Baume & Mercier's signature line, the Hampton, is an expression of watch-making philosophy that, as Edward Wright puts it, is about "classical design that is just on the cusp of fashion."

Inspired by a rectangular Baume & Mercier watch of the 1960's, the first rectangular steel Hampton watch was launched in 1994. It has long been the classic "tank watch," and has proved to be one of Baume & Mercier's best-selling creations. The Hampton's dial dimensions fall elegantly into the golden ratio of 1-to-1.6180339, which is also referred to as the "divine proportion." The symbol for Phi, which Baume & Mercier has adopted as its own, is the Greek symbol for the golden ratio, and refers to perfection and balance. The success of the Hampton begat the Hampton Spirit in 2002, which pioneered the trend toward east-west tank-shaped dials.

The Hampton name, however, represents more than a stylish timepiece. It's also a reference to a certain lifestyle, namely the laid-back, carefree spirit of the Hamptons, the beach resort area of New York's Long Island. Baume & Mercier compares this locale to its design philosophy: the combination of traditional charm, reflected in the old wooden beach houses and year-round residents mixed with the fresh summer influx of refuge-seeking New Yorkers: a perfect equilibrium of tradition and modernity.

The Hampton Spirit is designed for discerning men and women who admire pure lines and beautiful materials and appreciate wearing an elegant timepiece every day of their life.