Introducing the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune in Black Ceramic
A Legacy of Innovation
Blancpain, a pioneering brand in the world of dive watches since the 1950s, has consistently evolved its timepieces to include a range of complications. The latest addition to this esteemed lineup is the 2024 release of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune in black ceramic, available in three striking colorways.
Design and Features
The new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune boasts a 43.6mm case crafted from black ceramic, measuring 14.1mm thick. It features a sapphire crystal and a unidirectional ceramic bezel with a Liquidmetal 60-minute scale. The watch is equipped with a screw-down crown at 3 o’clock and flush pushers along the case side, offering secure access to the movement. The screw-down display caseback reveals the intricate manufacture triple-calendar moonphase movement.
Colorways and Straps
The watch is available in three colorways: black, blue, and green. Each dial has a sunray finish with a radial gradient effect. The black and blue models come with matching black ceramic bezel inserts, while the green version features a green ceramic insert. The black ceramic bracelets complement all models, but sailcloth and NATO strap options are also available. Notably, the blue version pairs with blue fabric straps to match its dial.
Unified Design Elements
Despite the color differences, the three models share several features. Each has luminous hour markers, day and month calendar windows on the upper dial, a moonphase display below the hands, and a date track around the dial’s perimeter. Super-LumiNova enhances low-light legibility, and the seconds and pointer date hands are tipped in bright red for contrast.
Movement and Performance
Powering this sophisticated timepiece is the Caliber 6654.P.4 automatic movement, also found in other Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune models. Operating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with a 72-hour power reserve, it displays the time, date, day, month, and moon phase. The silicon balance spring ensures superior resistance to magnetism, and its error-proof design allows for safe adjustments.
Bracelet and Strap Options
This model marks the first time a black ceramic bracelet is featured in the collection, with a three-link design secured by a butterfly-style folding clasp. For those preferring straps, the NATO or sailcloth options offer a significant price reduction.
Pricing and Value
The black ceramic Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune is priced at $18,400 USD on a fabric strap and $26,000 USD with the ceramic bracelet. While these prices are steep, they are competitive compared to other high-end dive watches and offer a unique blend of innovation and luxury.
In conclusion, the new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune in black ceramic stands out as a luxurious, technically advanced dive watch that continues Blancpain’s legacy of excellence in watchmaking.