BAUME & MERCIER | Comprehensive Report from the Geneva Salon!

BAUME & MERCIER | A Report from the Geneva Watchmaking Salon

Iconic Models Evolve Significantly While Retaining Their Price

Following a brand renewal in 2011, this venerable maison has positioned this year as one of 'maturation,' focusing on enriching its product offerings.Baume & Mercier. The highly acclaimedchronographcollection, 'Capeland,' sees its popular models undergo minor changes with no price increase, further enhancing their appeal. A much-anticipated bracelet version has also been added.

Text & Event Photographs by SHIBUYA Yasuhito

Founded in 1830, this historic brand boldly revamped its brand image and collections in 2011. They released high-quality models, refined versions of chronographs produced in the late 1940s, at surprisingly reasonable prices, garnering significant attention from watch industry professionals worldwide. This was Baume & Mercier.

While there were no dramatic surprises at SIHH 2012 akin to the previous year, it was a year of substantial development, with further enhancements to the products introduced last year.

The standout among these is the 'Capeland Chronograph.' The 42mm case model, which achieved overwhelming popularity for its value exceeding its price point of ¥378,000, now features a see-through case back at the same price, with specifications upgraded to include an alligator strap instead of calfskin. Additionally, a bracelet version is now available at the same price.

Even more compelling is the 44mm model, which was developed at the request of European and American clients. Its functions and specifications are nearly identical to the 42mm version, and the price is the same, but it incorporates a more costly movement. If the larger size suits you, this is the better value.

Furthermore, the 'Capeland Flyback Chronograph,' an iconic model, now comes with a black dial. The classic rectangular 'Hampton' model, revamped in 2010, is now available with a bracelet (at the same price as the leather strap version). These additions, along with enhancements to other models, are also noteworthy.

'Capeland Chronograph 42mm'
Welcome Upgrades Throughout
An elegant and classic face with telemeter and tachymeter scales. This model, with its meticulous craftsmanship that belies its ¥378,000 price tag, has been a global sensation since its launch last year. One year later, it receives welcome upgrades. A bracelet version, perfect for daily wear even during Japan's hot, humid summers, has been introduced. The case now features a sapphire crystal see-through back, allowing a view of the automatic winding rotor with the brand's trademark 'Φ' (Greek letter Phi, signifying infinity) and the ETA Valjoux 7753 movement. For strap models, the material has been upgraded from calfskin to a more luxurious alligator. A button on the side of the case, accessible via the included pushpin, has been added for easier date adjustment. Despite these upgrades, which would typically warrant a price increase, the price remains unchanged.

Automatic, stainless steel case & bracelet, 42mm case diameter, see-through back, 5 ATM water resistance. ¥378,000, scheduled for release this spring.

'Capeland Chronograph 44mm'
Equipped with a Chronograph Movement from La Joux-Perret!
The newly introduced 44mm size model of the popular 'Capeland Chronograph,' known for its meticulous craftsmanship. Priced at ¥378,000, the same as the 42mm version, it features the 8120 chronograph caliber from La Joux-Perret, a renowned movement manufacturer specializing in chronographs. Furthermore, the see-through case back allows you to admire its operation. The alligator strap has also been made thicker to match the larger case. As with the 42mm model, a bracelet version is available at the same price.

Automatic, stainless steel case, alligator strap, 44mm case diameter, see-through back. ¥378,000, scheduled for release this spring.

'Capeland Flyback Chronograph'
An Exquisite Chronograph with a Retro Aesthetic
This classic dial, inspired by a 1948 single-pusher chronograph, is equipped with the La Joux-Perret 8147-2 flyback chronograph movement, yet is priced at ¥666,750. A new variant has been added to the Capeland's signature model, which astonished the world last year, offering an even richer, more retro aesthetic. It features a black opaline dial with gold hands and tachymeter scales. The exquisite finishing of the movement, visible through the see-through case back, is also noteworthy.

Automatic, stainless steel case, alligator strap, 44mm case diameter, see-through back, 5 ATM water resistance. ¥666,750, scheduled for release this spring.

'Hampton Automatic'
The Long-Awaited Bracelet Model Arrives!
Inspired by models produced in the 1940s, this beautifully retro, tonneau-shaped model debuted in 2010. Previously available only with a leather strap, 2012 sees the introduction of a bracelet model with a triple-folding security clasp, suitable for Japan's hot summers. The sunray satin-finished dial is available in two colors: silver and white.

Automatic, stainless steel case & bracelet, 45 x 32.33mm case dimensions, 5 ATM water resistance. ¥309,750, scheduled for release this spring.

Baume & Mercier
Tel. +81-3-3288-6335
http://www.baume-et-mercier.jp/