The launch of the new Baumatic caliber BM12-1975A reminds me of when the Tissot debuted the Powermatic 80 in 2013. At the time 80-hours was a huge power reserve, especially for a watch costing under $1,000.

Five years later, while the price is higher, the Baumatic comes with a 50% larger power reserve (120-hours), higher accuracy (COSC chronometer level -4/+6), higher quality components, a more advanced free-sprung balance wheel, silicon hairspring, significantly better finishing, and so on.

The caliber beats at a modern rate of 4Hz (28,800 vph), has 21 jewels, is anti-magnetic to 1500 gauss, and has a design similar to an ETA 2824, although the Baume caliber is a bit wider and thinner than the ETA.

Naturally, Baume can design future movements with added functionality around this ValFleurier manufactured 5-day movement. Not to mention, since ValFleurier is owned by the Richemont Group, it will likely make its way into some of Baume’s sister brands such as Montblanc or IWC.

This movement is a major coup for Baume & Mercier for sure.

The Clifton Baumatic 5-Day Chronometer comes in 40 mm x 10.3 mm stainless steel case with a white (or black) cross-hair dial with facetted Lance-shaped hour and minute hands, a black baton-shaped central seconds hand and facetted applied indices. Richemont says the watch can operate longer than 5 years without needing service. Water-resistance is 50 meters.

Available beginning September 2018 for a retail price of $2,790. Learn more at Baume & Mercier.