he DB25 collection continues its transformation with a new 40mm edition of the Starry Varius. In order to preserve the refinement of its original design, this trimmed-down interpretation required complete rethinking of this timepiece’s aesthetic balance.

In exploring the colour spectrum of natural titanium oxidation using a thermal process unique to the Manufacture, De Bethune has opted for a warm, intense tone to depict the nocturnal spectacle of a volcanic eruption. Artisans in the L’Auberson workshops combine exceptional expertise and extreme meticulous care in hand-decorating the mirror-polished titanium dials. Their dexterity enables them to set each white gold pin in varyingly sized micro-perforations, bringing to life a poetic depiction of the starry sky. Using laser-beam micro-milling, a Milky Way motif is then revealed by applying 24-karat gold leaf. Like every starlit dial from the Maison, this new sky can be personalised for a specific geographical location and date.

The DB25xs Starry Varius is available in an ultra-lightweight mirror-polished grade 5 titanium case and in a more classic rose gold version. Each is fitted with an extra-supple double alligator leather strap.

According to Denis Flageollet: "It is important to maintain a beautiful dial aperture so that the observer can be fully immersed in the star-studded sky, thereby preserving the aura of the Starry Varius.”

On the reverse side, a sapphire caseback with double anti-reflective treatment reveals the impeccable craftsmanship of the DB2005 hand-wound calibre incorporating the latest De Bethune technologies. Equipped with a balance spring featuring a flat terminal curve, a silicon escape wheel and a shock-absorbing system, the DB25xs Starry Varius also incorporates the Manufacture’s latest titanium and white gold balance wheel.

Price: CHF 65,000 (titanium), CHF 70,000 (rose gold)

www.debethune.ch