De Bethune Unveils One-of-a-Kind Dual Dial Day of the Dead Watch
A whimsical timepiece titled the “Cempasúchil II.”
Swiss watchmaker De Bethune has showcased its playful creativity yet again, with the new “Cempasúchil II” timepiece, unveiled at the prestigious SIAR watch show in Mexico. This unique piece, part of the Maestri’art collection, carries a dual persona, sporting twin dials that embody a blend of mischief and a nod to the vibrant Mexican Dia de Muertos or Day of the Dead celebration.
This latest one-of-a-kind timpiece comes to life as a collaboration between De Bethune’s co-founder, Denis Flageollet and acclaimed Swiss Art engraver, Michèle Rothen — demonstrating the endless customization possibilities of De Bethune’s double-sided watch design. This venture follows the success of their previous “Kind-of-Two” model released in 2020.
The “Cempasúchil II” is designed to act as a narrative piece, with one dial portraying a dance floor for two Calaveras (skulls) marking the hours and minutes. On the flip side, a hidden decor reveals a playful depiction of the Calaveras, brought to life with a complex automaton mechanism, animated on-demand by a button at 12 o’clock.
Additionally, the watch acts as a homage to renowned Mexican engraver José Guadalupe Posada, whose 19th-century artwork inspired the detailed engravings and micro-sculptures adorning the watch, crafted meticulously by Rothen. The characters, reminiscent of Posada’s lively depictions of the dead, dance in a scene of joy and mischief. Other design details include a titanium casing, flame-blued and adorned with subtle gold inlays.
The “Cempasúchil II” personifies the brand’s aim of marrying mechanical innovation with aesthetic artistry and will be on display at the SIAR watch show in Mexico until October 19.
In related watch news, check out Biver’s “La Danse du Temps,” another tribute to the Day of the Dead also on display at SIAR.
