Moment in time
Blancpain, the world’s oldest watchmaking brand, has been passionately committed to innovation since 1735. Its pioneering vision is most evident in Fifty Fathoms, the world’s first diving watch, designed in 1953. To celebrate its 65th anniversary, we take a look at the evolution of the legendary timepiece and its enduring global influence, as well as the company’s dedication to marine conservation.
THE BATHYSCAPHE IS RELEASED
A civilian version of the Fifty Fathoms diving watch, Bathyscaphe is released with adaptable size for daily wear.
FIFTY FATHOMS IS BORN
Blancpain CEO and pioneering diver Jean-Jacques Fiechter designs the world’s first modern diving watch. Innovative safety features include a double sealed crown system for water resistance and a rotating bezel with locking system for measuring dive time. Bold design elements include a large face with white-onblack markings. The timepiece is adopted by the French navy and sets the global standard for military diving watches, which remains to this day. The name Fifty Fathoms is inspired by Ariel’s song, “Full Fathom Five”, from Shakespeare’s The Tempest.
THE US NAVY BUYS IN
Blancpain is the only company that manufactures a diving watch complying with specific requirements of the United States Navy. Named MIL-SPEC1, the US government orders just 611 pieces.
THE US NAVY REQUESTS A BOMB-SAFE WATCH
The amagnetic MIL-SPEC 2 is designed for the United States Navy. It contains minimal magnetic material to avoid setting off magnetically released triggers on bombs and torpedoes. The US government orders 780 pieces, followed by a further 300 in 1966.
BLANCPAIN CEO STANDS DOWN
Jean-Jacques Fiechter ends his tenure as CEO of Blancpain after 30 years in charge.
FIFTY FATHOMS TURNS 50
The 50th anniversary of the Fifty Fathoms diving watch is marked by the launch of a limited edition and the announcement of Blancpain’s first ocean preservation initiative.