Introducing: The Baume & Mercier Clifton Moon-Phase Date

Quick Take

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 – 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 Date
Reference Number: M0A10552

Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 13.2mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial Color: White
Indexes: Rhodium-plated riveted trapezoid-shaped
Lume: No
Water Resistance: 50m
Strap/Bracelet: Alligator leather strap or stainless steel bracelet

The Movement

Caliber: BAUMATIC BM14 1975 AC1
Functions: H/M/S, moon phase, date
Thickness: 5.7 mm
Power Reserve: Five days
Winding: Self-winding
Frequency: 4 Hz
Jewels: 21
Chronometer Certified: No
Additional Details: Open-worked oscillating weight adorned with “Côtes de Genève” and snailed decors, Baume & Mercier engravings