De Bethune is creating a one-of-a-kind timepiece for the Mavericks of Time exhibition organised by Ahmed Sediqqi & Sons at the Museum of the Future (MOTF) in Dubai on 9 and 10 November. For this event, celebrating the creativity and boldness of independent watchmaking, the Manufacture is sending a time capsule bearing Love: a universal message of hope for future generations.
The DW5 was the natural choice for this project that was launched in 2022 at the time of the official museum opening, as much for its futuristic, aerodynamic design as for the creative space its case provides.
Designed in 2014 as a continuation of research into shapes and materials, the DW5 becomes De Bethune’s iconic deltoid motif, an aesthetic code introduced with the first Dream Watch, which establishes a link between the various creations of the independent Manufacture.
The compact structure of Calibre DB2144V2 developed exclusively for the curved asymmetrical case of the DW5, along with the reduced space devoted to the display of its functions – hours, minutes and spherical moon phases – already illustrated Denis Flageollet’s desire for a broader aesthetic playground.
“The Dream Watch collection is one of De Bethune’s mainstays, designed to push the technical and aesthetic boundaries of the wristwatch.
As a concept watch, the DW5 allows me to go beyond simple watchmaking. Like a sculpture, the experimental work carried out on titanium is part of an artistic approach inspired by philosophical and personal reflections.” Denis Flageollet, master watchmaker and founder.
Through its choice of materials and finishes as well as the use of original techniques, the DW5 paves the way towards new cultures and concepts, while retaining its identity strongly inspired by aeronautics and space exploration.
DW5 Al-Amal: a wrist sculpture brimming with hope and optimism Named DW5 Al-Amal, this one-of-a-kind timepiece was inspired by the illuminated calligraphic motifs on the exterior façade of the museum to convey a universal message, like a time capsule sent by humanity.
Entirely made of mirror-polished titanium, the case is adorned with engravings representing six distinct Arabic calligraphies of the word ‘Love’.
Whether friendly, passionate, carnal, spiritual or unconditional, love in Arabic is pronounced and calligraphed in different ways depending on the nuance it adopts. Among the many Arabic words that express this feeling, those evoking ‘Al-Amal’ friendship, desire, the heart, love, passion and faith have been carefully selected. These calligraphies pay tribute to an art that elegantly and flowingly transcends mere writing, making words veritable channels of beauty and emotion.
Watchmaking tradition is all about innovation The art of watchmaking in the 21st century follows in the footsteps of the great master watchmakers of the Age of Enlightenment. Building on a centuriesold culture, it is shaped and forged on a daily basis, continually integrating the scientific and technological innovations of our time into avant-garde creations, driven by De Bethune’s distinctive penchant for introducing philosophical concepts with a cultural mission. The Dream Watch collection is the boldest and most accomplished expression of this horological creativity.
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