De Bethune Mystery Box Forget Time

A new horological creation, the De Bethune Mystery Box Forget Time, emerges from a remarkable confluence of artistic vision and mechanical ingenuity. This singular object is the product of a collaboration between the Scottish designer Fiona Krüger and Denis Flageollet, the master watchmaker and co-founder of De Bethune. It stands as a profound mechanical meditation on the nature of time itself, inviting observers to reconsider their perception of its passage through an engaging visual and tactile experience. The piece does not merely tell time; it encapsulates an enigma, translating complex philosophical ideas into a tangible, interactive form.



The conceptual wellspring for the Mystery Box Forget Time lies in the thought-provoking explorations of physicist Carlo Rovelli concerning the impermanence and fluidity of time. Fiona Krüger, deeply moved by Rovelli's assertion that "Time flows at a different speed depending on the place, the past and future differ far less than we think, and even the notion of the present vanishes into the infinite universe," embarked on a personal reflection. She sought to articulate how time, in its essence, eludes our grasp. This foundational idea is masterfully translated into the physical realm through patterns of overlapping dots and lines, a design language that Krüger employs to represent the very granularity of reality, echoing Rovelli's scientific insights with artistic sensitivity.



Fiona Krüger's creative philosophy is deeply intertwined with the desire to capture the intangible essence of time and render its inherent mysteries visible. Her works are often conceived as invitations to ponder existence, bringing compelling narratives to life through meticulously crafted mechanical objects. This approach has distinguished her eponymous brand, where unconventional designs often draw from profound themes. The Mystery Box Forget Time is a continuation of this artistic journey, pushing the boundaries of how horological art can engage with abstract concepts and evoke intellectual curiosity alongside aesthetic appreciation. Her unique perspective transforms a time-telling device into a contemplative piece.



At the heart of De Bethune, located in L’Auberson in the Swiss Canton of Vaud, lies a fervent passion for creating extraordinary objects that reside at the intersection of mechanical arts and horology. Denis Flageollet has consistently driven the Manufacture to be more than a watchmaking facility; it is a research and development hub where cutting-edge technologies are harmonized with the spirit of 18th-century master watchmakers. This ethos involves designing and crafting components individually, with an unwavering attention to detail. De Bethune has a history of astonishing the world with its creations, such as the retro-futuristic Stellar clock in 2015, which remains an iconic piece for the brand. Flageollet himself notes his enduring dedication to clocks, valuing the vaster space they offer for mechanical and artistic expression compared to wristwatches.



The collaboration between Fiona Krüger and Denis Flageollet for the Mystery Box Forget Time represents a harmonious fusion of distinct yet complementary talents. Krüger’s evocative, philosophical design concept required the profound mechanical expertise of Flageollet to be realized. The two worked in close concert, ensuring that the form and function of the piece were perfectly synchronized. This synergy was crucial in developing a clock that not only embodies Krüger’s artistic narrative but also upholds De Bethune’s exacting standards of mechanical performance and innovation. The resulting creation is a testament to a shared passion for storytelling and an unparalleled mastery of their respective crafts.



The exterior of the Mystery Box, designated as Part A, presents an immediate visual intrigue. Fashioned from rich, dark wood, its surfaces are adorned with delicate black-marquetry lines intricately interwoven with lustrous mother-of-pearl inlays. This complex patterning evokes a sense of photons drifting through the vastness of the cosmos, a direct visual metaphor for particles of light and, by extension, moments in time. Subtle linear fragments appear to emanate from a central, unseen axis, suggesting a world that is on the cusp of opening, imbued with dynamism and a profound sense of mystery. The cubic form of the closed box is stark yet elegant, its surfaces punctuated by these shimmering circular inlays of varying sizes, creating a constellation across the dark expanse of the wood.



The journey into the heart of the Mystery Box Forget Time is initiated by a suspended key, an element that immediately captures the viewer’s attention and hints at the mechanical marvel within. A soft, rhythmic ticking sound can be perceived, adding an auditory layer to the enigma, its source shrouded until a hidden button is discovered and actuated. This interaction reveals Part B: the internal clock, unveiled through a smooth sliding opening on a rail. This deliberate act of revelation transforms the observer from a passive viewer into an active participant in the discovery of the clock’s secrets, enhancing the immersive quality of the piece.



