Swatch is commemorating the 70th anniversary of Blancpain’s iconic Fifty Fathoms watch, which revolutionized the world of watchmaking by becoming the first true diver’s watch. Launched in 1953 by a diver to cater to the needs of underwater exploration, the Fifty Fathoms quickly became the preferred timekeeping tool for diving pioneers and elite marine corps across the globe.
In this exciting collaboration, Swatch pays homage to this iconic timepiece with its “Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms” collection, adding a playful twist to the renowned Swiss watchmaker’s legacy. This non-limited collection faithfully retains all the hallmarks of the Fifty Fathoms, including superior water resistance, exceptional legibility, mechanical movement, secure rotating bezel, and anti-magnetic protection. Drawing inspiration from the depths of the ocean, Blancpain and Swatch introduce a collection of five Swatch models, each named after one of the world’s five oceans: ARCTIC OCEAN, PACIFIC OCEAN, ATLANTIC OCEAN, INDIAN OCEAN, and ANTARCTIC OCEAN.
Staying true to its identity as a diver’s watch, the Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms offers water resistance down to 91 meters, paying homage to Blancpain’s history as “Fifty Fathoms” equals 91 meters (or 300 feet) – a historical maritime measure of depth in English-speaking regions.
Powering these exquisite timepieces is Swatch’s mechanical movement, the SISTEM51, the world’s first and only entirely automated mechanical movement. Thanks to its Nivachron™ hairspring, it boasts anti-magnetic properties and features just 51 parts, including a central screw, with an impressive 90-hour power reserve. The SISTEM51 made waves in 2013 by introducing a visible movement: the front tells the time, while the back tells a captivating story.
Continuing this narrative, the back of all five watches showcases digital prints of magnificent, colorful marine creatures found in the respective oceans. The collection features nudibranchs (scientific name: Nudibranchia) living in these oceans, creating a strong connection between the watches and their inspirations. Additionally, each watch includes a depiction of the ocean it represents on its back.
All the models in this collaboration between Swatch Group brands are crafted from Bioceramic, a unique material patented by the brand that consists of two-thirds ceramic and one-third bio sourced material derived from castor oil. In a commitment to ocean preservation, the NATO straps are made from recycled fishing nets retrieved from the sea.
The watches proudly display shared Blancpain X Swatch logos on the dial and crown, with “Swatch” inscribed on the case, mirroring “Blancpain” on the original Fifty Fathoms watches. The backs of the watches feature inspirational inscriptions like “PASSION FOR DIVING,” “LICENCE TO EXPLORE,” “OCEAN BREATH,” “PROTECT WHAT YOU LOVE,” and “IMMERSE YOURSELF.”
For avid Fifty Fathoms enthusiasts, the ARCTIC OCEAN model features a special symbol on the dial: a red trefoil on a yellow background with a white cross, along with the words “NO RADIATIONS” below the logo. In the 1960s, these logos signified that the watches did not contain radium and have since become sought-after collector’s items.
The ANTARCTIC OCEAN model showcases a genuine water contact indicator at 6 o’clock on the dial. Since 1954, Blancpain has incorporated this feature into some of its models for diving clubs and military units. This sensor ensures that the watch’s water resistance remains intact, with a change in sensor color indicating moisture. Some Fifty Fathoms models equipped with this two-color sensor bear the name “MIL-SPEC,” complying with US Navy specifications.
The new Blancpain X Swatch Collection boasts exclusive colors developed specifically for this collaboration, adding a playful and original touch to Blancpain’s professional diver’s watches. Starting from September 9, these watches will be available at selected Swatch stores worldwide, with a one-watch-per-person-per-day purchase limit. They will be presented in a special diving case and showcased in select Blancpain boutiques for several weeks. Don’t miss your chance to dive into this iconic collaboration between two distinguished Swiss watch brands.
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