Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Titanium
Back in 2013 we saw Blancpain reintroduce the “Bathyscaphe” model into their “Fifty Fathoms” collection and from there on it has been released with various different case sizes, dial options and materials. But although Blancpain has been known for using titanium in their special series of “Fifty Fathoms” since the early 1960’s, this is the first time it has been used for a Bathyscaphe model.The 43mm case is made of grade 23 titanium with a satin-brushed finish. This alloy contains aluminium and vanadium, which is rarely used in the watch industry because it requires some demanding machining work. But, despite that titanium is ideal for diver watches for providing high resistance to pressure, corrosion, and its lightweight composition.On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition case back, which allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It is decorated by purple jewels, some gold gears, and a snailed oscillating weight engraved with the Blancpain logo.Mounted to the case is a unidirectional titanium bezel with a ceramic insert, which features Liquidmetal® markers. All topped by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Water-resistance on this timepiece can reach up to 300m (984 feet).Time is exhibited on a matte grey dial with a hand-crafted vertical satin finish, while circling around are rounded index markers made of Liquidmetal®, an alloy suited to avoid distortions. The rectangular baton-style central hands are based on the original vintage look of this model, which are sometimes also referred to as “syringe-hands”. These central hands and hour index markers have all been fitted with a luminescent coating for an enhanced legibility. The Blancpain logo and model name written in a white font appear on the upper-half of the dial. Unlike the “Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Mokarran” edition, this release has once again included a date aperture between the 4 and 5 o’clock positions, just as the previous “Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Sedna Gold” did.
Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Titanium
The “Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Titanium'' (Refereneces below) is powered by the self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 1315, with 35 jewels and 227 components. Also features a Glucydur balance with gold regulation screws. Power reserve on this timepiece can last up to 125 hours (5 days). Mounted to the watch is the option of a titanium 3-link bracelet with hidden screws for adjusting the length, secured by a triple folding clasp.While for a slightly more accessible price it can be had with a grey sailcloth strap, or a grey NATO strap; both secured to the wrist by a titanium pin buckle. For more up to date information visit the official Blancpain website here.