On June 8, World Ocean Day, Blancpain unveiled the new Fifty Fathoms Tech, a professional diving watch that continues the technical approach introduced with the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 2 Tech Gombessa in 2023.
The new reference 5019A-12B30-94A incorporates Blancpain’s patented three-hour bezel, a solution developed for extended dives using closed-circuit rebreathers and other forms of long-duration technical diving.
The Fifty Fathoms was introduced in 1953 as the first modern diver’s watch, establishing many of the characteristics that would become standard across the category, including the secured rotating bezel. Read the full story of the Fifty Fathoms.
Conceived as a genuine safety device rather than a decorative feature, the bezel allows divers to measure elapsed time underwater and accurately monitor their ascent. For decades, this system relied on the familiar 60-minute scale.
In 2023, Blancpain rethought the concept for the requirements of modern technical diving.
Developed in collaboration with explorer and underwater photographer Laurent Ballesta, the Fifty Fathoms Tech Gombessa introduced a patented three-hour bezel designed specifically for extended dives using closed-circuit rebreathers.
Such dives can last well beyond the limits of a conventional 60-minute bezel, often extending to two or three hours. To address this requirement, Blancpain adapted a mechanism traditionally used for GMT indications, creating a dedicated hand that completes one full rotation every three hours.
Combined with a matching three-hour bezel scale, the system enables divers to monitor the entire duration of long technical dives with a single glance.
This distinctive feature is now carried over to the new Fifty Fathoms Tech. The bezel incorporates a black ceramic insert and works in conjunction with a dedicated dive-time hand finished in white luminescent material with green emission, matching the corresponding markings on the bezel.
To maximise readability underwater, the dial is executed in Blancpain’s "absolute black" finish, capable of absorbing approximately 97 percent of incoming light.
A domed sapphire crystal eliminates visual distortion when viewed from different angles, while large block-shaped hour markers and the hour and minute hands use orange accents with blue luminescent emission, clearly distinguishing conventional time indications from diving information.
The titanium case measures 47 mm in diameter and 14.8 mm in thickness and is crafted from Grade 23 titanium, also known as Grade 5 ELI (Extra Low Interstitials), a material valued for its combination of strength, lightness and hypoallergenic properties.
Unlike other Fifty Fathoms models, the lower section of the case middle adopts a bevelled profile rather than the traditional rounded "bassine" construction, contributing to a more contemporary appearance.
Water resistance is rated to 30 bar, equivalent to approximately 300 metres / 1,000 feet. A helium escape valve integrated into the case enables the safe release of helium accumulated during saturation diving without compromising water resistance.
Visible through the sapphire caseback is the automatic Calibre 13P5A. Comprising 226 components and 35 jewels, the movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and delivers a substantial power reserve of 120 hours.
Equipped with a silicon balance spring and Blancpain’s secured movement system, it also incorporates a date display. The anthracite-coloured oscillating weight features a distinctive openworked design that reveals a large portion of the movement beneath.
The watch is fitted with a black rubber strap secured directly to the central lugs by screws and reinforced internally with titanium to ensure long-term stability. An extension system allows it to be worn over a technical diving suit.
Blancpain also introduces a new interchangeable strap system that enables tool-free changes between black, white and orange rubber straps.
The new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech, reference 5019A 12B30 94A, is priced at €24,550. blancpain.com
COMMENTS