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Riviera 73: A Contemporary Tribute to a 1973 Icon

Riviera 73: A Contemporary Tribute to a 1973 Icon

At Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, Baume & Mercier unveils the Riviera 73, a refined new chapter within its iconic Riviera collection. Presented through three new 39 mm models, this release celebrates the spirit of the original Riviera launched in 1973 while reinterpreting its design language for today’s modern watch enthusiast.

Powered by a quartz movement, the Riviera 73 line focuses on clarity, balance, and architectural finesse, bringing together heritage and contemporary sophistication in a distinctly Riviera expression.

A Contemporary Vision of Riviera Elegance

The Riviera 73 revisits the bold aesthetic foundations of the first-generation Riviera introduced in 1973. From its inception, the Riviera stood apart with its distinctive silhouette and confident design philosophy, merging elegance with a sporty modern edge.

Its iconic dodecagonal case, a defining signature of the collection, introduced a striking geometric identity to watchmaking, while its balanced proportions and clean lines established a timeless visual language. The Riviera 73 carries this legacy forward, refining its original codes with a contemporary sensibility while remaining faithful to its roots.

The new Riviera 73 models (M0A10844, M0A10845, and M0A10845) feature a 39 mm case diameter and a slim 7.7 mm profile, ensuring harmonious proportions on the wrist. A dodecagonal bezel without visible screws and an open, uncluttered dial design highlight the purity of its form.

On the case back, each model carries a distinctive engraving of “73” set against vertical stripes inspired by a boat deck, accompanied by typography reminiscent of the 1970s, subtle details that honour the collection’s origins.

The History of the Riviera Collection

First created in 1973, the Riviera collection quickly established itself as one of the pioneering expressions of the sport-chic watch. Its bold dodecagonal case and integrated flat-link bracelet defined a recognisable identity that has endured for decades.

The original generation debuted with quartz technology and soon expanded into self-winding variations, demonstrating a commitment to both design and technical innovation.

In 1980, the second generation introduced bicolour executions and marked the first appearance of the “Riviera” name on the dial. By 1983, the collection evolved further with ultra-thin quartz innovation and advanced complications such as split-seconds, perpetual calendar, and dual time zones.

The 1985 generation refined the design language with softened edges, alternating polished and satin finishes, and a more discreet crown design to improve water resistance.

In 2004, the fourth generation offered two distinct identities, classic and sporty, with the latter defined by a screw-set bezel that reinforced its technical character.

The modern era began in 2021 with the fifth generation, re-establishing the Riviera as a contemporary icon through 36 mm and 42 mm models, including Baumatic-powered editions. The collection expanded further with 39 mm self-winding and Baumatic references, alongside 33 mm women’s models in both quartz and automatic executions. In 2025, chronograph versions joined the line-up, reinforcing its versatility and precision.

Riviera 73: Heritage, Reimagined

Today, the Riviera 73 continues this evolution, offering a modern interpretation rooted in the unmistakable design DNA of the original 1973 model. With its architectural case, refined proportions, and heritage-driven details, it stands as a confident expression of Riviera style, bridging past and present in a single, cohesive vision.

A celebration of design continuity and innovation, the Riviera 73 reaffirms the enduring spirit of the Riviera collection for a new generation.

Register your interest via the enquiry form to experience the Riviera 73 firsthand. Discover more timepieces from Baume & Mercier online or at our Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Gold Coast boutiques. Discover more about the Riviera 73 over on WatchAdvice here.


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