The elegant dress watches of Baume & Mercier’s Hampton collection are all about Art Deco. Born in the early half of the 20th century, they have been a signature of the Geneva-based brand for decades. At this year’s Watches & Wonders, some particularly refined additions ? both mechanical and quartz ? equipped with mesh bracelets were presented. Machining long strands of steel into a skillful weave is an expert Italian technique that dates back to the 17th century. However, it was really during the 1950s that Milano mesh watch straps came into their own. The long, patient work of goldsmiths on this fine metal weave, which is articulated right down to its soldered joint, has brought it an exquisite suppleness and comfort, and is seen once more in these latest watches from Baume & Mercier.
Among the line-up for 2022, is this this Hampton Medium (M0A10672) that delights with an opaline and grained silver dial. Its riveted black ruthenium Arabic numerals and indexes highlight the vintage character. The black ruthenium ?glaive? hands gracefully sweep along the delicate black-and-gray minute track.

The sapphire case back reveals beautiful decorations of the movement based on ETA 2671, such as circular-grained bridges, a sand-blasted and snailed baseplate, and Geneva Waves and nailing on the oscillating weight. The stainless-steel timepiece has a diameter of 43 by 27.5mm and a height of 9.95mm. It retails for $2,800.

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