Introducing The Baume & Mercier Hampton Big Date Dual Time

Launched alongside several other new models for their (now digital-only) Watches & Wonders offering, Baume & Mercier has created a version of their rectangular Hampton watch that boasts both a big date and a nicely executed dual time display. Supported by a well-proportioned steel case, this Hampton offers function and form that are outside the norm. 

Clearly inspired by the endless charm of the Art Deco period, this Hampton manages a Reverso-esque feel without getting too close for comfort. Its polished steel case is 31mm wide and 48mm lug to lug (for reference, a "large" Cartier Tank Louis Cartier is 25.5 x 33.7, so the Hampton is very rectangular), and its dial mixes opaline and grained silver finishing to offer strong legibility when applied in conjunction with the dark ruthenium-finished hands and markers. 

With strong dial balance protected by a big date display below 12 and a circular subdial showing a combined dual time and day/night indication at six, the Hampton Big Date Dual Time has a lot to offer for those that need an elegant way of tracking a second time zone and a quick view of the date. All of that functionality is supported by a Swiss-made Soprod TT651 movement, which, thanks to the display caseback, can be seen running at 4 Hz and offering a power reserve of 42 hours.  

Priced at CHF 3,650, the Baume & Mercier Hampton Big Date Dual Time offers an uncommon rectangular format with modern proportions and a strong function set. For a dressier office setting, this would make an excellent 9-to-5 watch, and the inclusion of quick-change strap fittings means you could easily maintain properly matched leather colors. Also, is it just me, or does "Baume & Mercier" just feel so at home on a rectangular dial?

Brand: Baume & Mercier
Model: Hampton Big Date Dual Time
Reference Number: M0A10523

Diameter: 31 x 48mm
Thickness: 10.8mm
Case Material: Steel
Dial Color: Opaline and grained silver
Indexes: Applied, ruthenium finish
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Quick change black alligator strap

Caliber: Soprod TT651
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, big date, second time zone on subdial with day/night display.
Thickness: 5.25mm
Power Reserve: 42 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 vph
Jewels: 21

Price: CHF 3,650
Availability: April 2020

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