Introducing Arnold & Son Unveils Two New Additions to the DSTB 42 Collection

Arnold & Son introduced the DSTB collection in 2015, an abbreviation for “Dead-Beat Seconds True Beat.” This line pays tribute to the brand’s storied legacy in precision timekeeping. Its hallmark feature is the True Beat seconds complication, which replaces the conventional sweeping seconds hand with a precise, jumping seconds indication. Beyond enhancing accuracy, it creates a visually captivating rhythm on the dial.

At Geneva Watch Days 2023, Arnold & Son unveiled the redesigned DSTB 42 collection. Now, just days before Geneva Watch Days 2025, the manufacturer enriches the family with two new editions, featuring refined dial finishes that spotlight the complex mechanism beneath: the DSTB 42 Red Gold Mint Green and the DSTB 42 Platinum Ascot Blue.

The collection is offered in two distinctive executions, each defined by its case material and dial tone. The 5N red gold case pairs elegantly with a mint green dial, while the platinum 950 edition is complemented by an Ascot Blue dial for a more contemporary, understated presence. 

Measuring 42 mm in diameter and 12.95 mm in thickness, the case is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal featuring double-sided anti-reflective coating, ensuring impeccable legibility. A sapphire case back, also treated with anti-reflective coating, offers an unhindered view of the movement. Water resistance is rated at 30 metres.

The true-beat seconds complication is deeply rooted in the brand’s history. It was intrinsic to the marine chronometers John Arnold supplied to the Royal Navy, whose escapements ticked with the steady rhythm of one oscillation per second. With this clear and regular cadence, Arnold & Son cemented one of its most iconic complications: the true-beat, or deadbeat, seconds.

Both new dial variations Mint Green and Ascot Blue are created using a PVD treatment, followed by a finely grained decoration. Time is displayed on an off-centred hours-and-minutes subdial in white opal with black printed Roman numerals, while the true-beat mechanism is proudly exposed on the upper dial side. Three openworked, three-dimensional bridges, crafted in solid gold, showcase the mechanical artistry and echo Arnold & Son’s signature design codes.

The seconds hand traces its path along a scale running from 9 to 12 o’clock, providing visual balance opposite the off-centred time display at 5 o’clock. This layout is an intentional aesthetic statement rather than a compromise, underscored by the crown’s classic placement at 3 o’clock. The anchor-shaped counterweight of the true-beat seconds mechanism further reinforces the symbolism of Arnold & Son’s maritime heritage.

Because no wristwatch escapement naturally beats at one oscillation per second, a dedicated mechanism is required to achieve the true-beat seconds display. The in-house A&S6203 calibre, developed exclusively for this collection, operates at 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour, or eight oscillations per second). Its specially engineered mechanism ensures the seconds hand advances in 60 precise jumps per minute—emulating the steady beat of a marine chronometer.

This self-winding calibre measures 33 mm in diameter and 5.54 mm in height (8.33 mm including the true-beat bridges). It is powered by a 22-carat gold oscillating weight and delivers a power reserve of 55 hours.

The DSTB 42 is fitted with hand-stitched alligator leather straps Cornish green for the red gold edition and ink blue for the platinum version, secured by pin buckles in matching 18-carat red gold or platinum. Each edition is limited to 18 pieces only, with prices starting at CHF 42,700 approx. AED 200,000 for the red gold version and CHF 54,600 approx. AED 250,000 for the platinum version.

For more information visit Arnold & Son’s official website.