There are icons that need no introduction, although we invite you to read our article on the history of the mythical Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. Unveiled in 1953 and recognized as the first modern female diver, she celebrates her 70th anniversary This year. A great opportunity for Blancpain to unveil a limited edition faithful to the original model.
Following on from the 2003 anniversary editions
Just as 20 years ago, when Blancpain celebrated the 50th anniversary of its icon, this anniversary edition will be divided into three seriesthis time produced at 70 pieces each. Here, the three models will be respectively dedicated to a region of the world, in which they will be exclusively marketed: EMEA, Asia Pacific and America. Note that the serial number will be annotated at 6 o’clock on the dial, under the words “70th Anniversary”.
A nod to the first Fifty Fathoms
As so often when it comes to commemorations, the editions offered pay direct homage to the original models. Blancpain has therefore reduced the size of its diver’s watch here, from 45mm to 42mm of diameter. Also for more fidelity, its sunburst black dial is strewn with large indexes completed by imposing Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock, all covered with luminescent material. There is also a discreet date window, placed between the indexes at 4 and 5 o’clock. On the frame side, this anniversary edition is delivered on a bracelet NATO in black fabricperfectly showcasing this vintage-inspired series and made entirely from recycled fishing nets.
A manufacture movement: caliber 1315
This trio of anniversary editions will be powered by the highly respected caliber 1315. A movement with automatic winding developed and produced in the brand’s prestigious workshops, in the heart of the Vallée de Joux. Launched in 2007, it stands out for its triple barrelallowing it to offer an impressive 120 hour power reservethen its silicon hairspring giving it non-magnetic properties. Its open bottom, surprising for a diver displaying water resistance 30 barwill offer you an unobstructed view of its mass in engraved platinum for the occasion. The price has not yet been communicated by the brand but the models will be available very soon, so stay tuned!
Soon available on the Blancpain website.
CHARACTERISTICS – BLANCPAIN FIFTY FATHOMS 70TH ANNIVERSARY
Case: stainless steel – satin finish with engraving on the middle – 42.3mm wide x 14.3mm thick – domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment – unidirectional bezel with domed sapphire crystal insert – transparent back – water resistance 30 ATM (300 meters )
Dial: black background with sunray finish – printed markings – cream-coloured Arabic numerals & white minute scale – sword-shaped hands – luminescence on hands and hour markers with red-tipped second hand – date window with black background at 4-5 o’clock
Movement : automatic – caliber 1315 – 120-hour power reserve – 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) – 35 jewels – platinum rotor with special engraving – stop-seconds function – 30.6mm wide x 5.65mm high – hours , minutes, seconds and date
Bracelet : Fabric NATO made from recycled fishing nets – 21.5mm straight fit – satin finish pin buckle clasp
Information: references 5010A-1130-NABA, 5010B-1130-NABA & 5010C-1130-NABA – limited editions of 70 pieces per model – only available for pre-order on the official Blancpain website – 2-year warranty – price not confirmed