2009 William Baume Collection

William Baume Retrograde Second
The retrograde seconds function divides time in two: its large hand counts off 30 seconds across a
graduated arc of a circle, before jumping instantly back to its starting point to begin measuring the 30
following seconds. Originally invented to save space on the dial for the display of numerous complications, it
also provides a fascinating visual treat by performing its fascinating ballet. For this retrograding interpretation
of the William Baume collection, the small seconds display is highlighted by a “serpentine” shaped hand in a
30-second sector in the lower part of the dial. This model also features a large date at 12 o’clock, a
complication serving to display large date numerals by using two separate disks for the tens and the units.
This new edition of the William Baume Retrograde Second watch is distinguished from the first version by its
black dial and its black hand-stitched alligator strap. Its mechanical self-winding movement may be admired
through the broad sapphire crystal window in the case-back, revealing the circular-grained finish on the
mainplate and bridges, the snailed barrel, the blued steel screws and the openworked oscillating weight
adorned with “Côtes de Genève” and stamped with the Baume & Mercier “Phi” symbol. Its 18K red gold case
comes in a 41 mm XL size. Limited, numbered edition of 179 watches.
2009 William Baume Collection Press Release ( 8801-8802-8840-8841) Baume & Mercier ®, all rights reserved 2009