Sylvain Berneron, the creative mind behind the acclaimed Breitling brand, is charting an audacious new course with the launch of his own independent label, Berneron. Straying from traditional design constraints, Berneron’s debut timepiece, the Mirage, embodies a distinctive blend of innovation and artistic expression, setting the stage for a compelling reimagining of contemporary watchmaking.
Drawing from his rich background in product design with industry giants like BMW and Breitling, Berneron has steered the Mirage into uncharted territory, embracing asymmetry as its defining feature. The timepiece deftly fuses a Patek Philippe Calatrava’s classic elegance with the unique allure of a Cartier Crash, showcasing a seamless marriage of art and technique.
Central to the Mirage’s allure is its groundbreaking movement, a product of a strategic collaboration with renowned manufacturer Le Cercle de Horlogers. Berneron’s unwavering commitment to his vision spurred the creation of an unconventional, asymmetrical caliber, crafted with gold main plates and bridges, a pioneering feat rarely seen in the industry. The Mirage’s 2.3mm thick gold movement, along with its 3 Hz frequency and 60-hour power reserve, highlights Berneron’s dedication to both artistic innovation and technical precision.
Beyond the groundbreaking movement, the Mirage’s design ethos resonates throughout its construction. Embracing a distinctive aesthetic that evokes echoes of Dali-esque artistry, the timepiece’s 18-karat gold components, including the dial, hands, case, and spring bars, underscore Berneron’s unyielding commitment to uncompromising quality and craftsmanship.
Underlining his dedication to exclusivity and artistry, Berneron plans a limited production run of only 24 Mirage pieces annually over the next decade, ensuring a meticulously curated offering for discerning collectors. This exclusivity, coupled with the Mirage’s striking aesthetic and technical prowess, has already captured the attention of enthusiasts and collectors, heralding a promising future for the emerging independent brand.
As the Mirage paves the way for a new chapter in Berneron’s horological journey, the watchmaker remains steadfast in his commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the very essence of contemporary watch design. With an unwavering dedication to artistic expression and a keen eye for technical innovation, Berneron’s Mirage promises to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of independent watchmaking.
