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Baume & Mercier launched the Riviera collection in 1973, creating a line of bold-looking timepieces that embraced a unique shape and design. The watch gained instant acclaim for its singular 12-sided case and bezel. Further, the impactful presence of this refreshing shape, combined with an integrated metal bracelet, was nothing short of statement-making. While the original reference was a time-only model with a date window in steel, later iterations within the Riviera collection came with a slew of complications, including chronograph and full calendar functions, and in combinations of steel and gold. Today, Riviera is the centrepiece of Baume & Mercier’s versatile catalogue, harmonising the watchmaking spirit of the 70s with contemporary nuances.
Riviera Design Codes
Having garnered earlier renown for its design, aesthetics have played a significant part in Riviera’s evolution as a much sought-after timepiece today. Riviera watches feature a clique of design codes that have become synonymous with the collection. While the 12-sided bezel and the integrated herringbone bracelet have been the lodestones, elements such as the four screws on the bezel and the waves pattern on the dial have become coveted bells and whistles. Up until the 2000s, the Baume & Mercier Riviera collection was teeming with elegant watches. However, today, it partakes sporty confections as brilliantly as dressy. The collection brings numerous iterations flaunting large-sized cases, robust rubber straps, and a definitive athletic vibe, catering to a whole new audience.
The Versatile Baume & Mercier Riviera Collection
Housing both automatic and quartz models, the Riviera collection boasts a versatile line-up of watches. It brings beautiful diamond-studded women’s watches alongside everyday models with practical functions. A range of colours and the use of sapphire crystal dials never let the aesthetical value of Riviera watches dwindle. It is a collection that stands at the forefront of watchmaking excellence, elevating innovation and luxury with each new model.