Any information on this Baume & Mercier

[Tonic]

Hello, I am seeking some information on this vintage Baume et Mercier ladies wristwatch that was recently passed down to me. My mother purchased this in auction approximately 25 years ago. It is manual wind, and in working condition Wondering if anybody can estimate the date and value of this piece.

 

[Tonic]

Take the movement out and weigh it. The gold content is all it is worth other than the original sentimental value.

I've opened it and took some additional photos. Does this help in identifying when it was made?

 

[John Cote]

Nice blue Lapis dial. This looks like it might be large enough to still be worth something as a watch but probably not much more than the gold value.

 

[Tonic]

Nice blue Lapis dial. This looks like it might be large enough to still be worth something as a watch but probably not much more than the gold value.

Many thanks to all for your inputs. I'm not planning to sell it, just wanted to know a bit more about it. Most appreciated!

 

[FreetzGrün]

If that is indeed an "E" I can make out in the "FEG" in hexagon stamp that would likely indicate that this 18k case was manufactured for BM by Fernand Eggli, they are based out of Tramelan, though certainly had a satellite in Geneva in this era.

 

[FreetzGrün]

Sorry double post. Woops.

 

[MrRoundel]

Many designers, big and small, of that time used this ETA 251*. This bodes well for you in the event that it needs any parts should you ever have to bring it in for repair. I worked on one a few weeks back and was able to find new old stock parts on "the bay". Some watches aren't so lucky.

Your inheritance is a simple, but rather elegant ladies watch, to my eye. And there's a decent amount of 18k gold used between the case and the bracelet. Overall I think it's quite nice. Enjoy it with the associated memories and appreciation.

BTW, if you take to wearing it a lot, you should strongly consider getting it serviced before doing so too often. These watches have tiny pivots that ride in its jewels, which are harder, and if/when the oil dries, or dirt finds its way in, the pivots can be destroyed in not too long. But if you're just going to wear it to Xmas parties, and the like, a few times per year, you might get away with the occasional wind-up. Still, a service, if you can swing it, and find a good watchmaker near you, is advisable.

 

[Tonic]

Yes. This is why ETA still make movements. Theirs were amongst the better quality, even with cheapened processes.

Thanks everybody