Baume & Mercier - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

Baume & Mercier is a Swiss luxury watch brand founded in 1830 by brothers Louis-Victor and Célestin Baume in Les Bois, in the Swiss Jura. Since its creation, the brand has been committed to producing watches of excellence, combining traditional know-how, innovation and timeless design. The Baume brothers began their watchmaking adventure by creating pocket watches with high-quality complications and movements. Their success was immediate, and in a few years, they acquired a solid reputation for the precision and reliability of their watches. In 1851, Baume & Mercier won its first gold medal at the World's Fair in London, marking the start of a string of prestigious awards for the brand.

What are the emblematic models of the Baume & Mercier brand?

Over the decades, Baume & Mercier has continued to expand its range of watches and explore new technical innovations. The brand has created several iconic collections, each with its own distinctive character.

Baume & Mercier Classima

This collection embodies classic elegance with its watches with a refined and timeless design. Classima watches are distinguished by their minimalist dials, slim cases and refined leather straps. They are often associated with complications such as moon phases or calendar complications.

Baume & Mercier Clifton

Inspired by watches from the 1950s, the Clifton collection embodies retro elegance. Clifton watches are characterized by their rounded cases, sophisticated dials and high-quality leather straps. This collection offers models with complications, such as chronographs, minute repeaters and tourbillons.

Baume & Mercier Hampton

This collection is recognizable by its rectangular or barrel cases, which offer a unique aesthetic. Hampton watches combine classic elegance and contemporary design. They stand out with their dials with clean lines and their steel or leather bracelets.

Baume & Mercier Promise

Designed especially for women, the Promesse collection is distinguished by its feminine and delicate design. The watches in this collection feature dials adorned with diamonds, finely crafted steel or leather bracelets, and harmonious shapes. They symbolize commitment and the promise of a precious moment.

Baume & Mercier Capeland

This collection pays homage to the sporting heritage of Baume & Mercier with watches inspired by vintage chronographs. Capeland watches are characterized by their generous cases, elegant dials with chronograph counters, and leather or steel bracelets. This collection embodies retro style and the spirit of adventure.

Baume & Mercier Riviera

Introduced in 1973, the Riviera collection embodies the sport-chic style of Baume & Mercier. Riviera watches are distinguished by their polished and satin-finished stainless steel cases, their dials marked with Roman numerals and their characteristic bracelet integrated into the watch case. This collection is aimed at watch lovers looking for a perfect balance between elegance and sporty functionality. It was relaunched in 2021 with multiple variations to revive this typical 70s model from the 70s, reminiscent of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Patek Philippe Nautilus, icon of Sports-Chics watches.

In addition to these collections, Baume & Mercier also introduced the line Baume & Mercier Baumatic, which embodies a new era of technical innovation. Baumatic watches are equipped with revolutionary movements that provide increased precision and reliability. These movements, developed in collaboration with the Richemont group and the ValFleurier company, have an extended operating autonomy and are resistant to magnetic fields. Baumatic watches combine performance and aesthetics, with elegant designs and modern functionality.

How much does a Baume & Mercier watch cost?

The prices of Baume & Mercier watches sold on the brand's website vary between $1,000 and $4,000 depending on the models and finishes. Count on $2,100 for a Baume & Mercier Classima automatic in 42mm and $4,650 for a Baume & Mercier Riviera in 42mm as well.

Baume & Mercier: Among the oldest Swiss watch brands

Baume & Mercier continues to innovate by offering new collections that reflect evolving tastes and styles. The brand is aimed at a sophisticated clientele looking for high-quality watches combining watchmaking tradition and contemporary design.

In conclusion, the story of Baume & Mercier is that of an iconic Swiss brand that has built a reputation for excellence and quality since its creation more than 180 years ago. The brand has evolved with the times while retaining its watchmaking heritage, offering a range of collections that celebrate timeless elegance and exceptional watchmaking craftsmanship.

Check out the Ranking of the most popular Swiss watch brands, including Baume & Mercier.

(Updated May 2024)