In my opinion, Baume & Mercier truly shines when they delve into the realm of timeless designs. The Clifton timepiece, renowned for its harmonious proportions, nostalgic influences, and exceptional affordability, presents an irresistible proposition. However, Baume & Mercier managed to surpass even this remarkable creation with the introduction of the elegantly understated Clifton Baumatic, boasting a formidable movement.
The case
The Clifton family is renowned for its elegant and well-proportioned watch cases, and the Baumatic version exemplifies this quality with its sleek dimensions of 40mm in width and 10.3mm in height. However, while it bears the Clifton name, it possesses distinctive features that set it apart from its predecessors. In comparison to the regular Clifton, which measures 41mm in width, the Baumatic variant appears slightly narrower. Not only is the overall width reduced, but the lug shoulders have also been refined, enhancing its timeless appeal. As expected, both the front and rear crystals are made of sapphire, providing durability and clarity, and it boasts a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters.
The dial
The case of this timepiece showcases a timeless aesthetic that seamlessly extends to the dial, embodying simplicity and elegance. Against a glossy white lacquer background, the crisp black printing forms the foundation, while the hands and markers shine with reflective facets, accentuating their sharpness. Baume & Mercier has managed to infuse this design with numerous details, successfully avoiding an austere or cold impression. Notably, the watch includes a neat date display at the three o’clock position, a legible minute track, and Arabic markers at every five-minute interval. Moreover, the hour and minute hands are perfectly proportioned, aligning precisely with the hour and minute markers.
Despite conveying a significant amount of information through its four lines of text, including the brand name, origin, movement type, power reserve, and chronometer status, the dial maintains a harmonious balance and avoids the feel of an overwhelming essay. What truly seals the deal for me is the inclusion of crosshair markings unique to the COSC model, adding a charming vintage touch. It is worth noting that the dial lacks luminescent material, which suits its dressy design perfectly. While it might have been possible to incorporate small luminescent plots along the outer edge of the hour markers, such a modification would have compromised the sharpness and purity of the overall design.
The movement
The Clifton Baumatic boasts an appealing and meticulously designed case and dial, but its true star is the movement. Representing Baume & Mercier’s inaugural in-house creation, this timepiece makes an impressive entrance. In fact, when comparing specifications and price, the Baumatic movement stands out not only within the Richemont collection but across the entire Swiss watch industry. Developed by the skilled experts at ValFleurier, a division of Richemont, it is anticipated that this remarkable architecture will eventually permeate throughout the group. However, at its current price point offered by Baume & Mercier, it is unrivaled. So, what does this extraordinary timepiece offer?
Let’s start with the headline news, boldly displayed on the dial—the exceptional five-day power reserve. While three days would have sufficed, the extension to five days is truly noteworthy. While the COSC level of accuracy is standard, it remains a vital testament to the timepiece’s quality and dependability. The real advantages for the wearer, though, lie in the anti-magnetic properties, courtesy of the Twinspir silicon hairspring, and the lengthy five-year service interval. Although not as attention-grabbing as the power reserve, this extended service interval signifies the Baumatic’s reliability and its purpose as a contemporary, robust workhorse, designed from the ground up.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that this movement cannot cater to every individual’s preferences. While it excels in functionality, the finishing leans towards the industrial side. Granted, it may lack the exquisite polish of a watch priced four times higher, but that precisely aligns with the essence of the Clifton. Priced just above four thousand dollars, it embodies the notion that one cannot have everything, yet it still delivers beyond expectations.
The strap
The latest iteration is presented with a sleek black alligator band adorned with enhanced stitching and a traditional tang buckle. While it may not be exceptionally striking, it exudes reliability and durability. It’s important to mention that the minimalist aesthetic allows for endless possibilities when it comes to selecting straps, ranging from classic to unconventional styles.
On the wrist
The Clifton Baumatic exuded an air of sophistication when worn. It possessed an elegant and refined character, embodying qualities of clarity, precision, and comfort. Moreover, it boasted a versatile nature that allowed it to adapt seamlessly to various occasions. Presently, the watch epitomized a formal and professional demeanor, best suited for pairing with a buttoned-up attire and a suit-and-tie ensemble. However, by merely altering its strap, I believe it could undergo a remarkable transformation, showcasing an entirely different personality altogether.
The verdict
In addition to its striking aesthetics, the Clifton watch, paired with the cutting-edge Baumatic movement, possesses the capability to reestablish Baume & Mercier’s prominence and serve as a significant advancement in base movement options for the wider Richemont group. It is highly likely that in the coming years, we will witness a diverse array of designs, sizes, and other features emerging from this collaboration.