Baume & Mercier His & Hers Hampton
To design a timepiece like an art object… It takes a visionary spirit with a love for shapes and volumes to conceive of ultra-slim pocket watches for men and jewelry watches for women to wear as rings or necklaces. Beginning in the 1920s, Paul Mercier, backed by the technical expertise of William Baume, captured the essence of the social progress of the times. The Maison’s inherent creativity and modernity have brought it resounding success, marking the signature look of Baume & Mercier that is still visible today.
The rectangular timepiece has long been associated with silver screen glamour and the most stylish through out history. Truman Capote was famously an avid fan of the Cartier Tank. Joining him in this passion were the likes of Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant.
Beyond association with the uber stylish, rectangular timepieces represent an engineering success. The rectangular shape means square edges internally, which require perfect fits.
One of Hardy Brothers' favourite rectangular timepieces, the Baume & Mercier Hampton, dares a deep-dive into historical style. One reason that the distinctive, iconic case of this collection continues to surprise is because it is inseparable from the strap that adorns it. There is nothing like mesh to create a continuity of soft curves that the light slips along. Machining these 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. The Baume & Mercier Hampton revisits the Milano mesh strap with a very tight weave in polished / satin-finished steel that nestles divinely against the wrist. In this irresistibly retro look, Art Deco meets Italian craftsmanship. With an elegant medium-sized polished stainless-steel case, the watch is equipped with either a self-winding movement or a very long-lasting quartz movement.
A stand out Hampton, perfect for Him or Her, is the Hampton 10672. In an elegant medium-sized polished stainless steel case, this new Hampton is the perfect His & Hers watch.
Baume & Mercier Hampton 10672
Learn more at https://www.baume-et-mercier.com/