Once opened, the internal clock reveals a truly innovative approach to displaying time. Hours and minutes are indicated by floating indices engraved on glass tubes, a design choice that transcends conventional horological displays. This unique mechanism perfectly resonates with Carlo Rovelli's philosophy, visually representing time and space as untethered and fluid concepts rather than fixed, rigid constructs. Within this revealed sanctum, mother-of-pearl discs appear to emanate outward, lending a sense of motion to the stillness of the surrounding structure. This dynamic clockwork tableau vividly illustrates the abstract notions of time and space in a continuous, flowing dance. The exposed mechanism, with its polished and finished components, becomes an integral part of the artistic expression.



The exquisite marquetry work that defines the exterior of the Mystery Box Forget Time is the result of a specialized collaboration with Hawthorne Fine Boxes, with artisan Emeline Dépail lending her particular skills to the task. Their expertise in this intricate craft enhances the exterior design, bringing an additional layer of depth and refinement to the piece. This collaboration underscores the multifaceted nature of the project, where different streams of artistry converge to create a cohesive and compelling whole. The careful execution of the marquetry, with its precise lines and seamlessly integrated mother-of-pearl, contributes significantly to the object's tactile and visual appeal, inviting a closer examination of its detailed surfaces.



The mechanical heart of this creation is the calibre FK:DF:MBT, a manually wound movement developed specifically for the Mystery Box Forget Time. It is wound using a fixed key, a charmingly traditional feature that contrasts with the avant-garde nature of the clock's overall concept. The movement contains 13 jewels and boasts an impressive power reserve of approximately seven days, ensuring sustained operation and temporal reflection. Its substantial dimensions – 142mm in height, 94mm in depth, and 121mm in width – allow for a robust and visually engaging architecture. The mainplate is crafted from nickel silver, while the bridges are made of steel, materials chosen for their stability and aesthetic potential.



Further delving into the movement's technical attributes, the FK:DF:MBT operates at a frequency of 2.5 Hz, or 18,000 vibrations per hour. This deliberate cadence contributes to the clock's contemplative character. A significant feature of the movement is its constant-force mechanism. This sophisticated device ensures that the energy delivered to the regulating organ remains consistent throughout the unwinding of the mainspring, thereby maintaining a stable amplitude and enhancing the precision of timekeeping. Such a mechanism is particularly fitting for a creation that explores the fundamental nature of time, ensuring its mechanical representation is as consistent and reliable as possible. The various finishes applied to the movement components, including satin-finishing, sunburst (soleillage) patterns, and distinctive "scratched"-finished elements, demonstrate De Bethune's commitment to aesthetic excellence even in the internal workings.



The meticulous selection and treatment of materials are paramount in the Mystery Box Forget Time. The movement incorporates steel, brass, and synthetic rubies, alongside the prominent mother-of-pearl and wood marquetry seen externally and internally. A total of 35 mother-of-pearl elements are integrated into the design, with an additional two pieces adorning the key, bringing the count to 37. These iridescent components catch and reflect light, adding a dynamic quality to the piece. The metallic parts of the movement undergo rhodium or ruthenium treatments, providing both protection and a distinctive contemporary finish. The interplay of these diverse materials, from the warmth of the wood to the cool gleam of the metal and the ethereal shimmer of mother-of-pearl, creates a rich sensory experience.



The extensive use of mother-of-pearl throughout the Mystery Box Forget Time is not merely decorative but deeply symbolic. Its natural iridescence and origin from the depths of the sea connect it to concepts of hidden beauty, the passage of time marked by growth, and even cosmic nebulae. The circular forms of the inlays on the exterior box, appearing like celestial bodies scattered across a dark wooden sky, reinforce the cosmic theme suggested by Krüger's inspiration from photons. Internally, the mother-of-pearl discs that contribute to the dynamic representation of time further this narrative, transforming a natural material into a key component of a philosophical statement.



The physical dimensions of the Mystery Box contribute significantly to its impact as an objet d'art. When closed, it forms a perfect cube of 192 x 192 x 192 mm, a compact and self-contained enigma. Upon activation of the central push-button, the sliding opening mechanism transforms its silhouette, extending its width to 280 mm while maintaining the height and depth of 192 mm. This change in dimension is part of the interactive experience, altering its presence from a static object to a revealed treasure. The movement itself, with its dimensions of 142mm x 94mm x 121mm, is substantial enough to be appreciated as a standalone piece of mechanical sculpture, with its carefully arranged components and intricate finishes fully visible.



