Haute Watch of the Week: Baume & Mercier Clifton Chronograph

Baume & Mercier has beefed up its Clifton collection, and will introduce three new chronographs at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie next month in Geneva.

The brand prides itself on its heritage as the 7th-oldest Swiss watch company, and takes inspiration from its extensive archives. The new chronographs in the Clifton line thus have a vintage character, with all the hallmarks of the so-called Golden ’50s, a period considered by many to have been the golden age of wristwatches. All are self-winding chronographs which, even though they are technically sports watches, are elegant and understated, since Baume & Mercier’s signature design code is the classic, elegant dress watch.

There are three versions of the watch. The Clifton 10123 is steel with blue hands against a sun satin-finished silver dial. The movement can be seen through the case back and also shows the day and date in an open display at the three o’clock position.

The Clifton 10130 also has a steel case, with a flexible steel strap made of fine steel links. It is water-resistant to 50 meters, and contains the self- winding mechanical movement ETA 7750, known for its durability. Day and date are displayed at 3 o’clock.

The Clifton 10129, also steel, is undoubtedly the most vintage of the collection, with a traditional look, with a sun satin-finished silver dial, golden hands and golden numerals. It is further accentuated by a brown alligator strap with large square scales. The movement can be seen through the case back.

Photos courtesy Baume & Mercier.