The Fifty Fathoms came out in 1953 and set the pattern every dive watch still follows: a dark dial with luminous markers, a rotating bezel that locks against accidental turns, an automatic movement and a well-sealed case. It was developed with the French Navy's combat divers. Today it is the dive watch for buyers who want fine watchmaking rather than a tool. We have 361 Fifty Fathoms in stock, from $5,370.
By the numbers: Switzerland exported CHF 25.9 billion of watches in 2024, 2.8% less than in 2023, in 15.3 million pieces (9.4% fewer), according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (swissinfo.ch, 30 January 2025).
Two families
| Fifty Fathoms (Automatique) | Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Domed sapphire bezel, glossy dial, polished case | Flatter ceramic bezel, cleaner dial, brushed case |
| Sizes | 45 mm; 42 mm since 2023 | 43 mm and 38 mm |
| Character | The dressier, more luxurious diver | The sportier, more modern one |
| Water resistance | 300 m | 300 m |
| Movement | Calibre 1315, three barrels, about five days of power reserve | Calibre 1315 (43 mm) or 1150 (38 mm) |
Both families include chronographs, and the range extends to complications such as a tourbillon and a full calendar. Check the reference on the listing.
What sets it apart
- The bezel. The classic Fifty Fathoms has a bezel insert of domed sapphire over luminous numerals. Nothing else looks like it.
- The movement. Calibre 1315 runs for about five days and is finished to a standard you see through the display back: beveled edges, a solid gold rotor on many versions.
- The name. Blancpain dates itself to 1735 and has never made a quartz watch.
Which size?
The 45 mm is the modern classic but it is large and best on a bigger wrist. The 42 mm, introduced for the watch's 70th anniversary and then added to the regular collection, suits most people. The Bathyscaphe 43 mm wears smaller than the classic because it is thinner and brushed, and the 38 mm is one of the few serious dive watches made for small wrists. Our size guide shows how to measure.
What it costs
In our stock, the Fifty Fathoms starts at $5,370 and typically costs $16,150. Steel and titanium on a sailcloth strap are the entry point; gold and complications sit higher.
How it compares
Against a Rolex Submariner, the Fifty Fathoms offers a longer power reserve, a display back and far greater rarity; the Submariner is slimmer and easier to resell. For other options, see the best dive watches.
Shop the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms.
Related guide: Blancpain Villeret buying guide, the brand's dress collection.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Fifty Fathoms?
Fifty fathoms is about 91 meters, which in 1953 was considered the greatest depth a diver could safely reach with the equipment of the time.
Was the Fifty Fathoms the first dive watch?
It is widely regarded as the first modern dive watch, introduced in 1953 with the features that later became the standard for the category.
What is the difference between the Fifty Fathoms and the Bathyscaphe?
The Bathyscaphe is the simpler, sportier version with a ceramic bezel and a brushed case. The classic Fifty Fathoms has the domed sapphire bezel and a more luxurious finish.
Is Blancpain a high-end brand?
Yes. It sits among the top Swiss watchmakers, makes its own movements, and belongs to the Swatch Group's prestige division.
