The first Fifty Fathoms was born out of a partnership between Blancpain CEO Jean-Jacques Fiechter and Nageurs de combat veterans Captain Robert Malourbier and Lieutenant Claude Riffaud. The synthesis of that group’s expertise on precision watchmaking and the unique rigors faced by combat swimmers resulted in the creation of the world’s first dive watch. Based on the design envisioned by Malbourier for the French Navy’s newly established secret dive unit, the watches included in Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms collection are still the benchmark that modern diving watches are measured against today.
HODINKEE has its own reputation in the world of watches as an authority on the craft. Well-versed in the contributions Blancpain has made to the industry, HODINKEE is a perfect partner for this special edition release.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe HODINKEE Limited Edition stays true to the collection’s original design while putting a modern spin on it. The limited edition model bases its design on the iconic Bathyscaphe released in 2013 to celebrate the Fifty Fathoms collection’s 60th anniversary but comes at a much more manageable 38mm size and does away with the date window. The watch is powered by Blancpain’s in-house automatic caliber 1153 movement and is water-resistant to 300 meters.
Each piece is engraved in recognition of its place in the limited production run of only 100 pieces. Its brushed steel case encloses a bold, no-date black dial paired with a faded grey ceramic insert. The addition of Liquidmetal hour-markers accentuates its vintage design with a touch of modern sophistication. Each watch includes one sail canvas strap, one black NATO strap, and another grey NATO strap to match its bold design perfectly with any outfit.