Basel Goldsmith: A Swiss Atelier for Handcrafted Jewelry
Basel Goldsmith: A Swiss Atelier for Handcrafted Jewelry
Our atelier is located in Basel's historic old town at Rheinsprung 10, housed within a beautiful 16th-century building.
Visit us four a personal consultation where we'll guide you into the world of Retina® jewelry - where your unique Retina pattern becomes a timeless work of art.
Your Visit to Our Basel Atelier
Visiting our atelier provides the complete Retina experience. You'll meet Dr. Stefan Wacha personally, see our workshop where each piece is handcrafted, and receive your Retina® scan in our studio.
What you will experience with us
- The Personal Experience
Free consultation in an unhurried, intimate setting. We take time to understand your vision and story.
- Swiss Craftsmanship
Watch master goldsmith techniques in our working atelier. See where your jewelry will be created.
- Your Story Begins Here
Your Retina® scan takes approximately 1 minute per eye using our specialized camera. The process is painless and easier than a standard eye test.
We guide you with care through every aspect of the Retina concept, from understanding your unique retinal pattern to exploring design options in precious metals.
Handcrafted Jewelry Created in Basel
Every Retina® piece is handcrafted in our Basel workshop using Swiss goldsmith traditions. Each creation transforms your personal Retina pattern into jewelry that's as unique as you are.
- Wedding Rings
Wedding rings starting at CHF 2,700. Your Retina pattern becomes a symbol of unity and devotion. Most couples invest CHF 4,000-6,000 per ring. - Pendants
Pendants starting at CHF 1,900. Worn close to the heart as an intimate reflection of your soul. - Earrings
Custom earrings crafted as matching pieces, each reflecting your unique pattern - Bracelets
Bracelets can incorporate up to 8 Retina patterns from multiple family members. Available in platinum, yellow gold, and rose gold. - Watches
Swiss Made timepieces featuring Sellita SW200-1 automatic movements with your Retina design integrated into the dial. - Men’s Jewelry
Refined designs like cufflinks or tie clips carrying your personal signature with sophisticated subtlety.
Meet Dr. Stefan Wacha
Dr. Stefan Wacha combines scientific expertise with master craftsmanship. Originally a neuroscientist with a PhD in biology, he discovered that Retina patterns are completely unique to every person, more unique than fingerprints.
Drawing from his neuroscience background, Stefan created the Retina concept in 2016. He transformed scientific knowledge into an entirely new category of luxury jewelry, one that celebrates what makes each person genuinely irreplaceable.
With 19 years of jewelry craftsmanship experience and 9 years perfecting the Retina concept, Stefan personally guides each client through their design journey. Every consultation reflects his belief that true luxury lies in what cannot be copied.
A Historic Basel Location
Our atelier occupies a 16th-century building in Basel’s old town. The historic setting reflects our commitment to timeless craftsmanship and authentic artistry.
Basel’s tradition as a center of Swiss goldsmithing provides the perfect foundation for our work. The city’s position at the crossroads of Switzerland, Germany, and France creates a unique cultural environment for our international clientele.
What Happens During Your Visit
- Personal Consultation
We take time to understand your wishes, style, and story. No pressure, just conversation about your vision. - Retina Scanning
Your Retina scan captures the unique pattern at the back of your eye. The process takes about 1 minute per eye. - Design Discussion
Explore materials, styles, and customization options. See examples and discuss what your finished piece might look like. - Design Visualization
After consultation, we create a photorealistic 3D animation of your design (CHF 400, fully credited toward purchase). - Handcrafting
Once you approve the design, our goldsmiths handcraft your piece in our Basel workshop. Standard production takes 6-8 weeks.
Your journey begins with a simple conversation. We’ll explain everything clearly and answer all your questions.
Visit Information
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 3 PM – 6 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM – 1 PM & 3 PM – 6 PM |
| Thursday | 3 PM – 6 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM – 1 PM & 3 PM – 6 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Note: Clients with appointments receive priority to ensure dedicated attention. We welcome spontaneous visits when possible.
Getting to Our Atelier
By Tram
Trams 6 and 8 and sowie die Buses 34, 38, 31 stop at Schifflaende. The atelier is a short walk from the tram stop in Basel’s historic old town.
Walking from Basel Harbor
Our location is on the direct route between Basel harbor and the cathedral. Cruise ships tourists from Viking Cruises and Ama Waterways often discover us while exploring the old town.
By Car
Limited street parking available in Basel’s old town. Public parking garages are located nearby at Storchen or Rebgasse.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment to visit?
Ein Termin wird empfohlen, damit wir uns ausreichend Zeit für Sie nehmen können. Kunden mit Termin erhalten Priorität. Spontanbesuche sind möglich, aber wir können nicht garantieren, dass wir sofort verfügbar sind. Die Terminvereinbarung ist einfach per Online-Buchungs-Formular, Telefon oder E-Mail möglich.
How long does the initial consultation take?
The initial consultation takes about 60-90 minutes. We take the time to understand your history, explain the Retina concept, and develop your design. The Retina scan itself only takes about 1 minute per eye.
Is the retina scan painful?
No, the retina scan is completely painless and easier than a normal eye test. You rest your forehead on a support, look at a green dot, and our special camera captures the image. The entire process takes about 1 minute per eye.
How much does a Retina ring cost?
Retina wedding rings start at CHF 2,700 per ring in gold or platinum. Most customers invest between CHF 4,000 and CHF 6,000 per ring, depending on width, material, gemstones, and personalization. The 3D visualization costs CHF 400 and is fully credited upon purchase.
Can I also use the retina of a deceased person?
Yes, that is possible. In Switzerland, ophthalmologists store retinal images for 20 years. As a relative, you can often request these images for memorial jewelry. We have already created moving pieces of jewelry that honor deceased family members.
How long does it take to make my piece of jewelry?
The standard production time is 6-8 weeks after approval of the 3D visualization. We also offer an express service for 3-4 weeks at an additional cost of CHF 400 per piece. Each piece is handmade and receives individual attention.
Do you also offer consultations in English?
Ja, unsere Beratungen mit Dr. Stefan Wacha finden normalerweise auf Deutsch oder Englisch statt. Auch Beratungen auf Französisch sind möglich.
Can I combine several retinal patterns in one piece of jewelry?
Absolutely. We have already created bracelets with 8 retina patterns (both eyes of 4 family members). For wedding rings, the patterns of both partners can be integrated to create a unique, intertwined symbol of your connection.
Lifetime service & quality promise
Begin Your Journey in Basel
Visit our atelier to experience where science meets soul. We’ll guide you through the Retina® concept, capture your unique retinal pattern, and begin designing jewelry that’s as individual as you are.
+41 78 891 79 89
info@RetinaDesign.com
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Every consultation is unhurried and pressure-free. We’re here to help you create something truly meaningful.