Hands-on: New Baume & Mercier Riviera 39mm & Riviera Azur

Text/image: Aleksandar Mladenovic

At Watches & Wonders in Geneva Baume & Mercier present the latest additions to the Riviera collection. The model turns 50 this year and a range of new releases are presented – first and foremost the new case size 39mm but also a rock-hard diver in the form of Riviera Azur.

Baume & Mercier Riviera 39mm

The model which was launched for the first time in 1973 and the fifth generation Riviera was released in 2021. Since then they have released several different models with different complications. We previously wrote about the model's history which you can read more about here

In the range a size between the 36mm large Riviera and 42mm has previously been missing, here the new size of 39mm fills a void for those who have felt that 36mm is too small and 42mm too big. The thickness of the new model is just over 10mm and the size will probably really appeal to a wider audience.

They launch three new models in the new size: two in steel with a dial in blue or grey sapphire crystal that is semi-transparent with a discreet wave pattern and the third with a case in steel, crystal ring in sandblasted titanium with 5N rose gold plating, this one too with a smoky grey dial.

Otherwise most of it is the same, the watches are still just as ”sporty chic” with the characteristic twelve-sided crystal ring with 4 screws. Switching between steel bracelet, rubber strap and leather strap is as usual not a problem thanks to their ”quick switch” system and it is quick to change the watches' appearance depending on whether you are going to wear them to the beach or to the meeting at the office.

Naturally all three of the new releases are driven by the in-house movement Baumatic with 5 days power reserve, an accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per day and which withstands magnetism up to 1500 gauss.

The model is also water resistant down to 100m and has a case back with sapphire crystal which gives a clear insight into the mechanics.

Baume & Mercier Riviera Azur

In addition to the new 39mm Riviera, Baume & Mercier also release a completely new diver – Riviera Azur. Inspired by the French riviera that the name alludes to.

The cases measure 42mm, are 12mm thick and are made in steel. The bezel has an insert in anodised aluminium and the watches are tight down to 300m.

The model comes in two versions with a smoky grey or blue dial which is thus semi-transparent like the other models in the series with the Baumatic movements. On this model they also have an open back and nowadays all watches with Baumatic movements come with a full 8-year warranty.

Read more about the watches at Baume & Mercier