Berneron Mirage 38 Review: An Asymmetrical Masterpiece of Independent Watchmaking
- October 26, 2025
The Berneron Mirage: A Confluence of Art and Mechanics
When the name Berneron surfaces in discussions among horology enthusiasts, it is often with a tone of reverence. Founded by Sylvain Berneron, a watch designer with a storied career at top-tier brands like Breitling, Berneron distinguishes itself as a beacon of artistic and technical innovation among microbrands. With the Mirage, the brand’s debut wristwatch, Berneron offers an unconventional design that marries elegance with an avant-garde ethos. Let’s delve into what makes the Berneron Mirage an extraordinary creation in the world of independent watchmaking.
Design and Aesthetics
The Mirage’s design narrative begins with its asymmetrical case, a hallmark that sets it apart from the typical symmetry-driven creations (oh, and it does it so well). The case, crafted entirely from 18K gold, exudes a sense of discreet luxury. Its dimensions, 34 x 38mm, offer a snug fit, while the slightly bulbous shape adds a layer of uniqueness. Available in both white and yellow gold, the case’s sleek lines and irregular shape create a striking silhouette on the wrist.
The dial, rendered in Prussian blue or Sienna tones, is a canvas of refinement. The use of gold for both the dial and hands ensures a visual harmony that resonates with understated elegance. The reversed hand installation – a direct consequence of the bespoke Caliber 233 – adds a quirky charm to the watch, where the hour hand sits above the minute hand, creating a distinctive layered effect.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Berneron’s commitment to quality is evident in the Mirage’s all-gold construction, from the case and dial to the buckle and movement components. This comprehensive use of gold is not merely a stylistic choice but a statement of the brand’s dedication to luxurious craftsmanship.
The hesalite crystal on the front, chosen for its superior optical qualities, and the sapphire crystal caseback reveal the movement’s intricate workings. The meticulous decoration of the movement with techniques such as guillochage and anglage adds to the visual allure, making the Mirage as much a piece of wearable art as a functional timepiece.
Movement and Mechanism
At the heart of the Mirage lies the proprietary Caliber 233, a hand-wound movement with a 72-hour power reserve. Its construction in solid gold enhances both the aesthetic and functional appeal. The movement’s layout, designed to break free from traditional circular configurations, incorporates a larger barrel for extended power reserve and an inverted hand set for a slimmer case profile. These technical choices underscore Berneron’s philosophy of blending art with engineering excellence.
What Makes the Mirage Special?
The Mirage embodies the ethos of Berneron – where traditional craftsmanship meets bold innovation. Its asymmetry, derived from the movement rather than mere design whimsy, and the comprehensive use of gold place it in a league of its own. This watch is not just a testament to Berneron’s artistic vision but also to the possibilities within the realm of microbrands, where creative freedom flourishes.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Berneron Mirage stands as a testament to what independent watchmaking can achieve when unbound by the constraints of mass production. It’s a wristwatch that invites the wearer to appreciate the harmony in asymmetry, the luxury in subtlety, and the art in mechanics. With order books full until 2025, the Mirage is both a collector’s dream and a symbol of Berneron’s uncompromising pursuit of excellence.
As Sylvain Berneron continues to push boundaries, there’s already a new timepiece announced for 2025 as part of the second collection, though the details remain shrouded in mystery. This anticipation only adds to the allure of the brand and hints at an exciting future for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
While I often advocate for supporting local watchmakers, it’s essential to acknowledge that the Mirage, with its €70,000 price tag, is a significant investment. Not everyone has the means to indulge in such luxury. However, for those curating a high-end watch collection, the Berneron Mirage feels indispensable. Its unique design, exquisite craftsmanship, and the brand’s philosophy make it a cornerstone piece – an emblem of what independent watchmaking can achieve at its zenith.
Specifications:
Brand – Berneron
Model – Mirage
Case Material – 18K Yellow or White Gold
Case Dimensions – 34 x 38mm
Water Resistance – 30M
Strap – Barenia Leather
Crystal – Hesalite (top), Sapphire (bottom)
Movement – Caliber 233, hand-wound
Price – €70,000 (excluding VAT)
Lume – No
Limited Edition – Yes, 12 pieces per year
Power Reserve – 72 hours
Official store link here.
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About Berneron: Key Questions Answered
Who is the founder of Berneron?
The founder of Berneron is Sylvain Berneron, a renowned French watch designer known for his extensive career at prestigious brands such as Breitling. Drawing upon years of expertise in luxury watch design and craftsmanship, Sylvain Berneron established his eponymous independent brand to blend avant-garde creativity with traditional Swiss horology. His vision for Berneron focuses on redefining elegance through unconventional yet highly refined timepieces like the Mirage.
How much are Berneron watches?
Berneron watches, including the Mirage collection, are priced as follows: the Mirage 38 is priced at approximately €70,000 (Euros), $80,000 (USD), and CHF 65,000 (Swiss Francs), excluding VAT. The newly introduced Mirage 34, featuring exquisite stone dials crafted from Lapis Lazuli and Tiger Eye, is priced starting from CHF 48,000 excluding VAT for 2025 deliveries, rising to CHF 51,000 in 2026, and CHF 54,000 in 2027. Converted, the 2025 price for the Mirage 34 is approximately €51,200 or $58,400. Due to limited annual production and full gold construction, Berneron watches represent rare, high-value investments in the world of independent Swiss watchmaking.
