During Baselworld last year, Blancpain presented the modernised version, or ‘reinterpreted’ according to Blancpain, of their well known Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe. Originally created in the late 1950s as a dive watch that also could be used for daily wear. This year Blancpain added a new member to the family in the shape of a chronograph. The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback.

Although the new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback has an updated appearance it still holds the aesthetic DNA from the original Fifty Fathoms model. The rectangular shaped hands still resemble the 1950s version. Same goes for the hour markers on the domed dial. They are designed as dots and lines only. The shape of the lugs got an extra beveled edge which looks great.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscape Chronograph Flyback Blancpain-Fifty-Fathoms-Bathyscape-003This dive watch is powered by a new automatic manufacture column-wheel chronograph (caliber F385) movement with flyback function. Using the flyback function, you can reset and instantly restart the running chronograph with just one push. Normally, chronographs need to be stopped first before you can reset and restart the chronograph function again. It is safe to do up to 300 meters depht using the water-resistant chronograph pushers. Unlike most water proof chronographs that have screw down pushers, the ones on the Bathyscaphe chronograph are always ready for use.

On the back of the Bathyscaphe Chronograph you will find a sapphire case-back revealing the Blancpain caliber F385 movement. The oscillating weight is made of 18-carat gold and finished with a platinum alloy. Silicon was used for the balance-spring giving the watch good anti-magnetic qualities. The column-wheel can be seen on the right, partially covered by the oscillating weight.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscape Chronograph Flyback There are basically two versions of the 43 mm Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback. You either go for brushed steel with a meteorite gray dial or brushed ceramic with black dial. Both configurations have a sunburst finished dial and unidirectional bezel made from ceramic. Choice of straps for both watches is either a NATO fabric or sail canvas strap. As a first in the Bathyscape line, the steel version will also be available on a metal bracelet.

More info on the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms family can be found on the Blancpain website.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscape Chronograph Flyback Blancpain-Fifty-Fathoms-Bathyscape-008