JoshTheCanadian's initial post on the Berneron Mirage captured the community's attention, highlighting a new independent brand poised to make a significant impact. His detailed preview, shared ahead of the official release, underscored the watch's unique design philosophy and technical innovations. This article delves into the community's initial reactions and further insights, building on JoshTheCanadian's foundational introduction to this exciting new timepiece.
I often get excited about new releases, particularly by independents, but with this one, I am
extremely excited. I did not see anything on this site, but I thought I would gather some of the information that is currently available - as I understand the official release will be in October 2023.
This is the Berneron Mirage, the first watch from Sylvain Berneron - the Creative Director at Breitling.
Before I get started, here is a wonderful article from Wristcheck, which is where I discovered this project: https://wristcheck.com/discover/wristchat/sylvain-berneron-breitling's-creative-director-on-the-debut-watch-from-his-eponymous-brand
Here is the current "schematic" for the Mirage:
At 37.5mm by 33.5 mm, I have so say, those are the perfect dimensions for a time-only watch like this. And at 4.90 mm without the glass, and 7.00 mm with the glass, it is a lovely thickness.
This is a watch very clearly inspired by Gilbert Albert or Rupert Emmerson - which is something that I have yet to see in the world of independents.
One major distinction, in my opinion, is that this shaped watch similarly has a shaped movement! Again, this is so rarely done - and I do not believe I have ever seen a movement with this architecture.
A few other interesting tidbits:
- Nearly the entire watch, including the movement, is made in gold. Obviously, this is uncommon and a nice touch.
- Note the abnormal, but very interesting, "complication" - the hour hand is stacked on top of the minute hand. That allows the crystal to have more of a dome. This is the same problem the RRCA was trying to fix with the stepped hands.
Often, but not always, independents differentiate themselves from the major brands and other independents by finishing. I have no doubt that the finishing on this will be tip-top - but to me, this direction feels so fresh. I am very excited for the official reveal!
