ReviewThe Baume and Mercier Clifton – A Classic Watch Worth Treasuring
Reminiscent of the watches of the 50s, Baume have created a classic watch we’d want to have on our wrist every day
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Baume and Mercier have a wide variety of time tellers in their portfolio. However, their most defining collection is, without a doubt, the Clifton. Though not many may know that the name of the collection came from a South African seaside resort, the collection though is inspired by vintage dress watches of the 1950s.
The watch in discussion today is one of their best-rendered classic watches available in the market today, for a fairly reasonable price. We go up close with the Clifton Power Reserve and give you our impressions about this classic-modern icon.
Dial – the Clifton design
Established in 1830, Baume & Mercier is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world, so it’s fair to say they have a good share of experience and knowledge about creating the perfect “classic watch”. Replicating the same spirit that existed 186 years ago was not going to be tough since they’ve mastered the art for so many years. The spirit is thus visible in the Clifton, which is an extension of its lineage, and you can see that in every detail. From the dial to the strap, the overall aesthetics of it speak only of its exclusive class, and indeed it is spoken very well.
The case is a prominent 43 mm in diameter, which, just in one look conveys the seriousness of purpose. While the sides of the case and lugs have this subtle brushed finish, the case and bezel have a beautiful polished finish, living up to its vintage vibes. The sunburst silver coloured dial covered with an anti-glare, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal maintains the overall understated feel of the watch. The end result is a case that plays rather well with the light and is very interesting to behold.
Another minor but important detail of the watch is how well the hands are done: the leaf shaped hands of this watch are gilded to give a dressier feel. The dial also has a nice satin finish just like the case, with lovely gilt Arabic numerals, and the applied hour markers use the same shape as the rest of the Clifton collection, with a pleasant font. In my opinion, a great size for everyday wear, whether it’s a shirt and tie or casual attire. Though the blue minute indicators are not as luminous as to take the attention away from the hour markers, however, they still give a nice contrast to the dial. Some may say that the dial isn’t as bold as its contemporaries. However, we like the understated and well-balanced feel of the watch.
Personally, we would have liked the date display to sit slightly higher on the dial, but the location is probably dictated by the architecture of the movement within. It’s a small observation that can be easily overlooked.
Strap
The Clifton sits extremely comfortable on the wrist with its brown genuine alligator strap which is fastened with a triple folding buckle for enhanced security. Apart from what the strap offers in terms of comfort, the choice of the colour brown adds to the finishing touches of its handsome looks. It’s a watch made to be worn on a daily basis, and that’s exactly what it delivers. It’s made for anyone looking for an everyday wear watch. This model is water-resistant to 50 meters and can be carried from work to dos with friends and family seamlessly.
The Clifton collection is the most valued addition to the portfolio of Baume & Mercier, offered at a price point that’s arguably the best value for money in the market presently. And, what made us truly happy was to learn that some brands still understand the importance of creating affordable timepieces. The major reason why this watch works so well is the great mix of the size of the case, style, and the wonderful design and execution of the watch dial; and of course its affordable price. This watch creates an interesting blend between a dress and a casual watch (we can assure you that it will not go unnoticed!).
Calibre
Powered by a Swiss mechanical self-winding caliber, that enables it not only to display the time on its dial but also to feature an impressive 42-hour power reserve indicator at 6 o’clock. The most prominent of the features is the power reserve indicator; it immediately brings about the realisation that you’re dealing with a serious movement that keeps the owner in the safe knowledge that it is sufficiently wound to maintain flawless operation.
A classic watch worth treasuring
With the Clifton, B&M have created the very versatile and understated classic watch we’d want to have on our wrist every day. And not just this watch alone, the Clifton range as a whole is reminiscent of the watches of the 50s. And Baume, knowing pretty well that there is a wide appeal for these timepieces, have delivered a gem of a watch, and collection.
We hope to cover all of the Clifton watches soon but until then you can view the entire collection available in India by clicking here.
Would you like to have this watch on your wrist? Let us know in the comments section below!
(Image courtesy: Baume & Mercier and Monochrome)