Our Take

Describing Denis Flageollet as a “watchmaker” is a big simplification. The man is indeed a watchmaker, alongside many other things including a metalworker (he forges his own alloys), a fundamental researcher and inventor (he continues to work with and optimize balance springs), and an artist (he is laser-focused on exploring color and shape in his timepieces). Fortunately for admirers of this modern polymath, De Bethune continues to release timepieces that embody the limits of Denis Flageollet’s creativity – the DBD Evergreen.

Released for Dubai Watch Week 2023, the DBD Evergreen is a bold and contemporary re-interpretation of the brand’s original DBD from 2006. Featuring a polished grade-5 titanium case and a vibrant evergreen Côtes de Genève decoration, the day of the week, date, and month are presented linearly through Art-Deco-style apertures at 12 o’clock while jumping hours and scrolling minutes appear opposite each other on the lower half of the dial.

As one would expect, the caseback matches the standards set by the exquisite layout and decoration of the dial. Powered by mechanical hand-wound Caliber DB2044 operating at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the DBD Evergreen is equipped with the latest titanium balance with white gold inserts as well as the triple pare-chute shock-absorbing system. Collectors can examine the subtle differences that exist between the Côtes de Genève on the dial and the brand’s own Côte de Bethune on the bridge of the movement. Issued in a 20-piece numbered limited edition with an updated, slimmer 42.6mm by 9.4mm profile, the DBD Evergreen comes with an extra-supple black alligator strap.

Yet another tribute to the creativity, innovation, and art of watchmaking, De Bethune’s DBD Evergreen does not disappoint.