Haute horlogerie has always flirted with art, but when a comic book legend graces our wrists, the fascination reaches new heights. On August 31, 2024, during the Geneva Watch Days, BEHRENS unveiled its latest creation: a limited-edition tourbillon watch celebrating 85 years of the iconic Batman. Its code name? “The Dark Knight,” a subtle yet powerful tribute to Gotham’s masked hero, developed in collaboration with MEMORIGIN and Warner Bros. Discovery.
The BM05 Calibre: A Movement Fit for the Dark Knight
Under the hood – or rather, under the dial – lies the BM05 calibre, a manual-winding mechanical movement that pulls no punches. One of its standout features is a free-sprung tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, skeletonized and adorned with the unmistakable Batman logo. This technical marvel not only improves accuracy but also adds a daring aesthetic touch.
But BEHRENS didn’t stop there. A glance at the date reveals a nostalgic touch: the number “27” shines in a special color to commemorate Batman’s first appearance in “Detective Comics” #27. The world of Bruce Wayne never sleeps, and this is reflected in the day/night display at 9 o’clock, where the initials “BW” and the Dark Knight’s logo add a personal dimension.
A Stylish and Technical Watch, Just Like Batman
Where others might settle for a few nods to the superhero, BEHRENS goes further by incorporating a range of sophisticated features. Everything is housed in a 38 mm grade 5 titanium case, a material prized for its lightness and durability – the watchmaking equivalent of Batman’s armor, one might say. The openworked dial offers a captivating view of the watch’s complex mechanics, while the transparent caseback allows a full appreciation of every gear in motion.
With a 48-hour power reserve, the watch offers endurance worthy of the Dark Knight. Its fluorine rubber strap not only provides exceptional comfort but also brings a modern touch that contrasts beautifully with the technical sophistication of the tourbillon.
Innovations Worthy of Bruce Wayne’s Genius
If Batman is known for his high-tech gadgets, this watch is no exception. BEHRENS introduces patented technologies that make a real difference. The free-sprung tourbillon optimizes the movement’s overall performance, while the new bidirectional date adjustment system offers ease of use any watch collector will appreciate. As for the quick-release mechanism, it echoes the discreet ingenuity of the Batcave, allowing for smooth, hassle-free strap removal.
With only 200 pieces available worldwide, this limited-edition watch embodies the spirit of high-end watchmaking while paying a refined tribute to the greatest detective in the universe. Priced at $6,390, “The Dark Knight” is more than just a timepiece: it’s a collector’s item, a timeless symbol that elegantly fuses art, technique, and nostalgia.
In short, if Bruce Wayne wore a watch, there’s no doubt this would be the one. So, are you ready to unleash the hero within?
