DIVING INTO THE PAST
Launched in 1953, the dive watch was adopted by diving enthusiasts worldwide. This limited edition commemorates the version distributed in Germany in the 1960s.
Adopted by professional divers as soon as it was introduced, the technical advantages of the Fifty Fathoms were also adopted by oceanographic exploration specialists as well as by the military forces of various countries. For example, the Blancpain dive watch outfitted the wrists of the German navy in the 1960s. It is still supplied by Barakuda, a renowned diving equipment specialist. It is also the company that made a civilian model available in the German market, recognizable through a few esthetic details. On the dial are two-tone rectangular hour-markers and fluorescent hands painted in white. The date is displayed at 3 o’clock. The 2019 Fifty Fathoms Barakuda edition features these details as well. Large red and white hour-markers covered with cream-colored Super-LumiNova® “old radium” are pointed by white-lacquered pencil-shaped hands. The date is displayed in a prominent window. Everything is surrounded by a unidirectional bezel.
Within the 40mm diameter satin-finish steel case, water-resistant to 300m, the 1151 caliber orchestrates the time information with precision. Equipped with two barrels, this self-winding movement guarantees a comfortable power reserve of 100 hours, or more than four days. When the case is turned over, the oscillating weight and its unique open design are revealed via the sapphire crystal back.
Like the original timepiece, the 500 pieces in the Fifty Fathoms Barakuda series are presented on a tropic-style rubber strap.
Price: 13,180 EUR
By Dan Diaconu