Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe 5000-1110-B52A

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe, ref. 5000-1110-B52A, represents the cornerstone of the modern Bathyscaphe collection, first introduced at Baselworld 2013. Its historical significance is immense, as it marked the official relaunch of the Bathyscaphe line, a historic name from the 1950s that served as a more civilian-oriented alternative to the larger Fifty Fathoms. This reference established the design language for the new generation: a 43mm satin-brushed stainless steel case, sharp faceted lugs, and a cleaner, more minimalist dial aesthetic. It features a “meteor grey” sunburst dial with simple, luminous dot and baton markers, along with the signature syringe-style hands that pay homage to the vintage models. The unidirectional bezel is fitted with a black ceramic insert and Liquidmetal™ markers, blending vintage design cues with modern, durable materials. At its heart is the in-house Caliber 1315, a high-performance automatic movement praised for its robust architecture and impressive 120-hour (5-day) power reserve, thanks to three series-coupled barrels. The movement’s silicon balance spring also provides excellent anti-magnetic properties. The “B52A” suffix denotes delivery on a black sailcloth strap with a pin buckle, completing its utilitarian-chic look.