Baume Et Mercier White Gold Ellipse (Ref. 38297), 1970s

Dealer description — Huntington Company

History and Significance By the late 1970s and 1980s, Baume & Mercier leaned heavily into elegant dress-focused designs, often experimenting with softer case forms and jewelry-inspired proportions. The reference 38297 reflects that direction well, combining a minimalist dial with an elongated oval case and integrated loop-style lugs. The design is intentionally understated. Rather than relying on numerals or complications, the watch focuses entirely on shape, negative space, and proportion. The black dial creates strong contrast against the white gold case, while the sharply faceted hands add just enough visual tension to keep the watch from feeling overly delicate. The oval case also wears differently from its dimensions. While technically compact at 24mm, the elongated silhouette and open lug design give it a larger wrist presence than a traditional round dress watch of similar size. Writer’s Thoughts This feels much more like a design object than a traditional dress watch. The black dial is what makes it really special. Without any markers interrupting the surface, it almost disappears until the light catches the hands. It has a very clean and graphic look in person. The oval shape and loop lugs could have easily become excessive, but everything stays balanced and thin. It is the kind of watch that works best with very simple styling and lets the shape do all the talking. Our Promise Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity. Specifications Brand: Baume & Mercier Model: Oval (Ref. 38297) Year: circa 1990s Case Material: White gold Case Size: 24mm Bezel: White gold oval bezel Dial: Black minimalist dial Movement: Manual Strap/Bracelet: Generic leather strap Buckle/Clasp: Generic buckle Contents: Watch only Condition Case: Strong overall condition with light wear consistent with careful use. Dial: Clean with no visible imperfections. Hands: Excellent condition with no visible wear. Crystal: Clean with minor signs of wear visible under close inspection. Strap/Bracelet: Strap shows light wear consistent with use.