Company Overview

Baume & Mercier’s story began in the Swiss Jura in 1830, when brothers Louis-Victor and Celestin Baume founded the company, then known as “Frères Baume”. Over the next century, the company expanded internationally, opening a branch in London and gaining a strong presence in the British Empire. By focusing on precision and reliability, Baume et Frères became a dominant force in timing competitions, earning multiple chronometry records.

In 1918, the company joined forces with Paul Mercier, a prominent figure in the watchmaking industry, leading to the birth of Baume & Mercier. This partnership marked a turning point for the company. Under Mercier’s influence, the brand ventured into the production of unconventional wristwatches, aligning themselves with the era’s artistic movement that celebrated aesthetics as much as functionality.

The company has always strived for innovation. In the 1940s, Baume & Mercier launched the Marquise, a bangle watch that became a best-seller and an icon of its time. The 1970s saw the introduction of the Riviera, one of the world’s first steel sports watches.

Baume & Mercier’s philosophy is captured in their motto: “Accept only perfection; only manufacture watches of the highest quality.” The company prides itself on offering a diverse range of designs that meet the highest standards of Swiss watchmaking. Their timepieces, like the Classima, Clifton, and Hampton lines, are renowned for their timeless elegance, functionality, and excellent craftsmanship.

Baume & Mercier also values tradition and heritage. Their watches are often given as gifts for special occasions, marking memorable moments in people’s lives. This tradition of celebrating life’s special moments adds a sentimental value to their timepieces, making them more than just watches.

In the world of horology, Baume & Mercier has made a name for itself with its dedication to precision, quality, and design. It has forged a legacy that combines the best of Swiss watchmaking tradition with a firm commitment to innovation and creativity. Each Baume & Mercier timepiece is a testament to the brand’s enduring quest for perfection, reflecting their rich heritage and mastery of the art of watchmaking.

Notable Achievements

Baume & Mercier is known for creating watches that balance technical prowess with timeless design. The company’s commitment to excellence earned it ten Grand Prix watchmaking awards and seven gold medals at international exhibitions and competitions by the early 20th century.

Key Collections

Key collections from Baume & Mercier include the Classima, Clifton, and Hampton lines, each catering to a distinct style. The Classima is ideal for lovers of understated elegance, while the Clifton line offers a more modern, urban aesthetic. The Hampton collection, inspired by a piece from the 1940s, caters to those seeking a vintage vibe.

Brand Philosophy

The Baume & Mercier motto, “Accept only perfection; only manufacture watches of the highest quality,” encapsulates their commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. This philosophy has guided the brand for nearly two centuries and remains at the core of its identity today.

Craftsmanship

Each Baume & Mercier watch is a testament to the brand’s stringent quality standards and horological expertise. Combining traditional Swiss watchmaking techniques with innovative practices, they produce timepieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also reliable and accurate.

Celebrity Affiliations

Baume & Mercier has been associated with a number of celebrities over the years, including David Duchovny, Teri Hatcher, Ashton Kutcher, and Evangeline Lilly. These stars have either been brand ambassadors or have been seen wearing Baume & Mercier watches at public events.