William Baume Retrograde Second Limited Edition 08840

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.