The new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic 38mm Collection

One of many earliest dive watches, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms has lengthy been one of the vital emblematic fashions out there available on the market. In 2007, the classic Fifty Fathoms Automatique (ref. 5015) arrived with its massive (even outsized) 45mm case and calibre 1315 – two basic parts of the everlasting assortment. And this dimension has been the best way to go for some years. However in 2024, because the model was celebrating the model’s 70th anniversary, one thing nice arrived within the assortment: the Fifty Fathoms 42mm Collection in titanium, gold and later in steel. And when you thought that was the top, Blancpain now provides a 3rd dimension to the gathering, giving the FF a flexible silhouette to suit most wrists, ladies or males. Let’s dive into the specifics of the model new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automated 38mm. 

For the reason that re-launch of the mannequin in 2007, the story of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms has been fairly clear. Not together with issues, comparable to the chronograph/calendar, the tourbillon or the Big Date, the basic model, that means the time-and-date automatic dive watch, the Fifty Fathoms has largely been out there in a big case of 45mm, with its signature domed sapphire bezel insert. This mannequin, referred to as the reference 5015, was the spine of the gathering, which additionally later included extra compact restricted version watches comparable to the Tribute to Fifty Fathoms No Rad or the Barakuda Re-Edition, each utilizing a 40mm case. Final yr, the model pleasantly shocked us with the release of the 42mm collection, already an attention-grabbing transfer for collectors, in step with present developments for extra compact watches. Not content material with 2 sizes within the assortment, Blancpain now provides a 3rd and smaller one, making the Fifty Fathoms Automatique now out there in 45mm (ref. 5015), 42mm (ref. 5010) and 38mm (ref. 5007).

What is that this launch all about? Properly, just about a size-only story. Whereas drastically lowered in comparison with the unique 45mm variations, the brand new Fifty Fathoms Automatique 38mm is unmistakably a part of the household, and retains all the things that has made the gathering recognisable. Straight from launch, the FF 38mm is on the market in 3 totally different supplies, two totally different colors and with a complete vary of straps and bracelets. This implies that you could decide for stainless-steel with a elegant end, grade 23 titanium with a brushed end or 18k purple gold with a brushed end. Dimensions: 38mm in diameter, 12mm in thickness (fairly first rate, to be sincere) and about 45mm in size. These smaller measurements at the moment are paired with a 19mm lug width, to maintain the stability proper.

As for the specs and the diving credentials, whereas the case has been lowered, the basic options have been maintained. Regardless of being smaller, the Fifty Fathoms 38mm stays a real dive watch with a uni-directional bezel – after all geared up with the signature domed sapphire insert, in black or blue – a screw down crown with lateral guards, a screwed again and a strong water-resistance of 300 metres. On the wrist, it wears like a attraction and is appropriate for each women and men. Observe, nonetheless, that the bracelet and straps are comparatively brief and made with smaller wrists in thoughts. One thing to attempt in actual life in case you’re curious about buying one.

As stated, a number of editions can be found. The polished metal mannequin is paired with a sunray-brushed black dial and bezel, with white gold arms and utilized markers. The brushed titanium mannequin has a darkish blue dial and bezel, additionally with white gold parts on the dial. Final, the 18k purple gold version is paired with the identical sunray-brushed blue dial and blue sapphire bezel, however this time the arms and markers are performed in purple gold too, for a heat and opulent really feel. As for the appears, it’s as basic as it may be, with the identical structure because the 42mm and 45mm editions – that means triangular hour markers, Arabic numerals are cardinal factors, glaive-shaped arms (all largely full of SLN) and, to my remorse, the date nonetheless positioned at 4:30, however with a tone-on-tone disc. Measurement apart, the 38mm editions are solely equivalent to the 42mm fashions.

Contained in the case is the Blancpain calibre 1150 (a Frédéric Piguet base). This computerized motion is provided with 2 barrels providing a cushty 100-hour energy reserve, and runs at a frequency of 3Hz. It additionally advantages from a silicon stability spring for superior anti-magnetic efficiency. Seen via the sapphire again, it’s properly embellished with sunray-brushed bridges, bevelled edges and a strong gold rotor handled in darkish gray NAC coating, for a technical look.

As for securing the watch to the wrist, Blancpain leaves you with a ton of choices. The metal and titanium fashions can be found on a 3-link bracelet with hid folding clasp. The titanium model is brushed, whereas the metal mannequin has alternating brushed and polished hyperlinks. On all fashions, together with the purple gold editions, you’ll even have the selection of three colour-matched straps: tropic-like rubber, textile NATO and sailcloth canvas straps (in black or blue). The rubber and canvas straps will be ordered with both a pin or a deployant buckle.

A part of the everlasting assortment, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatique 38mm joins the 42mm and 45mm fashions to now full the vary with extra versatility than ever. The costs are from CHF 15,000 to CHF 17,700 for the grade 23 titanium version, from CHF 14,000 to CHF 16,300 in metal and from CHF 25,600 and CHF 28,500 for the gold fashions – relying on the selection of strap, bracelet and buckle.

For extra particulars, please go to www.blancpain.com.