Why is the Fifty Fathoms Celebrated as the Inaugural Diver’s Watch?

 

Launched in 1953, Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is the first true diver’s watch. Created by a diver and chosen by pioneers, it played a vital role in the development of scuba diving. It is the catalyst of Blancpain’s commitment to ocean conservation.

The Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1 stands as a beacon of horological excellence, a tribute to diving’s heritage, and a commitment to a sustainable future.

For the avid watch aficionado, the art of horology extends far beyond the realm of mere timekeeping. It’s a world of intricate mechanisms, timeless aesthetics, and unparalleled craftsmanship that fuels the passion of those who appreciate the finer nuances of watchmaking. And when this passion intertwines with a love for diving, a realm of exploration and adventure, the result is a devotion that goes deeper than the ocean’s depths. Enter Blancpain’s exceptional creation: the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1, a unique masterpiece unveiled exclusively for Only Watch 2023.

Blancpain’s legacy as a pioneer in the world of dive watches traces back to the momentous year of 1953, when the first true diver’s watch, the Fifty Fathoms, emerged from the depths. Born from the vision of a diver and embraced by trailblazers, this iconic timepiece played an instrumental role in shaping the evolution of scuba diving. A testament to Blancpain’s unwavering commitment to ocean conservation, the Fifty Fathoms series has become a symbol of both innovation and environmental responsibility.

As Blancpain celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the legendary Fifty Fathoms, it is only fitting that a horological masterpiece be created to honor this remarkable journey. The Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1, a timepiece that made its debut earlier this year, is the embodiment of this tribute. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for heritage, this unique piece captures the essence of the original Fifty Fathoms, paying homage to its storied past while embracing modern horological advancements.

The aesthetic harmony of the timepiece is immediately evident, with a captivating blue-themed color motif that invokes the very essence of the ocean.

The unidirectional blue bezel, meticulously constructed from scratch-resistant sapphire, exudes a mesmerizing visual depth, evoking the allure of underwater exploration. A true fusion of tradition and innovation, the watch draws inspiration from multiple landmark editions, including the 1953 original and the 2003 and 2007 Fifty Fathoms iterations.

The dial of the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1 is a work of art in itself. Graduated in shades of blue, it pays homage to the legacy of the Fifty Fathoms while embracing modern luminous technology. Luminous indexes and Arabic numerals at key positions, combined with stick markers adorned with layers of Super-LumiNova, ensure optimal legibility in any diving scenario. This timepiece is more than just a watch; it’s a testament to precision, functionality, and the enduring allure of the sea.

At the heart of this horological marvel beats the in-house Calibre 1315 movement, an embodiment of Blancpain’s commitment to technical excellence. With three mainspring barrels delivering a remarkable 5-day power reserve, and a silicon hairspring enhancing precision and robustness, the movement is a symphony of engineering prowess. A transparent caseback provides a window into this mechanical wonder, revealing the haut de gamme finishing, extra-large jewels, and an 18K gold winding rotor inscribed with the legend of Only Watch.

Setting a new benchmark in size, the stainless steel case of the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1 measures 42.3mm, redefining comfort and wearability while retaining its iconic design language. Completing the ensemble is a NATO-style strap, woven from nylon sourced from reclaimed fishing nets, a testament to Blancpain’s dedication to ocean conservation and environmental stewardship.