Baume & Mercier 'Lucchetto' Padlock

There are watches that tell time, and there are watches that tell stories.

This remarkable Baume & Mercier Lucchetto belongs firmly to the latter category. Produced during the golden age of postwar design, it transforms an everyday object—the humble padlock—into an elegant piece of wearable sculpture. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, its distinctive rectangular case is suspended within a graceful arched frame, creating the unmistakable silhouette that gives the Lucchetto its name, the Italian word for "padlock."

At just 21mm across, the watch possesses all the refinement one expects from a mid-century ladies' dress watch, yet its unconventional design sets it apart from nearly everything produced during the era. The silvered dial is beautifully restrained, featuring applied gold baton indices and matching hands, allowing the unique architecture of the case to remain the focal point. Viewed from the side, the watch feels almost like a miniature piece of modernist jewelry—an object designed as much to delight as to inform.

Founded in 1830, Baume & Mercier has long occupied a unique place in Swiss watchmaking, balancing technical expertise with a strong appreciation for design and aesthetics. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the firm produced a number of imaginative jewelry watches that reflected the optimism and creativity of the period, and the Lucchetto remains among the most charming examples.

Powering this piece is a manually wound movement housed within its 18K yellow gold case, while a black leather strap and matching gold buckle complete the presentation. More than sixty years after its creation, the Lucchetto remains a wonderful reminder that some of the most memorable watches are the ones willing to be a little playful.

Equal parts watch, jewel, and conversation piece, it is a delightful expression of mid-century creativity from one of Switzerland's most enduring names.

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Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.