The Classima line integrates the genuineness of Baume & Mercier’s watchmaking proficiency with an evergreen design that provides a classic and prudent grandeur. Baume & Mercier has some exceptional models, but the 2019 Classima line with three new models has garnered our interest. They categorically present a complete calendar, a dual time display and a small seconds that further solidify the outstanding watchmaking persona of this symbolic collection.
These new Classima models display three complexities tailored towards modern man: functional though polished. It is an urban adventurer. The watchmaking industry calls them “small complications,” which means comfortable for daily living, simple to use, and appropriate in every situation.
Each model has a luminous deep-blue dial – a broadly known hue among watch designers – that complements with a “grain d’orge” decoration. The mechanical calibre of these watches is automatic. The movement is covered with sapphire glass and a case of 42mm stainless steel. The Classima is designed with damaskeening technique and Baume & Mercier’s famous Phi logo. Every variant comes with a matte alligator strap or a stainless steel bracelet providing a sleek and stylish placement on the wrist.
Dial
This beautiful timepiece is by far one of the most essentials for people travelling across time zones, or solely for keeping track of time around the world. This elegant watch uses a classic Classima three-hand-date version as its departure point. The simpler versions also have the usual Roman numerals and minute track. The Dual Time shows the second time zone on a middle ring with a 24-hour scale.
For the Classima Chronograph Complete Calendar, model unites two important components: the choreography and the complete calendar. This double complication allows contemporary excellence to usher in the first action into the fantastic world of conventional watchmaking.is a multi-part timepiece. Amazingly, it showcases both the calendar and the chronograph functions and hours, minutes and small seconds at nine o’clock.
It has a 24-hour indication that shows a plain difference between AM and PM. While staying true to the tradition, the days and months are located in the window at twelve o’clock. The date is showcased on the edge of the dial by an extra central hand. On top of these amazing features is the moon phases (29.5) that are seen at six o’clock.
Watchmakers have numerous methods of crafting seconds on a dial. Among these, the most popular is the Classima Small Seconds model. The dial on this timepiece has a hand at the middle that rotates around the dial every minute. The centre features the barleycorn decor, a snailed hours ring and Roman numerals. In terms of popularity, this timepiece is closely followed because of the small seconds.
The seconds are indicated on the alternative dial fixed at six o’clock. This watch is advanced, detailed, and highly referenced by enthusiasts of exceptional timepieces. It showcases the date in a window. This essential feature is a spent addition to this beautiful yet overlooked Classima. This offering completes the Classima Small Seconds.
This timepiece is remarked as a watch-instrument because of the type of data shown on this dial. Dual Time holds its own, outstanding and undoubtedly acknowledged an essential for the world’s travellers. The date is located in a window usually found at three o’clock. This Classima steps above its peers by presenting a dual time complication. Which means there is an extra central hand that indicates a second time zone in an elegant, easy-to-read way; it is placed around six o’clock.
Case
The case for all models follows a similar has a circular structure. They all have a polished stainless steel case measured at 42mm diameter and 9.15mm thickness. The caseback is sapphire crystal while scratch-resistant—quite an enduring watch.
It is a self-winding watch driven by the ETA 2893-2 movement. Its frequency vibrates at 4Hz (28800 vph). It possesses 21 jewels. The power reserve is 42-hours, and its water-resistant capacity is at 5 ATM (approx. 50m). The reference number: M0A10482 or M0A10483.
For the Classima Chronograph Complete Calendar model, the time, day, month and moon phase are all placed through the crown for easy readability. This case features a corrector button at nine o’clock; it enhances the day of the week function and provides a necessary small tool in the package. As seen on the opposite side, the watch uses the Valjoux 7751 automatic movement. It features a 48-hour power reserve, and rotor designed with Genève lines. The whole appearance is very alluring.
The Classima Small Seconds model uses the Sellita SW 260-1 movement to drive this self-winding watch. The rotor features its Genève stripes, both can be seen through the sapphire crystal on the opposite side. This model also features a 38-hour power reserve, and 50 m water-resistant we are a little disappointed with the power reserve battery.
Wearability
All Classima models come with either an alligator leather strap or a polished stainless steel bracelet. These are complimented with a buckle that features adjustable triple-folding and security push-pieces. Its strap system is also very simple to replace. The Classima Small Seconds although the same size as the other two models, is a little bit thinner at 10mm making it a more fitting dress-watch.
Price
The Classima Dual Time model with triple-folding clasp starts from £2,360. Whilst the steel case and steel bracelet model (Ref. 10483) or the steel/leather strap variant (Ref. 10482) cost marginally less at £2,270.
The Classima Chronograph Complete Calendar has set prices, but it may be worth looking around for the best service. The integrated steel bracelet or black alligator leather version with triple-folding clasp starts from around £3,610. The steel case with a steel bracelet model (Ref. 10485) and steel/leather strap (Ref. 10484) is around the same price at £3,700.
Classima Small Seconds with the integrated steel bracelet or interchangeable black alligator strap with triple folding clasp starts at only £1,970. Choosing the steel case with steel bracelet variant has a starting price of around £2,200.
If you are looking for something that stands out a bit more however, the Classima 10271 Automatic Watch with Date (39mm) is a strong recommendation. It sports an 18K gold case which is luxurious but unpretentious. It features gilt indexes and hands and starts from only £4,700. All Classima watches are also available with free engraving which is a great personal touch for any gift ideas.