De Bethune’s legacy extends beyond the realm of wristwatches into the specialized domain of clockmaking. The Manufacture has long nurtured a dedicated workshop for such projects, preserving traditional clockmaking skills while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of mechanical art. Special projects like the Mecavers and the previously mentioned Stellar clock are indicative of this commitment. Denis Flageollet’s statement about the "vaster space" afforded by clocks for artistic and mechanical freedom is vividly realized in creations like the Mystery Box Forget Time. This piece continues De Bethune's tradition of not just doing more, but doing better, drawing inspiration from historical horology while perpetually reinventing its expressions.



Fiona Krüger brings her own distinctive design language to this collaboration, a language honed through years of creating unconventional timepieces under her eponymous brand. Her work is often characterized by an artistic exploration of profound themes, notably mortality, often influenced by her experiences with cultural expressions like the Mexican "Day of the Dead" festival and historical artifacts such as the skull watch of Mary Queen of Scots. This background informs her unique, sometimes punk-inspired aesthetic, which challenges traditional notions of watch design. For the Mystery Box Forget Time, Krüger channels this artistic sensibility into a contemplation of time's elusive nature, resulting in a piece that is both intellectually stimulating and visually striking.



The very name, "Mystery Box," perfectly encapsulates the essence of this creation. It is an object that invites curiosity and promises discovery. The initial closed form conceals its true nature, offering only subtle hints of the complexity within. The act of opening the box becomes a ritual, a transition from the enigmatic exterior to the revealed mechanical wonder and philosophical statement contained therein. This concept of a journey of discovery is central to the experience, making the interaction with the clock as significant as the clock itself. It speaks to a human fascination with the unknown and the pleasure of uncovering hidden truths or beauties.



Ultimately, the De Bethune Mystery Box Forget Time is conceived to do more than just indicate the passing hours and minutes. It aims to fundamentally challenge and reshape our perception of time. By translating the abstract and often counterintuitive insights of modern physics regarding time's nature into a mechanical and artistic form, Krüger and Flageollet prompt a deeper reflection. The floating indices, the cosmic motifs, and the very act of "forgetting time" as a rigid, linear progression encourage a more fluid, personal, and perhaps even poetic understanding of its flow.



This extraordinary horological artwork, the Mystery Box Forget Time, is not intended for mass production. Its creation is a highly specialized and labor-intensive endeavor, reflecting the dedication to artistry and craftsmanship at its core. As such, it is being offered as a strictly limited edition of just 20 pieces. This rarity ensures its exclusivity and positions each example as a unique collector's item, a testament to a singular vision realized through collaborative genius.



The precise pricing for the De Bethune Mystery Box Forget Time is to be confirmed by the Manufacture. Given the intricate craftsmanship, the innovative mechanics, the artistic collaboration, and the strictly limited production run, it is anticipated to be a significant acquisition. Prospective collectors and enthusiasts of horological art are encouraged to make direct inquiries with De Bethune or its authorized representatives to learn more about its availability and the process for acquiring one of these exceptional creations. Each of the 20 pieces represents a rare opportunity to own a profound statement on time, art, and mechanics.



Case: Outer Box dimensions: 192 x 192 x 192 mm (closed), 192 x 192 x 280 mm (open). Central push-button, sliding opening on rail. Material: Wood marquetry with mother-of-pearl incorporation.

Movement: Calibre FK:DF:MBT, manual winding with fixed key. Power Reserve: ~7 days. Jewels: 13. Frequency: 2.5 Hz (18,000 vph). Dimensions: 142mm (H) x 94mm (D) x 121mm (W). Constant force mechanism. Materials: Steel, brass, synthetic rubies, mother-of-pearl (35 pieces, 37 including key), wood. Finishes: Satin finishing, scratching, soleillage (sunburst finish), Rhodium/Ruthenium treatment. Mainplate in nickel silver, bridges in steel.

Dial: Time indication by engraved glass tubes for minutes and hours.

Price: To be confirmed.

Notes: Limited edition of 20 pieces. An artistic collaboration between Fiona Krüger and Denis Flageollet. Inspired by physicist Carlo Rovelli’s exploration of the impermanence of time.