Introducing the Quantième Annuel: A Testament to Craftsmanship

In an electrifying debut, watchmaker Sylvain Berneron burst onto the scene in 2023 with his innovative brand, instantly capturing the hearts of watch enthusiasts with the Mirage. This stunning creation, featuring a unique warped design and intricate hands, sold out in an instant and earned coveted accolades as watch of the year. Berneron revealed he could ramp up production fivefold and still meet demand for every piece. Now, he’s ready to unveil his latest masterpiece, but those hoping for another avant-garde design might be in for a surprise.

A Traditional Twist with a Modern Soul

His latest release, the Quantième Annuel, stands in stark contrast to the Mirage. "It’s the exact opposite," Berneron quips, calling it either a stroke of genius or sheer folly. While its symmetrical round case and classic dial might appear traditional, the complexity lies beneath the surface—boasting an impressive 450 components compared to the 135 in the Mirage. Berneron aims to prove he is not only a bold designer but also a skilled watchmaker, determined to escape the confines of being labeled a one-hit wonder.

Designed for Real Life: User-Centric Features

What’s truly remarkable about the Quantième Annuel is how Berneron designed it with real-world usability in mind. The dial's layout streamlines time-telling: read from top to bottom for the time and left to right for the date—simple and effective. The watch even features replaceable steel bumpers, armor-like protection laid over a soft platinum case. Though a sophisticated perpetual calendar would be a stunning showpiece, Berneron opted for practicality with an annual calendar, based on feedback from collectors.

A Vision for the Future of Watchmaking

With a clear vision for his brand’s future, Berneron is not just living in the moment. He meticulously plans the next decade, knowing exactly how many pieces he aims to produce by 2035—600, which is ambitious for an independent watchmaker. His third collection, intriguingly named the Fiasco, promises to highlight high-jewelry techniques. Berneron understands that sustainability is crucial: "It would be naive to think that the Mirage will hold the spotlight for the next 50 years," he admits.

Turning Hype into a Lasting Legacy

The sophomore release is often a pivotal moment, and Berneron is keenly aware of the challenge: transforming initial hype into a lasting brand. When discussing his journey, he doesn’t measure himself against other indie brands, but instead draws inspiration from giants like Patek Philippe and Cartier, who expertly diversify their offerings, or Rolex’s forward-thinking approach. "There’s a huge difference between making a cool watch and building a brand," he emphasizes. With the Quantième Annuel, he takes a significant step in the right direction.