The horological world is vast, with timepieces telling tales not just of time but of history, innovation, and legacy. Yet, few watches have a story as captivating and momentous as the Fifty Fathoms by Blancpain. Celebrating its 70th anniversary, this iconic watch finds its roots deep within the oceans and embodies a bond between man and marine like none other.
As we approach September 9, both Swatch and Blancpain gear up to introduce five combined works in honor of the inaugural diving watch. Yet, how deep is your knowledge of its origins?
From a Vision to Maritime Supremacy
The Fifty Fathoms holds the esteemed title of being the world’s inaugural real diving watch. This creation was born out of necessity. The 1950s saw France’s naval officer Claude Riffaud, alongside the legendary Captain Robert “Bob” Maloubier, envisioning a new division – a French combat swimmer corps. But to realize this dream, they needed more than just courage and skill; they needed a timepiece that could withstand the pressures of the deep sea.
Existing watches were petite, often blurred underwater, and most disappointingly, lacked watertight integrity. Enter Jean-Jacques Fiechter, the helm at Blancpain for three eventful decades. Not just a watch enthusiast, Fiechter was a passionate diver. And it was a near-fatal diving mishap, where he ran out of air, that accentuated the pressing need for a diver-specific timepiece. With the launch of Fifty Fathoms in 1953, Fiechter didn’t just design a watch; he crafted a lifesaver based on raw, personal experiences.
Setting the Gold Standard: Trio of Innovations
The Fifty Fathoms wasn’t merely a watch that told time underwater. It revolutionized the definition of diving watches with its trifecta of patented innovations. A lockable rotating bezel, a twin-sealed crown system, and a double case back – each meticulously designed for durability, accuracy, and optimal readability. These features, coupled with its contrasting dark dial with luminescent indications and an impeccable waterproofing system, made it an instant favorite. Soon, the French Navy was sporting this marvel, particularly the versions with the double signature LIP, Blancpain’s French distributor, making them a collector’s dream today.
The Bard’s Influence and the Legacy Ahead
When searching for a moniker worthy of such an iconic timepiece, Fiechter found inspiration in the poetic depths of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” Fifty Fathoms denotes a safety threshold in diving – a significant 91 meters. This anniversary year is witnessing the release of five exquisite Swatch X Blancpain bioceramic tribute models, one representing each ocean. A move not just to celebrate history, but to welcome younger generations, much like Omega’s MoonSwatch, to the world of luxury horology.
A Universal Appeal
Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms has graced the wrists of many renowned personalities. From French combat swimmers, Commander Cousteau, to elite global divers, including the American Navy Seals, this watch has been a symbol of trust and elegance. And under the keen vision of CEO Marc Hayek, 2007 marked the resurgence of this legendary line, inviting newer generations to partake in its rich history.
Guardians of the Blue
Blancpain’s connection to the oceans transcends the realm of timekeeping. Being the pioneer in modern diving watches, every day is a tribute to the world’s oceans. Under the “Blancpain Ocean Commitment,” the brand has ardently supported ocean exploration and conservation since 2014. Their dedicated endeavors have added an impressive 4 million km2 to the marine protected areas globally.
Marc A. Hayek, the charismatic president, and CEO of Blancpain expressed, “Blancpain has nurtured a profound love and commitment for the oceans. Our journey with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) aims to increase marine protected zones, targeting 30% protection by 2030.” Collaborations with Biopixel Oceans Foundation and marine exploration specialist Biopixel further assert their pledge to the marine ecosystem.
As the curtains rise on the five new Swatch X Blancpain timepieces, one can’t help but wonder if the proceeds might aid in safeguarding our oceans. After all, Blancpain‘s Fifty Fathoms is not just a watch; it’s a legacy, a symbol of man’s eternal bond with the vast blue.
Click on this link to read this article in French version
