Yet another highly anticipated release for SIHH comes with the new Clifton from Baume et Mercier. Baume et Mercier stands as one of the seven oldest watch manufacturers in the world, so when it speaks the watch community tends to pay attention. This Swiss brand has been prolific in recent years with solid new watches, which have held firm to the tenets of the craft.
As opposed to replacing certain models, these new watches will add to the Clifton collection. The new chronographs will be manufactured in 43mm stainless steel cases, which will be highly polished positioning them in the dress chronograph category. The bezel and lugs are circular grained adding depth to the case. The main crown is ridged making the adjustments of the time, day, and date almost effortless. Baume et Mercier uses an exhibition sapphire crystal case back to evince the movement.
These chronographs carry a self-winding Valjoux 7750 movement, which beats at 28,800 VpH. The power reserve is standard with about two days’ worth when fully wound. The silvered dial is brushed in a ‘rays of the sun’ motif, this helps to make the subdials more legible. The only variations from model to model are the hands and hour markers which come in either gold tone of blued steel. This subtle touch makes a huge difference to the aesthetics of these models. The usage of the blue or gold is quite similar in look to the IWC Portuguese, which also comes with a silvered dial. In the fashion of dress chronographs, these models are devoid of luminous elements.
The new Clifton chronographs come with your choice of either a stainless steel seven piece bracelet or a black, large square scale alligator strap. These timepieces are water resistant to 5 ATM (50 meters). The official release of these watches is slated for April of 2014.
