In the 1950s and 1960s, a new generation of diver’s watches emerged alongside the growing popularity of recreational scuba diving. The ‘skin diver’ category combined essential features with more compact portions suited to daily-wear. As manufacturers became aware of the potential market, equipment began to appear that was easy to use and reliable. The Bathyscaphe was introduced in 1956 to serve this emerging market. Designed for professionals and enthusiasts, Blancpain positioned the Bathyscaphe as the civilian counterpart of the Fifty Fathoms – its first true diver’s watch launched in 1953. For the model’s 70th anniversary, Blancpain issued a limited reproduction of a landmark model from 1968. This diver embodies the Bathyscaphe’s appeal: balanced proportions, functionality, and everyday elegance.
Limited to 300 pieces, the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Ref. 5903 1110 63A retains the 37.40 mm diameter and stainless-steel construction of its 1968 inspiration. The case was developed around a modern in-house movement to achieve these proportions. Defined by a slender case middle, the remarkable diameter-thickness ratio contributes to the watch’s streamlined profile and ergonomics. The bezel topping the case also mixes heritage and innovation. Just as it was on the ’68 model, it is made of steel and extends into a ring at the base of the glass box crystal. The insert is now ceramic with lacquered numerals, replacing the original black acrylic. Narrower than inserts fitted to current models, the ceramic construction offers improved strength and legibility. The design is finished with Blancpain’s mid-20th century logo, and hands and markers filled with vintage-colored Super-LumiNova.
Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Limited ($18,300.00) – blancpain.com
