Summary

Automatic wristwatch, by Baume & Mercier, Geneva, Switzerland, 2012.

In 2012, Baume et Mercier celebrated its 160th anniversary in Australia. To mark the occasion, the company launched a limited edition Classima wrist watch, and curated an exhibition which was hosted by their official retailers in Sydney and Melbourne. A number of historical timepieces were displayed, alongside images and artefacts from the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition (MIE).

Baume & Co was a key exhibitor in the Swiss Court at the Melbourne International Exhibition. Though occupying a small area, the Swiss Court had a prominent position on the grand avenue of the temporary annexe, a favourite area for promenading. The entrance to the court was dressed like a Swiss chalet, with carved wood-work and picturesque gables. Over this hung the coat-of-arms of the confederation - a plain white cross on a red ground - with the national motto 'one for all and all for one'.

The largest and finest display in the Swiss Court was undoubtedly its timepieces. The exhibit by 33 watch makers was valued at £14,000 (just over $1 million at 2012 exchange rates). It was noted in the official catalogue that watch making 'has been one of the most important industries of Switzerland for more than a century, and at present it gives employment to nearly 40,000 men'. So important was watch making to the Swiss economy, the Swiss commission published a photo book illustrating production methods, which it presented as a gift to the Victorian commissioners of the MIE.

Baume's handsome show case of black and gold, lined in dark crimson velvet, was prominently positioned at the centre of the Swiss Court. On display were keyless chronometers, keyless perpetual calendars, keyless chronographs, and quarter repeaters. The Horolgoical jury said of the Baume display: 'These are hand-made watches of the best quality, and their external appearance and workmanship are admirable.'

Overall Baume was awarded third order of merit and a certificate, while the Swiss watch collective was awarded first prize and a certificate.

Current brand manager for Baume et Mercier in Australia, Mathilde Percheron, was keen to emphasise Baume & Co's participation at the MIE in the 160th anniversary exhibition and related publications. Museum Victoria, as custodians of the Royal Exhibition Building (venue of the MIE), lent a number of collection pieces to the exhibition, and senior curator Charlotte Smith spoke at exhibition events in Sydney and Melbourne. This Classima 160th anniversary watch was donated to Museum Victoria as a thank you for its support of Baume et Mercier's celebrations.

Physical Description

Automatic movement, stainless steel case, crystal window in face and back of case. In boxed presentation case, with booklet.

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