STYLE BUZZ

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms

All things considered, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms watches have never looked better. Watch enthusiasts know and love it for being the world’s first true dive watch. Today, we appreciate how Blancpain has evolved it beyond a tool watch or diving instrument. New material upgrades and special design features land the Fifty Fathoms a firm spot in the pantheon of horological greats.

For 2019, the manufacture goes back in time to a relatively unknown chapter of its history. During WW2 it supplied mechanical diving instruments and timekeepers to the French combat swimmers. After the war, it made watches as well for the German bundesmarine.

The Fifty Fathoms Nageurs de Combat is a limited edition throwback to the 1950s. The number 7 imprinted on the dial is a reference to the maximum depth which the frogmen can dwell at while on full oxygen. Any lower and the gas becomes toxic to the human body.

On the other hand, the Fifty Fathoms Barakuda promises to be a hit with vintage watch lovers. It’s ultra-collectible with those oversized markers painted in a faded beige colour and topped with red paint. This piece goes back to the 1960s and is delivered on a tropical-style rubber strap.

More contemporary designs have also been created. Blancpain releases two new Fifty Fathoms Automatique models, one in titanium and another in red gold with a blue ceramic dial. Both materials are known for their strength and resilience, and the watches offer a plethora of intricate details waiting to be discovered. So go ahead and dive right in.