Deadbeat Seconds Complication Examples
Complications

Deadbeat Seconds Complication Examples

By Cookies · Aug 13, 2022 · 31 replies
Cookies
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
31 replies7715 views9 photos
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In a horological landscape often dominated by the smooth sweep of a seconds hand, collector Cookies challenges convention by celebrating the 'deadbeat seconds' complication. This article, inspired by Cookies' original post, delves into the intriguing world of watches that deliberately tick like quartz, a feature many collectors initially shun. Cookies' curated selection of examples, combined with community insights, highlights why this 'frivolous' mechanism is, in fact, a testament to playful and sophisticated engineering.

Tick tick tick tick…it must be a quartz watch because it is ticking. The very concept of ticking seconds tick most collectors off. “No it looks cheap, I don’t want people to mistake me for wearing a fake watch”, said a watch collector friend of mine.

I like playful pieces. Life’s too serious to take things more seriously. It needs a little spice - a twist to the tale. That is how beautiful stories (or beautiful tragedies) turn out - not by the bandwagon.

Which brings me to today’s topic, something completely off the bandwagon. Many collectors simply shun deadbeat seconds as a frivolous mechanism. “Why engineer something backwards?” 

Here is a wonderful post: KMII has chronicled a vast list of deadbeat complications via his post:  www.watchprosite.com

And I spent my leisure hours perusing other articles written by SJX, Peter Chong (of Deployant), Worn&Wound, and even some Omega Constellation Collectors Page. These seasoned vetarans have written a lot about Deadbeat Seconds. I think SJX must have spent a long time writing his article, because it is so technical and detailed. 

Pictures please. Ok, so I am not a writer. I am only an entertainer. Hope you all enjoy the pictures I stole from the web (with credits given) of the stunning Deadbeat Seconds out there:



Arnold and Son DSTB 
Credit: Deployant



A rather interesting deadbeat watch by Paul Gerber. Some examples have a function to switch between Deadbeat and Sweeping seconds. Wow 
Credit: Eclectium




Habring2 Jumping Second 
Credit: Habring2




De Bethun DB25 
Credit: Ablogtowatch



Gronefeld 1 Hertz 
Credit: Monochrome




The unicorn - some say only 17 examples exist. The Omega Syncrobeat Credit: Omega Constellation Collectors




The unicorn - Omega Syncrobeat 
Credit: Worn & Wound



Jacquet Droz Grande Seconds Deadbeat 
Credit: ablogtowatch

Do you know of other examples? Which Deadbeat piece is your favourite?

Until next time…

I wish someone would create a seconds hand which ticks/sweeps counterclockwise, as a frivolous technical feat.

About the De Bethune DB25 Ref. DB25

De Bethune DB25 Reference DB25

The DB25 represents De Bethune's entry in the 44.5mm manual-wind category, distinguished by its silver dial configuration within the DB25 series. This reference launched in 2006 and continues the brand's approach to contemporary haute horlogerie complications.

The 44.5mm case is crafted from 18k white gold with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. Water resistance extends to 30 meters. The manual-winding caliber DB2105 movement provides a substantial 120-hour power reserve. The watch features a leather strap attachment.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking De Bethune's technical approach to timekeeping in a precious metal case. The extended power reserve and manual-wind operation position it for enthusiasts who appreciate hands-on interaction with their timepieces. The 44.5mm sizing places it in contemporary proportions within the independent watchmaking segment.

Specifications

Caliber
DB2105
Case
18k White Gold
Diameter
44.5 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Aug 13, 2022

The Arnold and Son and the Omega are killers.

CO
Cookies
Aug 13, 2022

Super stunning pieces. I never had the chance to see these 2 pieces. I did have a chance to handle the DB25 tourbillon. I would have sold my kidney for that work of art. Tourbillon was on the verso side. Super stealth.

CO
Cookies
Aug 13, 2022

His favourite Rolex and this is quite a rare bird. I heard that many of the older examples were dismantled to make the seconds sweep again.

CO
Cookies
Aug 13, 2022

I will ammend it with this. Thanks a lot. Jacquet Droz Grande Second Deadbeat Credit: Ablogtowatch

CO
Cookies
Aug 13, 2022

In Pink Panther, Inspector is always on his toes, thanks to his assistant. Credit: New York Times

CO
Cookies
Aug 13, 2022

I love the worldtimer. The JLC logo on it is so regal on the blue background of the dial. Grrr…if only they had better communication, I would have taken that over the plain Jane Geophysic. It was sitting in the shelf of another AD in Australia a week after I purchased the plain Jane.

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