Fifty years ago, the Riviera was presented for the first time. A model that immediately caught the eye at the time for its distinctive steel case with dodecagonal bezel combined with a flat-link metal bracelet, and in general for its casual aesthetic inspired by the art de vivre of the Côte d'Azur.
Undoubtedly a different style from that suggested by classical watchmaking codes. A 'brave' watch - considered one of the very first sporty/chic watches - that in half a century Baume & Mercier has not stopped renewing. Now in its fifth generation, the Riviera collection has in fact been revised and improved several times with models that have allowed it to remain current and attractive.
Like the last two versions: a perpetual calendar inspired by a 1985 model and a 50th anniversary celebratory edition, both in limited series. The Riviera Perpetual Calendar Baumatic has a 40 mm steel case, a bezel secured by four screws, and a gilded dial with vintage accents.
It is fitted with a three-row steel bracelet with decorative chamfers on the central link and equipped with a Baumatic manufacture movement with a Dubois Dépraz module and 5-day power reserve. A limited edition of just 50 pieces.
Price19,500 euro.
The Riviera Special Edition 50th Anniversary in steel and with a 42 mm case, on the other hand, is limited to 273 pieces. A celebratory watch, reinterpreting the Riviera Baumatic, designed as a tribute to the style and history of the collection.
This is revealed by details such as the date '1973' affixed like a secret signature on the transparent blue sapphire crystal dial and the Maison's 'Phi' logo on the counterweight of the seconds hand. The bezel, in polished and satin-brushed soleil stainless steel, is secured by four polished Riviera-style screws. The hour-markers are riveted and rhodium-plated.
The self-winding movement is the Baumatic BM13-1975A calibre with date display and 5-day power reserve.
Price4,300 euro.
