Baume & Mercier Presents The Riviera Watch Chronograph Versions

Created in 1973, the Riviera watch returns this year to revive the spirit of an inspiring watchmaking era. A Baume & Mercier icon, the Riviera is now unveiled in three chronograph versions, each with a diameter of 43 mm and its own distinctive character. These sporty and elegant watches embody the Brand’s know-how in design, form and watchmaking expertise. They also tell a wonderful story, the story of Baume & Mercier chronographs: the ultimate complication that blends sporty style with chic elegance. Almost fifty years on and the Riviera still conveys the values of joy and carefree living that were synonymous with the free-spirited seventies. This year, the watch is being given a renaissance and has been redesigned following Baume & Mercier’s Swiss know-how and integrating contemporary style codes. The fifth generation of the Riviera is not about a revival but a renewal.

Starting in the 90s, the first Riviera chronographs brought a new edge to the collection and reflected the new codes and trends of each passing year. The story continues this year with three variations of the brand new Riviera chronograph, whose diameter measures 43 mm. These three watches with assertive characters fit perfectly with this tradition. Staying true to the design of the original pieces, the Riviera automatic chronographs echo the legendary watch: a 12-sided bezel, a dial with a unique wave-shaped decoration symbolising the meeting between a mountain and the ocean, and interchangeable straps – using the Fast Strap system developed by the Brand – in steel or rubber. The shape and libertarian spirit of the 1973 model remain, but are represented in a new, contemporary light. Two versions are available, with a polished and satin-brushed steel case. The first is adorned with a blue sun satin-finished dial and a matching blue rubber strap. The second has a black sun satin-finished dial and an integrated steel bracelet. The third design completely black: a black case in microblasted ADLC-steel, a black sun satin-finished dial and a black rubber strap. Robust and reliable, Riviera chronographs carry a tried and tested “Swiss made” automatic movement (Valjoux 7750) with a 48-hour power reserve and runs at 28,800 vph, or 4 Hertz. Each model features a double day-date window at three o’clock, a small second hand at 9 o’clock and two sub-dials for chronograph functions: a minute counter at 12 o’clock and an hour counter at 6 o’clock.

This year. The new chronographs are no exceptions to the rule. The case/bracelet integration has been thoughtfully designed by Baume & Mercier watchmakers to provide the Riviera with beautifully balanced proportions as well as increased comfort for its wearer. The three new chronograph models are therefore fitted with interchangeable straps that have a triple folding buckle and a safety clasp. They also feature the ingenious “Fast Strap” interchangeability system developed by Baume & Mercier, so the flexible or steel bracelet can be changed in just a few seconds.

The new collection was presented at Watches & Wonders 2021 with automatic 42-mm models, while top-of-the-range Baumatic versions in the same size were the standout stars of the collection. The Riviera also makes an appearance on women’s wrists in quartz versions (36 mm) asserting an ever more impactful style in perfect correlation with the rich history of Baume & Mercier. These pieces mark a shift in continuity for Baume & Mercier, leaving an impression on the living legacy of a Brand on the move. They echo the characteristics of their ancestors, but are writing their own chapter in the story. Integrating both its avant-garde seventies design and the sporty classicism of watchmaking today, the Riviera’s comeback in this chronograph version is more than meets the eye. Riviera chronographs embody the values that underscore the Brand’s style, as it continues to express its know-how in design, form and watchmaking expertise.