The launch of the Baltic Watches MR Roulette series has already taken place. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at four new models.
If you are a fan of retro watches and are not yet familiar with the Baltic brand, I highly recommend paying attention to it. The French company has been around since 2016 and specializes in affordable mechanical watches with a distinctly vintage style.
These values are particularly appealing to collectors interested in the new Baltic MR Roulette watches. Each model features a classic vintage design inspired by the aesthetics of the 1950s.
Specifically, Baltic draws inspiration from the Calatrava model created by Patek Philippe. This prestigious Swiss manufacturer is renowned for creating collectible watches that are worthwhile investments but remain expensive.
Baltic watches are a more affordable alternative, available in various design options. Among them are the new MR Roulette models with dials in salmon, blue, black, and silver shades.
Range of Available Baltic Watches
As mentioned, Baltic specializes in affordable watches with vintage designs. Most of the company's models fit this description, but there is one exception - the Aquascaphe.
Aquascaphe is a relatively modern model compared to the brand's other offerings. Nevertheless, it is among the most collectible Baltic models.
The most affordable are the watches from the HMS line. Their price ranges from 415 to 430 USD, equipped with central hour, minute, and second hands. Particularly notable is the HMS 002 Gold model, released in 2024 at a price of 385 euros.
The mid-price segment is occupied by the MR01 series. Watches from this line, as well as the Aquascaphe, cost between 650 and 850 USD. They feature an additional small seconds subdial, which is also present in the new MR Roulette.
Then there is a significant price jump. GMT versions of the Aquascaphe are priced at around 1000 USD, and chronographs at about 2000 USD.
This brief price overview shows that the brand divides its watches into diver models, classic wristwatches, and chronographs.
It is worth noting that Baltic exclusively produces mechanical models. This is an important aspect for those who prefer traditional mechanisms. Although I am not against quartz watches, with Baltic, you know exactly what to expect in terms of price and quality.
Before discussing the new MR Roulette models, it's worth telling the brand's history.
History of the Baltic Watches Brand
Many watchmakers and collectors say their interest in watches arose thanks to their father or grandfather. There is something touching about it.
Interest in watches is not innate; it is formed and developed over time.
Valuable family heirlooms and watches passed down from generation to generation become especially significant if they have their own story. When such watches are worn by the younger generation, they acquire a new, deeper meaning.
The history of the Baltic company is emotionally touching. The brand emerged after the death of the founder Etienne Malec's father.
While studying his father's diary, Malec discovered his deep love for classic watches, which inspired him to create his own brand. The company, founded in 2016, was named after the Baltic Sea coast in northern Poland, where the founder's father was from.
Malec draws inspiration from his father's passion for classic watches, which is reflected in Baltic's designs with their vintage aesthetics. This is how Baltic watches acquired their recognizable style.
Baltic MR01 Collection
The MR01 model belongs to the Classic series and, as expected, looks exactly classic. This means that the level of finish and quality of execution are at a level rarely seen in this price segment.
Collectors particularly value the thin cases and wearing comfort. In the 36mm watch category, the MR01 design perfectly combines modern and classic features.
Another feature of the MR01 is the attractive combination of textures and meticulous dial finishing.
When light hits the dial surface, the interplay of polishing and guilloche creates a play of light and shadow between polished and matte surfaces, giving the watch a sense of luxury despite its reasonable price.
First and foremost, the MR01 watches stand out for their elegance and classic elements such as Breguet hands and "wonderland" style Arabic numerals. All this makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear.
The design of the collection continued in the MR Roulette series, including four new models that we will examine in detail.
Launch of Baltic Watches MR Roulette
One of the key advantages of the new MR Roulette models is the dials with sector markings. This is a style that is easily recognizable if you know its features.
Firstly, the dial features two concentric circles. In the MR Roulette model, the small seconds counter partially overlaps with the hour markers.
Secondly, the minute scale is placed on the outer edge of the dial, while the hour markers are on its inner part.
Baltic experts chose a grainy background (except for the black version) and two brushed scales for the railway markings and hour indices. The small seconds subdial is off-center - a signature detail of the MR01 series.
The dauphine-style hands gracefully taper to sharp points and have facets that catch even the slightest ray of light.
The dial is rich in textures and shades. The play of light and shadow arising from the textural differences between the sectors creates an engaging and unusual way of reading time.
The new MR Roulette models are available in salmon, silver, blue, and black colors. The black version features a glossy background and looks particularly elegant on a gray Italian leather strap.
The 36mm case is perfectly suitable for both men and women. It has vertical brushing, and the top of the lugs is circularly brushed for contrast. The bezel is polished to a shine.
The thin case enhances wearing comfort, which is especially important for those with slender wrists.
The thickness of 9.9mm seems incredibly small for a mechanical movement, but a micro-rotor is installed here. The CAL5000a movement is an automatic with an integrated micro-rotor, allowing for a more compact case.
The movement is housed in a case with 30 meters of water resistance and features a transparent case back. The power reserve is an impressive 46 hours.
Why Are the New Baltic MR Roulette Affordable?
Baltic sources components in Hong Kong but assembles the watches in France. If this raises concerns, there's no need to worry, especially if you're looking for quality watches in an affordable price range.
In its price category, Baltic offers watches with a high-class feel.
Although the brand does not have the same recognition as the top Japanese manufacturers, it is not the only one using third-party components.
For example, Shinola's history is controversial: the brand sources parts in China and other countries but labels its dials as "Made in Detroit."
While Shinola watches don't look bad, the company's philosophy raises questions. It claims to support Detroit's economy by placing production in the city center.
Returning to the topic, Baltic is transparent about the origin of its components. Despite this, the level of dial finish on the MR Roulette is impressive.
Baltic watches don't look cheap because the manufacturer doesn't skimp on materials and attention to detail. For me, these are key quality criteria.
Conclusion
Baltic watches are designed for those who want a vintage look with modern mechanisms and materials. The new MR Roulette models are an excellent example of this approach.
Their visual and tactile appeal is hard to fully appreciate without personal acquaintance. Only by wearing and closely examining them can you truly appreciate their beauty.
I'm confident that even after several weeks of use, new details will be revealed in these watches. For example, the play of light on the domed sapphire crystal creates a sense of depth. This is a design that continues to surprise.
Interestingly, the first 100 pieces will be numbered. Such releases may have higher value on the secondary market over time.
Usually, I have reservations about brands in the price segment below Oris - it's my sort of threshold. But the quality of finish in this model impressed me.
If compared to a Grand Seiko priced around 8000 USD, the three-dimensional dials and refined cases are notable in both brands. However, upon closer inspection, you understand what is truly available in the market.
I approve the launch of Baltic Watches MR Roulette, what do you think? Leave your comments!