Since 1830, the Swiss Maison d’Horlogerie Baume & Mercier has made it a point to create watches that are appreciated for their balanced design, the quality of their movements and representing a glimpse of luxury that is both beautiful and accessible. Never has this been more apparent than with the introduction of the Clifton collection.

Powered by Swiss-made mechanical movements, this predominantly automatic collection is inspired by a museum timepiece from the 1950’s. This decade is widely considered the golden age for wristwatches and is marked by the creation of elegantly designed timepieces.

Clifton

Baume & Mercier’s new Clifton collection is a contemporary and modern interpretation of the men’s classic round watch. These highly refined watches with uncluttered sun satin-finish dials, also feature a sophisticated double-beveled design, curves on the case and the bezel, sapphire case back and small complications on some of the references. Each model is clad in steel or 18K red gold and finished with an alligator strap or stainless steel bracelet.

From Left to Right: Baume & Mercier’s Clifton 10052, Clifton 10053 and Clifton 10060

Many will be particularly drawn to the Clifton 1830 model, which could be considered the cornerstone of the collection. This watch, made in 18K red gold, measuring 42 mm in diameter, and traditionally worn upon an alligator strap, houses a caliber of the La Joux-Perret manufacture. It is manually-wound and is said to be the most accurate interpretation of the historical model from the Baume & Mercier Museum in Geneva. It is truly a collector’s piece.

The Clifton collection will launch at retail in April 2013.

Linea

Baume & Mercier is also introducing some beautiful additions in the women’s watch category. This year will bring the unveiling of the quartz Linea 27 mm series featuring interchangeable straps in hand-woven leather in various colors, created in collaboration with actress, Emmanuelle Chriqui; as well as two new mechanical models from the Linea 27 mm collection.

Baume & Mercier CEO Alain Zimmerman and actress Emmanuelle Chriqui

This new design collaboration with Chriqui, best known for her role on HBO’s Entourage as Sloan McQuewick, was an obvious fit for Baume & Mercier as she has been a loyal fan of the brand for the past two years. Chriqui worked with Baume & Mercier to put her own modern spin on the Linea by introducing a casual-chic woven lambskin strap. "I’ve always had an affinity for woven leather. Its handcrafted, artisan appeal is such a great, yet unexpected pairing with the Linea watch. The strap is so soft and supple. We chose a color palette of white, orange and beige; very light and beachy, paying homage to Baume & Mercier’s Seaside Living mantra. I’m a huge fan of the Baume & Mercier brand, it was an absolute thrill to work alongside their design team in Geneva,” explains Chriqui. The collection will launch Spring/Summer 2013.

Baume & Mercier’s two new Linea models designed in collaboration with actress Emmanuelle Chriqui

Lastly, are two new references added to the popular Linea collection. The new Linea Automatic is available in a 27 mm case and possesses an elegant, yet simple time display. Its exquisite mechanism, the true heart of the watch, can be admired through the transparent case back.

Available in steel or two-tone, each has a mother-of-pearl dial set with 11 diamonds. Further, the versatility of the Linea collection is apparent by its series of interchangeable straps and bracelets in leather or satin-finish - providing an option to women who wear it as a chic accessory.

These two new references will be available in stores in September 2013.

Source: Baume & Mercier