Blancpain x Swatch: Oceanic Tribute with the Scuba Fifty Fathoms
Fernando AldeaA journey through the history of watchmaking and a love of the oceans: Blancpain and Swatch present a collaboration celebrating the iconic Fifty Fathoms and the majesty of our seas.
The world of watchmaking is vast and constantly evolving, and when two titans like Blancpain and Swatch decide to collaborate, the result can only be extraordinary. This alliance takes us on a journey through time, taking us back to the creation of the legendary Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, a watch that, 70 years ago, revolutionized the world of diving and watchmaking. But this collaboration goes beyond nostalgia. It is a powerful statement about the importance of our oceans, those vast and mysterious domains that cover more than 70% of our planet. Through this series of watches, Blancpain and Swatch invite us to reflect on the beauty, majesty, and, sadly, fragility of our seas, reminding us of the responsibility we all share in their conservation.
https://youtu.be/WbAYO5iqsSw?si=Lb2SUvQC-xgyTs4QManufacturer's presentation
In its new collaboration, Swatch pays tribute to Blancpain's iconic Fifty Fathoms, a watch born seventy years ago that transformed watchmaking by being the first watch designed specifically for diving. Conceived by a passionate diver, this timepiece quickly became the preferred timekeeping tool for diving pioneers and elite naval forces worldwide.
The new series, called Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms , features five models that embody Swatch’s distinctive, playful touch. Inspired by the depths of the ocean, these watches not only faithfully reproduce the characteristics of the original Fifty Fathoms, such as their water resistance and exceptional legibility, but also pay tribute to each of the planet’s five oceans. Each watch is named after a specific ocean: ARCTIC OCEAN, PACIFIC OCEAN, ATLANTIC OCEAN, INDIAN OCEAN, and ANTARCTIC OCEAN.
In addition to paying homage to the oceans, this collaboration also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. Swatch has incorporated Bioceramic , a material composed of 2/3 ceramic and 1/3 bio-sourced polymer. This material not only gives the watch exceptional strength and durability, but also reflects a conscious approach to the environment. The choice of this innovative material is a step forward in watchmaking, proving that it is possible to combine tradition with technology and sustainability. It is evident that both Blancpain and Swatch are committed not only to creating exceptional watches, but also to protecting our planet and its oceans, making this collaboration truly special.
First impressions
At LOFT, looking at this collaboration, we feel a mix of nostalgia and excitement. The faithfulness with which the Fifty Fathoms design has been recreated is impressive. But what truly captivates us is how Swatch has infused its essence into these watches, giving them a modern and fresh touch. The choice of colors, inspired by the oceans and the creatures that inhabit them, is extremely playful.
The incorporation of Bioceramic into the watch's construction is a testament to innovation and sustainability, two deeply held values. Every time we look at these watches, we find ourselves immersed in an experience that goes beyond the simple act of telling the time; it's a journey into the depths of the ocean, a reminder of its beauty and the need to protect it.
Furthermore, the tactile feel of Bioceramic is unique, offering a combination of robustness and softness that is difficult to find in other materials. Legibility, a crucial aspect of any dive watch, is exceptional thanks to the luminescent markers and hands, which glow brightly in low-light conditions.
Finally, this collaboration's commitment to ocean conservation is something that will resonate deeply with collectors. It's not just a watch; it's a statement, a reminder that every action counts and that we can all play a role in protecting our planet.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Blancpain and Swatch is more than just a watch series; it's a testament to heritage and innovation in watchmaking. It's a reminder of how the past and present can merge to create something truly unique. But beyond technical mastery and design, this collaboration speaks to a deeper commitment: the responsibility we share toward our oceans. In a time when sustainability and conservation are more important than ever, it's refreshing and hopeful to see two watchmaking giants come together to send such a powerful message. We believe horology has the power to inspire, educate, and make a difference. And with the Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms, Blancpain and Swatch have proven that this power can be used not only to sell, but also to leave a legacy.
Specs
| BLANCPAIN X SWATCH BIOCERAMIC SCUBA FIFTY FATHOMS |
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REFERENCE : ANTARCTIC OCEAN/SO35S100 | ARCTIC OCEAN/SO35N100 | ATLANTIC OCEAN/SO35A100 | INDIAN OCEAN/SO35I100 | PACIFIC OCEAN/SO35P100 |
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MOVEMENT : Mechanical SISTEM51 (automatic) with 90-hour power reserve. Illustration of the Antarctic Ocean and digital print of the nudibranch Tritoniella Belli / Illustration of the Arctic Ocean and digital print of the nudibranch Dendronotus Frondosus / Illustration of the Atlantic Ocean and digital print of the nudibranch Glaucus Atlanticus / Illustration of the Indian Ocean and digital print of the nudibranch Nembrotha Kubaryana / Illustration of the Pacific Ocean and digital print of the nudibranch Chromodoris Kuiteri |
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CASE : Ice white / beige / blue / green / orange yellow Bioceramic case and crown | Diameter 42.3 mm, Thickness 14.4 mm, Lug to lug 48.0 mm | Warm yellow Bioceramic unidirectional rotating bezel with dark grey / orange / black anti-scratch strip | Bio-sourced crystal treated with an anti-scratch coating | Water resistance to 50 fathoms (91 m / 300 ft / 9 bar) |
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DIAL/HANDS : Cool gray with gradient rim and two-tone water contact indicator at 6 o’clock / Warm beige with gradient rim, “NO RADIATION” logo at 6 o’clock / Light blue with ocean blue rim, date indicator between 4 and 5 o’clock / Intense green with gradient black rim, date indicator between 4 and 5 o’clock / White with gradient black rim, date indicator between 4 and 5 o’clock | Hands, hour markers, 60-minute diving scale with Grade A Super-LumiNova® |
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BRACELET : NATO strap, made from recycled fishing nets extracted from the sea. Bioceramic pin buckle and loops. |
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FUNCTIONS : Hours, minutes, seconds, date (SO35A100, SO35I100, SO35P100) |
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PRICE : $400 USD |
