Introducing: The Baume & Mercier Clifton Moon-Phase Date

April 24, 2020

This has chalked up to be the year Baume & Mercier outfitted some more complicated pieces with the in-house Baumatic movement, and the new offerings do not disappoint. With this watch, the new Clifton Moon-Phase Date, you get all that complicated moon phase goodness, a calendar-style date indicator, and the beastly five-day power reserve. The best part? This watch is offered exclusively in steel, with a price almost too good to be true. I have said it before (maybe even today), and I'll say it again, Baume & Mercier is bringing the goods in terms of watchmaking and affordability.? Initial Thoughts For a watch clearly positioned as something quite cosmopolitan in overall design, I happen to think it to be far more versatile than that. The dial is a stark white, which the brand says is done in a porcelain-like finish. The complications are confined to the six o'clock portion of the dial in a very austere and visually pleasing configuration. Punches of blue and white from the moon phase and date display bring a welcome pop of color to an otherwise colorless palate. While the watch itself is only offered in steel, it is outfitted in two variations: leather strap or steel bracelet. Both iterations of the watch are winners, but the bracelet gives this watch a sporty aspect almost evocative of a Rolex Oyster Perpetual C minus the complications of course. For those looking for versatility in a timepiece, this one is a really good bet. From the case to the clean white dial, it is more than appropriate in both professional and formal environments alike. While this new watch is a bit large at 42mm, it is consistent with many other Baume & Mercier offerings. It features a sapphire caseback displaying the Baumatic movement, complete with some surprisingly nice decorations, and the whole package comes in under $4,000. So, what's the catch? You got me there.? The Basics Brand: Baume & Mercier Model: Clifton Moonphase DateReference Number: M0A10552Diameter: 42mmThickness: 13.2mmCase Material: Stainless steelDial Color: WhiteIndexes: Rhodium-plated riveted trapezoid-shapedLume: NoWater Resistance: 50mStrap/Bracelet: Alligator leather strap or stainless steel bracelet The Movement Caliber: BAUMATIC BM14 1975 AC1Functions: H/M/S, moon phase, dateThickness: 5.7 mmPower Reserve: Five daysWinding: Self-windingFrequency: 4 HzJewels: 21Chronometer Certified: NoAdditional Details: Open-worked oscillating weight adorned with Co?tes de Gene?ve and snailed decors, Baume & Mercier engravings Pricing & Availability Price: CHF 3,800Availability: October 2020Limited Edition: NoFor more, click here.