The new size is more wearable than the usual 45mm version (All photos: Blancpain)
It was a giant leap for Blancpain last year when the watchmaker celebrated two milestones: the 70th anniversary of the original Fifty Fathoms and the 20th anniversary of the line Marc A Hayek, the brand’s president and chief executive for more than 20 years, revamped. Just when you think this icon — the first true diver’s watch — cannot metamorphosise any more, it swims into new territory with an iteration that is more compact but no less powerful: the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 42mm Automatique collection encased in Grade 23 titanium or 18-carat red gold.
Watch enthusiasts probably saw it coming. The 42mm option in stainless steel was presented on the 70th anniversary Act 1 previously (and the Scuba Fifty Fathoms in Bioceramic), so it was only a matter of time before a case of this size resurfaced. Those wishing to own the high-performance Calibre 1315, a robust and accurate self- winding movement that ensures a reliable five-day power reserve thanks to its three series-coupled barrels, will be able to do so with the long-awaited Automatique in a smaller diameter.
5010-36b40-o64a_pr_rvb_1.jpg
The sapphire bezel, Blancpain's steadfast fixture, still remains to ensure unparalleled durability even in the most challenging conditions. The addition of a silicon hairspring enhances its resistance to magnetic fields, while the stop seconds function allows for precise time adjustments. Furthermore, the luminescent oversized indices and contrasting dark dial ensure effortless readability, whether in broad daylight or murky depths.
Available in a sporty blue or sleek black dial, the watch comes with matching or combination choices of straps, from sail- canvas to NATO and a Tropic textured rubber version inspired by the 1953 model. A titanium bracelet (no gold option, unfortunately) rounds off the range dedicated to the case in the same material. This timepiece is the perfect companion for the active urbanite or young traveller who embraces life’s many exciting adventures.
This article first appeared on Apr 1, 2024 in The Edge Malaysia.
