First Look De Bethune Opens Mavericks of Time Dubai with a One-of-a-Kind Masterpiece

De Bethune unveils a one-of-a-kind timepiece at the Mavericks of Time exhibition, organized by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons at the Museum of the Future in Dubai on November 9 and 10. This unique event celebrates the creativity and boldness of independent watchmaking, and De Bethune introduces their creation with a powerful statement: “The Manufacture is sending a time capsule bearing Love: a universal message of hope for future generations,” as noted in their press release.

The DW5 was a natural choice for this project, which originated in 2022 with the official opening of the museum. Its futuristic, aerodynamic design and the creative space provided by its case align perfectly with the exhibition’s theme. First conceptualized in 2014 as an exploration of form and material, the DW5 embodies De Bethune’s iconic deltoid motif, an aesthetic code first seen in the original Dream Watch, linking the Manufacture’s various creations.

With its innovative use of materials, finishes, and original techniques, the DW5 opens new horizons while preserving its identity, strongly influenced by aeronautics and space exploration. Named the DW5 Al-Amal, this singular timepiece draws inspiration from the illuminated calligraphic motifs on the Museum of the Future's exterior, delivering a universal message through Arabic calligraphy.

The case, crafted entirely from mirror-polished titanium, features engravings of six distinct Arabic calligraphies for the word "Love." Reflecting different shades of this feeling, whether friendly, passionate, carnal, spiritual, or unconditional, each calligraphy presents a unique expression of love. Carefully chosen words such as ‘Al-Amal’ (hope), friendship, desire, heart, passion, and faith honor the art of Arabic calligraphy, transforming writing into channels of beauty and emotion. 

The case’s dimensions are a bold 58 mm in length, 47 mm in width, and 16 mm in thickness, providing an ample canvas for intricate details. A blue sapphire cabochon on the crown adds a luxurious finishing touch.

The unique dial, positioned at 3 o’clock for optimal readability, features an elegant jumping-hour aperture framed in blued grade 5 titanium. Minutes are displayed with precision on a rotating disc, enhancing the dial’s visual appeal. Completing the dial is a spherical moon-phase indicator, crafted from palladium and flamed-blued steel, adding a touch of celestial sophistication.

Inside, the hand-wound Caliber DB2144V2, developed exclusively for the curved, asymmetrical case of the DW5, illustrates Denis Flageollet’s ambition to expand the aesthetic boundaries of timekeeping. The compact 30 mm movement comprises 320 intricately arranged parts. Its titanium balance wheel, with white gold inserts, pairs with De Bethune’s signature balance spring featuring a flat terminal curve, all stabilized by a triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system for enhanced durability. Expertly hand-finished and decorated, the movement offers an impressive 5-day power reserve, operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

This one-of-a-kind masterpiece is presented on an alligator leather strap with a polished grade 5 titanium pin buckle, priced at CHF 240,000 (approximately 1,000,000 AED).

For more information visit the official website of De bethune.