Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Review

Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface of the ocean? In the deepest darkest depths? Well we're taking a closer look today at a watch that paved the way for all diving watches, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms. Blancpain are passionate about the awe-inspiring exploration of the ocean and have worked with pro divers, scientists and underwater photographers to discover and preserve our ocean life. Come with us as we dive in deep and take a closer look at the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms.

Founded in Villaret, Switzerland in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain, Blancpain were family owned for over 200 years and have created a name for themselves as one of the leading Swiss watchmakers in the world. Introduced in 1953 when under the operation of Betty Fiechter and her nephew Jean-Jacques Fiechter, the Fifty Fathoms collection was developed as Jean-Jacques (an avid diver at the time) realised there was a dire need for a diving watch that could accurately time a dive after having a dangerously close call when he nearly ran out of oxygen. Yikes! The modern Fifty Fathoms watches inhabit many of the original distinctive characteristics from the 1953 model, so lets take a closer look at the specs of this incredible timepiece, shall we?

On the larger side of the scale, the Fifty Fathoms measures in at a whopping 45mm. The strap on this watch is a beautiful blue leather which really stands out, especially with the unique red gold case, a showstopper if I do say so myself. With the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms being a diving watch by nature, of course this timepiece was going to have an impressive water resistance of 300m and power reserve of 120 hours!  

The dial on this watch is one of my favourite features, and what makes this watch so special. It has a uni-directional bezel which audibly clicks when being moved but wait until you see this watch in the dark The markers on the watch are luminous so that divers can see the features underwater, but it looks just as cool on land! Covered with sapphire crystal, this watch is durable and protected from everyday scratches and scuffs, so you have peace of mind when wearing out and about.

At the core of this timepiece is the Blancpain calibre 1315 movement which boasts an incredible 227 parts and beats with a frequency of 28,800 vph, a testament to the 250+ years of unbeatable watchmaking skill and craftsmanship. There is also a 2 years manufacturers warranty offered with this specific model.

Overall, I think this watch is one of the most elite diving watches on the market today, a must have for divers and non-divers alike. What do you think of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms?

If you would like to take a closer look at this timepiece, please set up an appointment to view this watch in one of our 27 luxury boutiques. Alternately, this watch can be viewed on our website.