Blancpain, a name synonymous with horological innovation and a deep-seated connection to the marine world, introduces a significant addition to its revered Fifty Fathoms collection: The Fifty Fathoms Tech Ocean Commitment IV. This isn't just a new model; it's a testament to Blancpain's enduring dedication to ocean conservation, manifested in a limited-edition timepiece that embodies both technical prowess and philanthropic purpose.
The story of
Blancpain is intertwined with the history of diving itself. In 1953, the original Fifty Fathoms emerged as a pioneer, defining the very archetype of the modern diver's watch. Crafted at the behest of the French Navy's elite combat divers, it was a tool watch built for purpose, boasting unprecedented water resistance and legibility. This heritage of innovation and a commitment to the underwater realm has been a constant thread throughout Blancpain's history, leading to the establishment of the Blancpain Ocean Commitment (BOC) initiative.
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The Fifty Fathoms Tech Ocean Commitment IV builds upon the legacy of the Fifty Fathoms collection, specifically drawing inspiration from the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 2 Tech Gombessa. The Tech Gombessa, was a collaboration with Laurent Ballesta, a marine biologist and underwater photographer, designed to meet the rigorous demands of technical diving. The BOC IV retains the technical DNA of the Gombessa, incorporating features essential for professional divers, while also integrating a strong message of ocean conservation.
The watch presents a robust, yet refined, presence. Its 45mm case, crafted from Grade 23 titanium, strikes a balance between substantial size and lightweight comfort. Titanium, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, is an ideal material for a watch destined for the rigors of underwater exploration. The choice of this advanced titanium alloy reflects Blancpain's commitment to utilizing cutting-edge materials. The case has a thickness of 14.1 mm.
The unidirectional bezel, a crucial element of any diver's watch, is designed for intuitive and secure operation. It features a domed black ceramic insert, angled inwards towards the dial. This subtle curvature not only enhances grip, even when wearing diving gloves, but also contributes to the watch's streamlined profile. The ceramic insert offers scratch resistance, ensuring that the bezel retains its pristine appearance even after extended use in harsh underwater environments.
Courtesy of Blancpain
Moving inward, the dial of the Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV showcases a dedication to optimal legibility. The "absolute black" dial serves as the backdrop, absorbing a remarkable 97% of light. This creates a stark contrast against the luminous, block-shaped hour markers, ensuring that the time can be read clearly even in the darkest depths. The absence of unnecessary embellishments on the dial further reinforces the watch's tool-watch character, prioritizing function over frivolous aesthetics.
The integration of the black rubber strap is another thoughtful design element. Rather than traditional lugs, the strap is connected to the case via central lugs located inside the case itself. This creates a smooth, seamless transition between the case and strap, resulting in enhanced ergonomics and a modern, integrated aesthetic. The rubber strap, coupled with a pin buckle clasp, provides a secure and comfortable fit, ideal for both diving and everyday wear.
Encased within the titanium shell is the heart of the watch: Blancpain's in-house Caliber 1315A. This automatic movement is a testament to Blancpain's watchmaking expertise, boasting an impressive 120-hour power reserve, equivalent to five days. This extended power reserve means the watch can be left unworn for several days without needing to be reset, a practical feature for those who rotate their timepieces.
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The Caliber 1315A is not just about power; it's also about precision and resilience. It features a silicon balance spring, a cutting-edge component that is immune to magnetism, a common enemy of mechanical watches. This ensures consistent chronometric performance, regardless of exposure to magnetic fields encountered in various environments. The movement's secure construction and 35 jewels further contribute to its reliability and longevity. The movement has a frequencey of 4 Hz. The movement is made up of 227 components.
The sapphire crystal case back allows a view of the meticulously finished movement, including the 18-carat gold oscillating weight. This rotor is adorned with the blue BOC logo, a subtle yet significant detail that underscores the watch's connection to Blancpain's ocean conservation efforts. Every detail, from the movement's decoration to the choice of materials, reflects a dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
A unique attribute of this timepiece is the helium escape valve. This feature is critical for saturation divers, who work at extreme depths for extended periods, breathing a mixture of gases that includes helium. Helium molecules, being extremely small, can penetrate the watch case during prolonged exposure at high pressure. During decompression, these molecules can expand, potentially damaging the watch. The helium escape valve allows these molecules to safely exit the case, preventing any potential harm.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech Ocean Commitment IV represents more than just a high-performance dive watch. It's a tangible expression of Blancpain's commitment to protecting our oceans. With a limited production of only 100 pieces, each watch carries a deeper significance. For every watch sold, 1,000 euros will be donated to the Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center, totaling a substantial 100,000 euro contribution.
Courtesy of Blancpain
The Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center, inaugurated in February 2025, is a key initiative in Blancpain's ongoing support of the Sea Academy program. Located in the village of Sandoval, near Pangatalan Island and Shark Fin Bay in the Philippines, the center is strategically positioned to facilitate research, restoration, and protection of vital marine ecosystems. This area is home to a network of marine protected areas (MPAs) established in collaboration with local communities, emphasizing a sustainable and collaborative approach to conservation.
The Sea Academy program, supported by Blancpain since 2020, focuses on four core principles: protection, restoration, education, and replication. The newly established research center will significantly enhance the ability to study and safeguard these fragile environments. The funds generated from the sale of the BOC IV will directly support the center's operations and activities.
Beyond the monetary contribution, each owner of the Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV receives a unique package that further connects them to Blancpain's conservation efforts. This includes a Pelicase™ box, a donation certificate, and a special edition photograph from a series of 100 prints, each numbered to match the watch's serial number. The photograph, signed by renowned photographer Laurent Ballesta, is part of his award-winning series and depicts a horseshoe crab in its natural habitat around Pangatalan Island. This ancient creature, whose morphology has remained virtually unchanged for 150 million years, is now facing extinction. The marine protected areas supported by Blancpain offer a vital refuge for this species and countless others.
Furthermore, owners of the BOC IV are granted an exclusive invitation to join the Blancpain Ocean Commitment Circle, a community of individuals dedicated to ocean preservation. This initiative fosters a sense of shared purpose and provides opportunities to engage with Blancpain's ongoing conservation projects.
Courtesy of Blancpain
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech Ocean Commitment IV is a striking combination of technical excellence and philanthropic dedication. It's a watch that speaks to those who appreciate fine watchmaking, but also recognize the urgent need to protect our oceans. The limited production run ensures exclusivity, adding to its appeal for collectors.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech Ocean Commitment IV is priced at $21,300 USD. It is a timepiece that makes a statement, not only about its wearer's appreciation for fine watchmaking but also about their commitment to a larger cause. It is a watch that is a symbol of ocean stewardship and a tangible contribution to the preservation of our planet's most vital resource. The availabilty is very limited as well, as only 100 of these watches were made.
Case: 45 mm Diameter, 14.1 mm Thickness. Grade 23 Titanium. 30 bar Water Resistance. Sapphire Back. Unidirectional sapphire bezel. Decompression valve.
Movement: Caliber 1315A. Automatic. 5.65 mm Thickness. 120-hour Power Reserve. 4 Hz Frequency. 35 Jewels. 227 Components. Silicon balance spring. Secure movement.
Dial: Black Color.
Strap: Rubber Material. Rubber Strap. Pin Buckle Clasp.
Price: 21,300 USD
Reference Number: 5029A 12B30 64A
Notes: Limited Edition of 100 pieces. Part of the proceeds go to the Blancpain x Sulubaaï Marine Research Center.