Biver’s Automatique Japan Edition: A Masterclass in Simplicity and Craft
Two Watches, One Philosophy: The Art of Mastering the Essentials
Biver has never been a brand to chase trends. Instead, it focuses on refining watchmaking to its purest form—and nowhere is that philosophy more evident than in the new Automatique Japan Edition watches, created exclusively for The Hour Glass Japan.
With cases in platinum and rose gold, paired with flawless white and deep black enamel dials, these watches embody both Japanese minimalism and traditional Swiss craftsmanship. At a glance, they appear deceptively simple, but behind their purity lies an extraordinary level of complexity.
A Study in Enamel: The Craft Behind the Dial
Creating an enamel dial is a process of patience and precision. Each dial, produced by Les Émailleurs de la Cité, Switzerland’s most esteemed enamel artisans, requires:
Over 10 hours of layering and firing – Building up the surface with hard-fired enamel at 800°C
Another 6 hours of polishing – Achieving a mirror-like, translucent finish that plays with light
Applied gold markers – A rare and technically challenging feature on enamel dials, requiring perfect alignment to avoid cracking
Biver’s decision to use black and white was no accident. These colors reflect both traditional Japanese aesthetics and classic Swiss watchmaking, bridging two worlds of refinement into one cohesive design.
“We wanted to explore how these two perspectives—Japanese minimalism and Swiss craftsmanship—could impact one another, creating something distinct yet timeless.” – Pierre Biver, Co-Founder & Creative Director
Timeless, Yet Unmistakably Biver
Though rooted in traditional techniques, these watches remain true to Biver’s vision. The interplay of light extends beyond the dial to the watch’s other details:
A concave bezel and faceted lugs – Sculpted to reflect light in dynamic ways
Hand-finished Calibre JCB-003 – Featuring deep bevels and black-polished surfaces visible through the sapphire caseback
A 39mm platinum case, 10mm thick – Perfectly proportioned, with a subtle elegance that commands presence
More than just a special edition, the Automatique Japan Edition is an exploration of craftsmanship at its highest level—where the pursuit of simplicity reveals the greatest complexities.
“Japan has some of the finest collectors in the world, known for their deep appreciation of originality, quality, and craftsmanship. It is a privilege to create something special for this market.” – Pierre Biver
For those who believe in the art of understated mastery, these watches represent the pinnacle of refined watchmaking.
Would you choose the bright white platinum dial or the deep black rose gold edition? Reply and let us know.