The story of Baume & Mercier begins in 1830, when brothers Louis-Victor and Célestin Baume established Frères Baume in the Swiss Jura. Their reputation for precision quickly expanded internationally through Baume Brothers in London, supplying watches throughout the British Empire. In 1918, William Baume partnered with Paul Mercier to establish Baume & Mercier in Geneva, ushering in a new era focused on elegant wristwatches. Just one year later, the maison received the prestigious Geneva Seal, one of watchmaking's highest distinctions.

Throughout the twentieth century, Baume & Mercier became known for combining refined aesthetics with accessible luxury. The launch of the Riviera in 1973 established the company as an early pioneer of luxury steel sports watches, while the introduction of the Baumatic manufacture movement in 2018 demonstrated the brand's continued investment in technical innovation. Today, Baume & Mercier remains one of Swiss watchmaking's strongest value propositions within the luxury segment.

Key Milestones:
• 1830: Frères Baume founded by Louis-Victor and Célestin Baume.
• 1918: William Baume and Paul Mercier establish Baume & Mercier.
• 1919: Awarded the prestigious Geneva Seal.
• 1973: Launch of the iconic Riviera, one of the first luxury steel sports watches.
• 2018: Introduction of the Baumatic manufacture movement featuring a 120-hour power reserve.
• 2026: At Watches & Wonders 2026, Baume & Mercier introduced the Riviera 73 collection celebrating the original 1973 design, expanded the Joia jewelry watch line, and unveiled new Classima automatic models.

Baume & Mercier continues demonstrating that refined Swiss watchmaking can remain elegant, technically accomplished, and accessible without compromising quality.