Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms Gets The Stainless Steel Treatment

The Fifty Fathoms Automatique 42mm makes a triumphant return this time in polished stainless steel joining Blancpain’s permanent collection. This new interpretation of the iconic diving watch blends contemporary elegance with historical reverence, following in the footsteps of the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1 released in 2023, and last year’s titanium and red gold editions.

With a 42 mm case, the watch is thoughtfully sized for a wide range of wrists, while the polished stainless steel case adds a breathtaking brilliance that catches the light from every angle. The deep black sunburst dial, paired with a unidirectional black bezel topped with a domed sapphire insert, creates a striking contrast. The dial’s oversized luminescent hour markers enhance readability in all lighting conditions above and below the surface. It’s a clean, powerful aesthetic that underscores the model’s serious diving heritage.

This timepiece is powered by the high-performance automatic Blancpain caliber 1315, a movement revered for its exceptional endurance and precision. Introduced in 2007, the caliber features three series-coupled barrels that deliver an impressive five-day power reserve. Its silicon balance spring not only boosts long-term accuracy but also offers vital protection against magnetic fields—a crucial trait for a professional-grade diver’s watch. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back, where traditional fine watchmaking finishes meet modern functionality. The 18-carat red gold oscillating weight, adorned with NAC treatment, echoes the rotor design of the original 1953 model.

And it is to that very model the legendary Fifty Fathoms of 1953—that this modern iteration pays tribute. The original was a milestone in horology, regarded as the first modern diving watch ever created. Purpose-built for elite divers and military units, it featured a secure crown system, an automatic movement for reliability under water, and a highly legible dial with luminescent hour markers. Its lockable rotating bezel, anti-magnetic shielding, and robust water resistance (rated to 50 fathoms, or approximately 91 meters) set new standards in underwater timekeeping.

Now, more than 70 years later, the Fifty Fathoms continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. The new 42 mm polished steel version is offered on a choice of a refined stainless steel bracelet or a comfortable Tropic-style rubber strap, available with either a pin buckle or deployant clasp. It’s not a limited edition—rather, it marks a permanent addition to the Blancpain collection, reaffirming the brand’s dedication to enduring craftsmanship and innovation.