Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Hong Kong, Oct 26, 2024
LOT 138
DE BETHUNE, REF. DB 14R, TRIP MINUTE-REPEATING MYSTERY HOURS, PIECE UNIQUE, NO.001, 18K PINK GOLD
HKD 600,000 - 1,000,000
EUR 71,000 - 118,000 / CHF 66,000 - 110,000 / USD 78,000 - 130,000
Sold: HKD 1,250,000
A piece unique, extremely fine, large, trip-minute-repeating, 18K pink gold wristwatch with two barrels, «mystery» hours, Satiné and hand-guilloche silver with painted radial Roman numerals, outer minute track with Arabic five-minute numerals.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: |
|
Case: 2-8 |
Very good Slightly scratched |
Movement: 2* |
Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 2-01 |
Very good HANDS Original |
Brand De Bethune
Model Trip Minute-Repeating Mystery Hours
Reference DB 14R
Year Made in 2003s
Case No. No.001
Bracelet 18K pink gold De Bethune pin buckle
Diameter 42mm.
Weight 102gr. (approx.)
Signature dial, case and movement
Accessories certificate of authenticity
Notes
The De Bethune DB14R Trip Minute Repeater & Mystery Hours No. 001 is a pinnacle of horological artistry, crafted in 2003 as a piece unique. This exceptional timepiece, housed in a large 18K pink gold case, showcases De Bethune’s innovative prowess and commitment to haute horlogerie. At its heart lies a complex movement featuring two barrels, powering two remarkable complications. The trip minute repeater, an intricate chiming mechanism, sounds the time on demand with distinct tones for hours, quarters, and minutes. Complementing this traditional complication is De Bethune’s signature «mystery hours» display, where the hour indication appears to float enigmatically on the dial, adding a touch of modern horological magic.
As the inaugural piece (No. 001) of this reference, it holds significant historical value. The watch is accompanied by an 18K pink gold De Bethune buckle and a certificate of authenticity, underscoring its provenance and exclusivity.
As the inaugural piece (No. 001) of this reference, it holds significant historical value. The watch is accompanied by an 18K pink gold De Bethune buckle and a certificate of authenticity, underscoring its provenance and exclusivity.