Baume et Mercier Vintage Chronograph - Advice Needed

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FRaulier

·May 27, 2018

I have recently come across this B&M advertised as being late 60s / early 70s which looks to be in superb condition, and the seller has explicitly confirmed that the dial is original. Not that cheap (£795 asking price) so I would like to get some expert opinion before considering it further... I would also be particularly interested in knowing more about the movement. It is signed Baume et Mercier but the seller is unable to tell me which movement it actually is. From the photograph there does appear to be a reference number but I am struggling to read it. Any comments gratefully received.

 

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Seaman

·May 27, 2018

Looks like 1073..everything looks Ok for my eyes.

 

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FRaulier

·May 28, 2018

That's very encouraging - thanks Seaman!

 

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gop76

·May 28, 2018

It looks more from the 80's/90's than 60's/70's

The movement is a Lemania 1873, also used, among many others, on the Speedmaster (cal. 861)

 

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FRaulier

·May 28, 2018

Excellent information about the movement. Many thanks.

What makes you think it's a later watch? From what I read about the Lemania 1873, it was manufactured during the 70s, so it would tie in with the period mentioned by the seller...

 

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gop76

·May 28, 2018

I have no certainties but it doesn't look a 60's or 70's design...

 

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Dan S

·May 28, 2018

The case-back appears to be laser-engraved in that photo.

 

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Maganator

·May 28, 2018

I would agree with those who think that this is from the late 80s or 90s. The case back does look laser engraved and the design looks like a modern interpretation of a vintage chronograph.

 

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Foo2rama

·May 28, 2018·Nowhere near as grumpy as he used to be...

F FRaulier

Excellent information about the movement. Many thanks.

What makes you think it's a later watch? From what I read about the Lemania 1873, it was manufactured during the 70s, so it would tie in with the period mentioned by the seller...

gop76

It looks more from the 80's/90's than 60's/70's

The movement is a Lemania 1873, also used, among many others, on the Speedmaster (cal. 861)

Pre 90’s 17 jewel marked 17 jewel varient of the movement. Puts it pre 1990 but that’s not conclusive.

About 1988 they got the 18th jewel as shown in Speedies and Sinn 903’s. About 1990 the bridge was updated to say 18 jewels.

It’s possible B&M had movements sitting around for a few years so it might be a later watch.

Edited: May 28, 2018

 

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dragoman

·May 28, 2018

It's a smallish watch, mind you, about 33mm - my wife has a blue one.