As the flagship model of the watchmaking manufacture, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms entered the horological world in 1953. It was created in response to a special order from French Navy combat divers unit. Over time, the Fifty Fathoms gained its fame as the collection providing the world’s most reliable and fashionable diver’s watches. All of the twenty different variations it has been interpreted are distinguished by their tested reliability and powerful identity.

Now, as a great homage to the legendary series, a model named “Tribute to Fifty Fathoms” has been introduced by Blancpain. Judging from the appearance, it seems combining the designs of two predecessors – the Fifty Fathoms circa 1950 and the Fifty Fathoms circa 1970. Further more, it laudably makes a sublimation rather than a simple mix, with the up-to-date technological innovations. Of course, it still preserves the main signature characteristics that have earned the Fifty Fathoms its formidable reputation: guaranteed water resistance to 30 ATM optimal readability thanks to oversized hands and hour-markers, a black dial and bezel providing a strikingly contrasted backdrop for the luminescent indications.

The Fifty Fathoms Circa 1950

The case for the new watch is crafted from stainless steel and measures 45mm in diameter. The rotating bezel has been provided with raised notching for easy handling, as well as the unidirectional rotation system that avoids any inadvertent extension of the dive time. Moreover, while crafted in scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, it features a slightly domed curve that further enhances its shock resistance. The case construction also incorporates crown guards providing the security of the crown.

The Fifty Fathoms Circa 1970

At the 6 o’clock on the dial is an eye-catching anti-radiation symbol as a nod to the historical model, it means that the type of luminescent coating used for the hour-markers contained no radioactive material. The Fifty Fathoms strap is in black sail canvas lined with rubber, making it sturdy, sporty and eminently waterproof.

Inside the watch is an in-house mechanical self-winding movement – Caliber 1315 built from 222 components. As a caliber specifically for the models with a distinctively sporting vocation, the 35-jewel movement gives an advantage of a 5-day (120-hour) power reserve. For this “Tribute” edition, only 500 pieces will be produced and released worldwide.