Intro
The Riviera collection boasts an impressive number of references, possibly the most extensive in its category among mainstream brands, as it builds on an industrial platform that includes both in-house and non in-house technical options, ranging from Baumatic to Sellita and La Joux-Perret.
Can, therefore, any potential Riviera access a more exclusive Riviera? Yes, he can because Baume & Mercier has recurrently introduced ultra-exclusive models, and 2025 is no different, with an ultra-limited edition model.
Please welcome the 73-piece Riviera Flyback 10828
Please remember the above-mentioned reference number. We had to wait after Watches and Wonders to see the Flyback model take over the new Panda Chrono, but it paid off.
There you have it; the brand introduced a 73-piece limited-edition watch to commemorate the year the first-ever Riviera was introduced. In figures, that’s a collector’s piece, whether you like a Riviera or not.
The Riviera Flyback 10828 is the bi-compax take on a chronograph often seen with a three-register layout. Expect the unexpected from Baume & Mercier, as proven by two batches of Baumatic-based perpetual calendars; pictured below is the second iteration.
It confirms that the brand’s marketing regularly releases exclusive series to foster awareness of the brand and its collections, and capture current and new customers looking for that extra touch from a Riviera.
However, nothing can compare with the Haute Horlogerie Cliftons introduced back in the day, whose proposition was legendary; I’m still browsing the net to add a gold Perpetual Calendar to my personal collection.
The new Flyback cleverly blends modern and vintage elements, preserving the Riviera’s design codes while featuring a dial reminiscent of the two-counter chronographs of the late 19th century.
Contrasting with each other, they highlight the gold-tone dial and a double telemetric and tachymetric scale. Roman numerals and applied indexes filled with luminescent material complete an exquisite package, helping you pass over the 14.24 mm thickness, an area of improvement.
Under the hood is a well-known mechanical movement, a La Joux-Perret 8147 seen in a Capeland Chronograph Flyback ever since.
Search for that timepiece and you’ll see first-hand the same dial design. However, the watch would deserve a column wheel mechanism, at a €8,200 tag price, but an ultra-limited production and eye-catching design will help remove such a topic from your priority list.
The option you didn’t expect: Riviera 10822
Here is where a 39mm Riviera 10822 kicks in, as a first choice or an option. Forget the 42mm model and head to a 39mm instead.
The Riviera reference 10822 is available as a 39mm model. If you’re looking for the closest thing to a vintage Riviera, head over here.
A thinner bezel makes the silhouette sleeker, and a 10.21 mm thickness slims the 42 mm model down.
Mix things up, including a gold-toned dial, again. Here’s a watch that outperforms any 42 mm with the same technical specs.
Powering the watch is the tried-and-tested Baumatic movement, which features a five-day power reserve. At almost half the price of a Flyback – 4.100 € – you get a three-hand Riviera with similar vibes.
(Photo credit: Horbiter®)
Gaetano C @Horbiter®
