Extreme Underwater Missions
On the occasion of the Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show, Blancpain launched the first ten watches of their new Fifty Fathoms model. This is a flyback chronograph that features a complete calendar and displays moon phases. The mechanical heart of this Blancpain chronograph includes a classic flyback movement, controlled by a column wheel and a vertical coupling-clutch.
The 45mm diameter stainless steel case is fitted with a unidirectional blue sapphire crystal bezel and a matching dial. The model is especially aimed at underscoring the brand’s link with the maritime world. The Fifty Fathoms series was born in 1953 from the encounter between Blancpain and two officers, Captain Robert ‘Bob’ Maloubier and Lieutenant Claude Riffaud, who were entrusted by the French Ministry of Defence with the creation of an elite Combat Divers unit. The model proved its performance by successfully facing up to the extreme conditions of underwater missions. The water resistance of the original model, guaranteed to a depth of 91.45m and equipped with a unique one-way rotating bezel system, gave its name to the mechanical masterpieces that Blancpain creates today.