Here we have a 1950s Baume Automatic wristwatch complete with a power reserve indicator at 12 o'clock. The cream dial has an even patina that radiates out from the centre hands pinion and gives no speculation as to the originality of the dial. The mixed, chrome Arabic numerals and dagger baton markers sit inside the outer minute tracking. Dauphine hour, minute and central seconds hands have the faint remains of the original lume.
The stainless steel, screw-back case and lugs are true to the 1950s aesthetic and inside sits a Swiss automatic caliber.
Extra Points
Baume & Company, founded in 1844, was a London-based partner and importer of the Swiss company Baume Frères. By 1876, Baume & Co. were the sole importers of Longines watches, among others, to Britain, a title they held until the 1960s. Baume Frères took over the London side of the business in 1909 and moved the company to Switzerland where they manufactured watches under the 'Baume' name, to then be imported to Britain. William Baume left the family business in 1919 and established his own company in Geneva with a friend, Paul Tcherednitchenko who had adopted the name of Mercier, and together they formed Baume & Mercier. However, apart from blood relations, there is no other connection between Baume Frères and Baume & Mercier and the former owned the rights to the Baume name in Britain. This meant that Baume & Mercier were unable to market their watches in Britain until Baume & Co. ceased trading in the 1960s. Baume & Co. also constructed the 25 foot 'Festival Clock' for the Festival of Britain in 1951. Baume & Co. only joined the Baume & Mercier brand a few years ago when it was revived with an emphasis on being environmentally responsible.
As with all our stock this piece comes fully serviced by our on-site workshop and with a 12 month, non-waterproof service cover.
What we think
I always find it fascinating when I see different levels of patina on watches. I love the way the dial has evenly turned this warm shade is beautiful, even better is the fact it's done it on an already stunning watch! Baume has a fascinating history and should be a brand in every watch enthusiast's collection!
Spec Stuff
Reference :
Movement : Automatic Caliber Rotor Power
Age :1951/1960
Specific Age : Circa 1950s
Case Size : 35mm
Case Thickness :
Lug to Lug : Lugs : 18mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : No Case Material : Stainless Steel Warranty : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
1950s Unusual Baume Swiss Power Reserve Automatic Wristwatch with Mixed Arrow & Arabic Numerals
