Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic

Blancpains Ceramic Evolution

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
June 27, 2024
In the realm of horology, few names evoke the prestige and heritage of Blancpain. Founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, establishing itself as a pioneer in the industry. In the mid-20th century, Blancpain embarked on a journey that would solidify its legacy, culminating in the creation of the iconic Fifty Fathoms collection. The Fifty Fathoms, renowned for its dive watch capabilities, has since become a symbol of innovation and underwater exploration. Building upon this rich history, Blancpain unveiled the Bathyscaphe line, a refined interpretation of the Fifty Fathoms, catering to those seeking a more versatile timepiece.

The latest chapter in this horological saga unfolds with the introduction of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection. Comprising three distinct models – the Automatic, the Flyback Chronograph, and the Complete Calendar – this collection redefines the Bathyscaphe line, embracing the cutting-edge material of ceramic while preserving the essence of Blancpain's heritage. The Full Ceramic collection represents a harmonious marriage of form and function, where meticulous craftsmanship converges with technical prowess.

Courtesy of Blancpain


The Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic models exude a sense of understated luxury. The cases, measuring a balanced 43.6mm in diameter, are meticulously crafted from satin-brushed black ceramic, a material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches. The use of ceramic extends beyond the case, encompassing the bezel, dial, and bracelet, creating a cohesive aesthetic that is both visually striking and tactilely pleasing. The ceramic bracelet, a notable addition to the collection, is a testament to Blancpain's commitment to innovation. The intricate links, seamlessly integrated into the case, offer a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The deployment clasp, also crafted from ceramic, ensures effortless operation while maintaining the watch's sleek profile.

The dials of the Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic watches are a masterclass in minimalist design. The sunburst finish, available in black, blue, or green depending on the model, adds a subtle depth and dynamism to the dial, catching the light in captivating ways. The hour markers, rendered in Liquidmetal™, a proprietary alloy known for its exceptional legibility and resistance to deformation, are meticulously applied to the dial, ensuring optimal visibility in any lighting condition. The hands, also fashioned from Liquidmetal™, complement the hour markers, their sleek forms tracing the passage of time with precision and grace.

Courtesy of Blancpain


The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection offers a diverse range of complications to suit the discerning tastes of watch enthusiasts. The Automatic model, the quintessential diver's watch, features a simple yet elegant time-only display with a date window at 4:30. The Flyback Chronograph, equipped with the F385 automatic movement, provides the wearer with the ability to time events with unparalleled accuracy. The Complete Calendar model, powered by the 6654.P.4 automatic movement, boasts a comprehensive display of the date, day, month, and moon phase, making it a true horological companion for everyday wear.

The incorporation of ceramic in the Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection is not merely a stylistic choice; it also serves a practical purpose. Ceramic, known for its exceptional hardness and resistance to scratches, ensures that the watches maintain their pristine appearance even after years of wear. Furthermore, ceramic is hypoallergenic, making it an ideal material for those with sensitive skin. The combination of these properties makes the Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic watches not only beautiful but also eminently wearable.

Courtesy of Blancpain


The Bathyscaphe Automatic, priced at $21,300, is the quintessential diver's watch, stripped down to its essential elements. It eschews extraneous complications, focusing instead on providing accurate timekeeping and exceptional readability. At its heart beats the Blancpain calibre 1315, a self-winding movement renowned for its robustness and precision. This workhorse movement boasts a remarkable 120-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch remains accurate even after days of inactivity. The case, a mere 13.8mm thick, belies the watch's technical complexity, making it exceptionally comfortable to wear on any wrist.

For those seeking a more dynamic timepiece, the Bathyscaphe Flyback Chronograph, available in black or green and priced at $26,000, is a compelling choice. Powered by the F385 automatic movement, this watch offers a flyback chronograph function, allowing the wearer to reset and restart the chronograph with a single push of a button. This feature is particularly useful for timing consecutive events, such as laps in a race. The chronograph pushers, seamlessly integrated into the ceramic case, operate with a satisfyingly tactile click, while the chronograph seconds hand glides effortlessly across the dial.

Courtesy of Blancpain


The Bathyscaphe Complete Calendar, available in black, green, or blue and priced at $26,000, is the most complex model in the collection. It features a complete calendar complication, displaying the date, day, month, and moon phase. The moon phase display, a poetic touch, adds a touch of whimsy to the otherwise utilitarian dial. The watch is powered by the 6654.P.4 automatic movement, a testament to Blancpain's mastery of haute horlogerie. This movement boasts a 72-hour power reserve and features a silicon balance spring, ensuring exceptional accuracy and resistance to magnetic fields.

Beyond the technical specifications, the Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic watches are replete with subtle details that elevate them to the realm of true luxury. The ceramic bezels, for instance, are not merely functional; they are also works of art, their intricate patterns and textures a testament to Blancpain's attention to detail. The dials, with their sunburst finishes and meticulously applied hour markers, are a joy to behold, their minimalist design belying the complexity of the movements that lie beneath. Even the ceramic bracelets, often overlooked in the world of watchmaking, are meticulously crafted, their links articulating smoothly and comfortably on the wrist.

Courtesy of Blancpain


The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. These watches are not merely timekeeping instruments; they are wearable works of art, imbued with a rich history and a passion for horological excellence. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of fine watchmaking, the Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection offers a timepiece for every taste and occasion. With its understated elegance, technical prowess, and exceptional wearability, this collection is sure to captivate watch enthusiasts for years to come.

In the world of luxury watches, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Full Ceramic collection stands as a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Each model within the collection, be it the Automatic, the Flyback Chronograph, or the Complete Calendar, exudes a unique charm and technical prowess, catering to the diverse tastes of watch aficionados. The use of ceramic, a material renowned for its durability and aesthetic appeal, elevates the collection to new heights of luxury and sophistication.
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