Watches And Wonders 2022: Baume & Mercier- The Hampton Collection Continues To Assert Contemporary Design & Avant-Garde Shapes
5 min read
Ultra-slim pocket watches for men and jewellery watches for women to wear as rings or necklaces require a visionary mind with a love for shapes and volumes. Beginning in the 1920s, Paul Mercier, with the help of William Baume's technical expertise, captured the spirit of the era's social growth. The Maison's intrinsic originality and modernism have given it a great success, establishing the Baume & Mercier hallmark aesthetic that can still be seen today. The launch of the Hampton Collection at Watches And Wonders 2022 exemplifies this spirit.
A Fifties Look
Hampton takes a risky foray into the world of historical design. The inseparability of the case from the strap that adorns it is one of the reasons why the collection's distinctive, iconic case continues to astonish. Mesh is unrivalled in its ability to generate a continuous line of smooth curves along which the light can pass. It takes an experienced Italian method dating back to the 17th century to weave these lengthy strands of steel into a sophisticated weave. Milano mesh watch straps, on the other hand, really came into their own during the 1950s. This thin metal weave, which is articulated down to each soldered junction, has an exquisite elasticity and comfort thanks to the long, meticulous labour of goldsmiths.
Hampton updates the Milano mesh strap with a tight weave in polished / satin-finished steel that wraps around the wrist like a second skin. Art Deco meets Italian workmanship in this delightfully nostalgic design. The watch features an exquisite medium-sized polished stainless-steel case and either a self-winding or a very long-lasting quartz mechanism.
Hampton Medium – M0A10672
The dial of the self-winding version is opaline and grained silver. Its black ruthenium Arabic numbers and indexes are riveted for an even more vintage look. The design incorporates Art Deco geometry once more. The delicate black-and-grey minute track is gently swept by the black ruthenium "glaive" hands. The sapphire back exposes beautiful watchmaking details along with the movement, which has a power reserve of 38 hours. The lovely circular-grained bridges, the sand-blasted and snailed baseplate, and the "Côtes de Genève" and snailed ornaments that adorn the oscillating weight all capture the eye.
A Glamorous Spirit
The Hampton was revived by Baume & Mercier two years ago. The curves and corners have been revised for a more contemporary look, while the watches maintain the distinctive design that has brought the collection so much success. This year, the Brand offers two popular models with variants that will delight any fan of beautiful goods. These two watches, each with a more conventional appeal on a leather band, assert gentle lines and beautiful details, making them important to the collection.
Hampton Medium – M0A10670
The second – medium-sized – version is equipped with a long-lasting quartz movement. It features a brown calfskin strap with trendy beige overstitching which coordinates perfectly with the polished steel case. Its rectangular shape is accentuated by a set of grey rectangles that stretch outwards as if seeking to surpass all limits. The geometric effect and Art Deco depth draw the eye along the grey minute track which runs around the perimeter of the opaline silver dial. Riveted rhodium-plated Arabic numerals and indexes appear on it, and are indicated by delicate “glaive” hands. Its screwed back allows space for the engraving of a happy memory, date or accomplishment. This is a refined watch for any occasion.
This autumn, the Hampton takes a risk with an unusual mix of materials and colours. A slim silhouette, clean lines, and bold colours... In the interest of fashion, these stunningly fashionable tiny jewels will vanish quickly this autumn! They are not to be missed. Keep an eye out…
