Fratello Talks: Sylvain Berneron
This episode features an interview with independent watch designer Sylvain Berneron, founder of the eponymous brand. Berneron discusses his career trajectory, from industrial design at BMW and leadership roles at Richemont and Breitling, to establishing his own brand in 2022 to pursue creative freedom. The conversation highlights his design philosophy, which starts with the movement and dictates the case shape, exemplified by the Mirage, Quantième Annuel, and Mirage Miroir models.
- Berneron brand established in September 2022
- Aiming for approximately 600 watches per year across four collections by 2035
Sylvain Berneron is wearing the Berneron Quantième Annuel Silver, which features a platinum case with removable 904L steel "armor" and a solid-gold movement.
Berneron's watches are conceived, developed, manufactured, and assembled in the cantons of Neuchâtel and Jura.
The Mirage's asymmetry is driven by its unconventional movement architecture, with the case designed to follow its shape.
The Quantième Annuel, introduced in 2025, adds an annual calendar and jump-hour display to Berneron's emphasis on unusual mechanics.
The Mirage Miroir, introduced in 2026, uses a mirrored movement architecture as its primary visual element on the front.
The brand limits production by reference, aiming for approximately 600 watches per year across four collections by 2035.