

This uniqueSteel Wheelsvariant was completed at the request of a private collector in October 2020, with the aim of creating an entirely monochromatic, greyscale version of the original. Building on the design of the firstSteel Wheels, which was already limited to 25 pieces, its unique details include a grey spherical moon and grey chapter ring. The watch speaks to De Bethune's rare position their vision in creating these cutting-edge pieces while accommodating the occasional intriguing request from a client.

The movement forms a core part of the design and aesthetics of the Steel Wheels. The finishing found on the manually-woundDB 2115V4 is of the highest quality, with the components showing a remarkable level of hand-finishing - fromDe Bethune'ssignature Ctes de Bethunefound on the triangle-shaped bridge to the concentric graining and sharp, polished-bevels seen through the sapphire caseback. Unlike otherDB28models, the triangular bridge and parts of the dial are skeletonised on theSteel Wheels, revealing the gears underneath. The barrels and ratchet wheels are also open-worked, further exposing the inner mechanics. Through the two self-regulating barrels, theDB28 Steel Wheelsachieves six days of power reserve.

To better protect its workings, theDB 2115V4 calibre also boasts a triple-parachute shock-absorbing system, which is unique toDe Bethunecalibres. The bridge of the triple parachute is secured by a spring-based system, protecting the heart of the movement. The various architectural elements are connected by three jewels, thereby absorbing shocks and ensuring precise re-positioning of the bridge after displacement. Bringing a touch of colour to the monochromatic design, the balance wheel is a blued titanium web, set with individual white gold masses. This design helps to achieve as much thermal stability as possible, with minimum aerodynamic drag.

Returning to the dial, we see that the grey chapter ring features spherical hour indices, made out of polished titanium, which provide an intuitive reference to read the time. Above this, the skeletonised hands build on the futuristic styling of theDB28, creating depth and preserving legibility. A spherical moonis subtly placed at six oclock - two halves of metal comprise the sphere, both of them in contrasting shades of grey. With a design that speaks for itself, theDe Bethunename is absent from the dial.

If sold within the United Kingdom, this De Bethune DB28 Steel Wheels Unique Piece will be subject to 20% VAT

Closer look

Condition

This De Bethune DB28 Steel Wheels Unique Piece is in excellent overall condition. The case and lugs show light signs of wear through only on the very surface of the material. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections and have been well preserved.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.