DBF009 Review by Escapement Magazine
Angus Davis, editor-in-chief of Escapement magazine, tested the DBF009. In a detailed report, he describes the watch from its design to its visual features and mentions its technical specifications and historical calibre.
We have summarised his report for you here:
Overview and design
The DuBois et fils DBF009 is a modern interpretation of a classic pilot's watch, designed by Stephan Messmer, with a revised Felsa 692 calibre from 1948. The watch combines vintage charm with a contemporary finish: balanced case proportions (44 mm diameter, 12.38 mm height), fine surfaces made of grade 5 titanium (partially DLC-coated) and a striking propeller crown, which is particularly noticeable when setting the time, hours and date.
Dial and readability
The dial impresses with its generous Superluminova-coated numerals and hands. The central seconds hand has a fir tree motif at the end as a counterweight – the brand's logo. Eight different colour options are available, including granulated, sunray and dégradé textures, to add visual character without compromising readability.
Historic automatic movement
Inside, the Felsa 692 calibre beats – a ‘Bidynator’ automatic movement from 1948 with 17 jewels, Incabloc shock protection and a power reserve of approximately 44 hours at 18,800 vibrations per hour (~2.5 Hz). DuBois et fils thoroughly revises these stock movements (‘new old stock’) and documents each watch in a blockchain-based NFT chronicle.
"THE MODEL EXUDES CHARACTER FROM EVERY ANGLE COURTESY OF ITS NUANCED DIAL AND PROPELLER-THEMED CROWN."
Special features and conclusion
- The DBF009 combines classic pilot watch features, such as high legibility and a propeller crown, with high-quality, modern finishes and attractive coloured dials.
- Using historic Swiss movements aligns with an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach: the watches are robust and easy to repair, and can be fully restored.
- Priced in the upper mid-range, it offers a unique story and limited-edition charm that many modern new watches lack, making it ideal for collectors and lovers of authentic watchmaking.
