Entrepreneur Mark Zuckerberg spotted wearing a de Bethune

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg was recently spotted wearing a de Bethune DB28XS Kind of Blue Tourbillon while discussing Muse, the latest artificial intelligence creation from Meta AI. The sighting captures the entrepreneur in casual conversation, with the striking blue-dialed timepiece prominently visible on his wrist—a departure from his typically minimalist personal style and a notable nod to haute horlogerie.

The de Bethune DB28XS represents the pinnacle of independent watchmaking, combining hand-wound mechanical innovation with avant-garde design. At the heart lies de Bethune's proprietary manual-wind calibre, featuring a titanium balance wheel and de Bethune's signature silicon escapement—both engineered to deliver superior chronometric performance and longevity. The 42mm case is machined from blue-coated titanium, a material choice that echoes the watch's aesthetic while offering lightweight durability. Water resistance reaches 50 metres, sufficient for daily wear despite the timepiece's haute complication status. The dial showcases de Bethune's distinctive finishing: the deep blue surface contrasts sharply with the transparent tourbillon cage visible at 6 o'clock, allowing direct observation of the regulating organ's 4Hz oscillation.

The DB28XS Kind of Blue variant occupies a rare position in the de Bethune portfolio. The "Kind of Blue" designation references the colour palette rather than a limited edition status, though production remains deliberately constrained. The model exemplifies de Bethune's philosophy of combining mechanical complexity with aesthetic restraint—no applied indices, no printed numerals, merely the essential geometry of a 60-minute tourbillon. Collectors recognise the DB28XS as a statement piece that prioritises horological substance over brand cachet.

Zuckerberg's choice signals appreciation for independent watchmaking craftsmanship over mainstream luxury brands. The de Bethune DB28XS demands active engagement from its wearer; daily hand-winding and tourbillon-watching become ritualistic elements of ownership. For a figure accustomed to technology-driven timekeeping, the mechanical philosophy embedded in this timepiece represents a deliberate counterpoint.

Retail pricing for the de Bethune DB28XS Kind of Blue Tourbillon typically begins near $160,000 USD, though secondary market values fluctuate with availability. De Bethune does not maintain traditional waitlists; direct acquisition requires established collector credentials and boutique relationships. The reference remains among the most sought de Bethune sports models, balancing accessibility against rarity.