Baume & Mercier releases a new Riviera model recalling the original Riviera released in 1973.
The new Riviera 73 features a 7.7mm thick case measuring 39mm wide. Utilising a quartz calibre like the original Riviera, this model also removes the visible bezel screws
All three variations of the Baume & Mercier Riviera 73 are now available. The Riviera 73 on a bracelet has a retail price of AU$2,900 and AU$2,690 on a leather strap.
Baume & Mercier was pretty quick to get on the integrated bracelet trend back in the day, releasing the first Riviera in 1973. True to the era, these models utilised quartz movements. With the second generation of the model, capitalising even further on quartz technology, releasing ultra-thin and complicated models, still based on quartz calibres. Baume & Mercier released the current generation of Riviera models in 2021, bringing the dodecagonal design language of the original into the modern era, releasing a mixture of quartz and automatic models, with a slew of mechanically complicated models, including chronographs, GMTs, and even two limited perpetual calendar models. For 2026, Baume & Mercier is going back to the original for inspiration, unveiling the new Riviera 73.
Overall, the new Riviera 73 features a sleeker, more elegant design compared to other models in the current range. The exposed screws on the bezel have been removed, leaving the outward radiating brushed finish uninterrupted, making a clear reference to the first generation of Riviera models. The stainless steel case measures 39mm in diameter and 7.7mm thick, emphasising a more elegant side of the Riviera design. The textured dial features a wave design and is available in either sun-satin blue or opaline white. Functions include hours, minutes, and the date at three o’clock. The dial features stick indices, with Roman numerals for twelve and six o’clock, and the hours and minutes hands feature a skeletonised design. The white dial has ruthenium hands and indices, and the blue dial has rhodium-plated hands and indices. Covering the dial is a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, and the time is adjusted via an octagonal crown embossed with Baume & Mercier’s Phi logo.
The integrated bracelet design of the current generation of Riviera models carries over here, featuring a three-ink design, three-fold clasp with security pushers, and quick-release spring bars for easy swapping between the optional straps Baume & Mercier offers. The blue dial is also available with a matching blue leather strap and comes with a stainless steel pin-buckle. The solid case back features engraved vertical striping meant to evoke the teak decks on boats, with “73” in the centre done in 1970s-inspired font. Behind the case back is a quartz ETA F06.115 with a stated battery life of 5 years. Keeping with the casual aquatic usage theme, the case is water resistant to 50 meters.
As interest in 1970s-inspired watches extends beyond integrated bracelet designs, including funky thin quartz models, it seems that Baume & Mercier is testing the waters of this direction with the Riviera 73. Thin integrated sport watches were the main market focus back when they were originally released, and there is value in having a watch that is consistently showing the correct time without being wound. A comfortable, reliable, and durable watch is sometimes all someones wants or needs, and the new Baume & Mercier Riviera 73 delivers on those fronts.
Baume & Mercier Rivier 73 Pricing and Availability
The Baume & Mercier Riviera 73 is now available. The Riviera 73 has a retail price of AUD$2,900 on a bracelet and AU$2,690 for the blue dial on a leather strap.
Brand
Baume & Mercier
Model
Riviera 73
Reference Number
M0A10844 Blue dial, steel bracelet
M0A10845 White dial, steel bracelet
M0A10846 Blue dial, leather strap
Case Dimensions
39mm (D) x 7.7mm (T)
Case Material
Stainless steel
Water Resistance
50 metres
Crystal(s)
Sapphire
Dial
Blue or white
Lug Width
Integrated
Strap
Steel bracelet, triple folding clasp
Blue calfskin strap,
Movement
ETA F06.115, quartz
Battery Life
5 years
Functions
Hours, minutes, date
Availability
Now
Price
AU$2,900 on a bracelet
AU$2,690 for the blue dial on a leather strap