HANDS-ON: Baume & Mercier take us to the moon with the Riviera Phases de Lune
Ricardo SimeThe Baume and Mercier Riviera is fast becoming one of my favourite integrated sports watches. In a sea of watches that have recently jumped on the bandwagon, the Riviera has a ton of history behind it. They first hit the scene in all their quartz glory back in 1973 and, in nearly 50 years, have seen five iterations of this storied design. But the book doesn’t stop there as now one of the most classic and romantic complications comes to this sporty creation in the form of the new Riviera Baumatic “Phases de Lune”.
The case
The Riviera Phases de Lune comes in the 43mm wide case we saw with the recently released chronograph. However, it’s not as thick at just 12.3mm. As for the finishing, it has a mix of satin brushed and polished surfaces, perfectly riding that line between casual and sporty. You also need not worry about water resistance as it comes with a solid 100 metres of it.
On wrist, the watch has a strong presence. It benefits tremendously from the integrated design, taking the 43mm large size and slimming it down through the smooth transition from case to bracelet.
The dial
The case also does a great job of highlighting the most attractive feature of the watch, the dial.
It’s this beautiful mixture of blue with points of green and a sunburst finish. Looking at it, you’re reminded of blue/green ocean waters by a coastline. Before you let that imagery put you in a trance, move in closer to check out that pointer date sub dial. It contains the main attraction of the whole watch, the moon phase.
My favourite part of this execution is how the moons are hidden behind the smoky glass. It’s always there and visible even if you don’t clearly see it, much like the real satellite.
The strap
Securing all this to your wrist is the Riviera three-link bracelet. It features the same mixture of finishes as the case as well a strong taper with a triple folding clasp.
The best part of the strap though would have to be the push-button quick-change system. It allows you to make a fast switch so you can also enjoy one of Baume and Mercier’s rubber straps.
The movement
Powering the Riviera Phases de Lune is the brand’s manufacture Baumatic movement. It beats at 28,800 bph and offers a 120 hour power reserve which is way above industry standards. This equates to five days standby on a full wind. Which is great in a world where many collectors have four or five pieces, so the benefits of this can’t be overstated.
The verdict
Manufacture movement. Five day power reserve. Sporty robust case. Beautiful dial. There is so much to offer here.
It’s also interesting seeing this classic and traditional complication in such a sporty package. On first thought one may think it wouldn’t work. But with the Riviera Phases de Lune, it all comes together quite nicely.
Baume and Mercier Riviera Phases De Lune pricing and availability:
The Baume and Mercier Riviera “Phases de Lune” is now available on the brand’s website. Price: AUD$7,600
| Brand | Baume and Mercier |
| Model | Riviera Phases De Lune 10682 |
| Case Dimensions | 43mm x 12.3mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Water Resistance | 100m |
| Dial | Blue with Green |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal on front and case back |
| Strap | Stainless Steel Triple folding clasp with security push-pieces |
| Movement | Baumatic |
| Power Reserve | 120 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date and moon phase |
| Availability | Now |
| Price | AUD$7,600 |