Written by: Catherine Wolinski
The new Baume et Mercier Capeland model
As many luxury watch aficionados know, last Friday, Jan. 20, marked the conclusion of SIHH, or the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie. In simplest terms, the SIHH is the annual event in which watchmakers an designers are invited to showcase their latest innovations. To date, the SIHH has held over 20 shows, proving its relevance for the fine watch sector of fashion. At this year’s conference, which took place between Jan. 16-20, one of the industry leaders that grabbed the attention of watch connoisseurs was Baume et Mercier, which introduced a new piece this year.
While SIHH 2011 saw the introduction of Baume & Mercier’s Capeland Flyback Chronograph, SIHH 2012 met a new contender of the collection—the same model with a few tweaks, namely a change in color. The new-yet-classic Capeland bears a black, rather than white, dial face, giving a fresh look to the old timepiece. Further aesthetic adjustments included a new layout with two registers (last year’s had 3) and gilt Breguet style hands that emphasize its vintage feel. The new model is otherwise the same, available in stainless steel or red gold, a diameter of 44 millimeters and thickness of 16 millimeters. The chronograph movement inside is a La Joux-Perret automatic bi-compax complete with flyback and date, and runs at 28,800, and boasts a power-reserve of 48 hours.
The new Baume et Mercier Capeland introduced at this year's SIHH
As a final touch, the piece is appropriately engraved with the Greek letter Phi, a symbol of balance and perfection. The model seems to achieve an equilibrium between loyalty to its past, and functionality in its future. The new Capeland does not stray too far from its ancestor chronograph introduced in 1948, yet it also succeeds in maintaining modern expectations of a luxury timepiece, and a somewhat shocking change in face color.
Presenters in Geneva this year at the 2012 Salon International de la Haute Horlgerie, which takes place in Geneva, Switzerland, were likely not shy to reintroduce themselves to fellow watch manufacturers and designers. The new look seems only to reinforce the poise of a brand that simultaneously upholds its traditional values while sustaining contemporary qualities.
From:Luxury Watches That Impress Review Blog
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