Blancpain has released the "Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary 'Act 3'" in a limited edition of 555 pieces. This 41.3mm timepiece reinterprets the MIL-SPEC model adopted by the U.S. Navy in the 1950s, featuring a case crafted from 9K bronze gold for a vintage appeal.

Blancpain introduces the new "Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary 'Act 3'," inspired by the non-magnetic model used by the U.S. Navy in the 1950s. The matte black dial features a black ceramic unidirectional bezel with a water-resistance indicator, vintage-style luminous indices, and a diving scale. Complementing this is a black and gold NATO strap, echoing the original model's color scheme and made from reclaimed fishing nets.

Unlike the original model, the case material is distinct. While the prototype was made of nickel silver, this iteration utilizes 9K bronze gold. This patented alloy comprises 37.5 percent gold (hallmarked 9K), 50 percent bronze (meeting the criteria for the 'bronze' designation), silver, palladium, and gallium, offering a pinkish hue and an exquisite appearance. Furthermore, the addition of gold, unlike traditional bronze, allows for direct skin contact and eliminates the formation of verdigris due to oxidation, while also enhancing durability. This commemorative model honors the heritage of military watches while meeting the demands of contemporary daily wear.

The case maintains the MIL-SPEC model's 41.3mm diameter. The self-winding movement features a double barrel for a 100-hour power reserve and a silicon balance spring for enhanced anti-magnetism. Through the openworked case back, one can admire the bridges spread across the richly decorated mainplate, reminiscent of the era. The rotor, inspired by historical designs, incorporates openings to improve flexibility and shock resistance, finished with a swirling pattern that evokes rotational movement. Engraved 18K gold lettering of the period's logo further accentuates the watch's vintage character.

The "Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary 'Act 3'" is presented in a box inspired by vintage camera cases, a nod to Blancpain's ocean conservation efforts and the intertwined history of marine exploration and underwater photography that has evolved alongside dive watches.

Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary "Act 3"
Ref. | 5901 5630 NANA
Movement | Self-winding (Calibre 1154.P2)
Power Reserve | 100 hours
Case Diameter | 41.3mm
Case Material | 9K Bronze Gold
Water Resistance | 30 bar
Strap Material | NATO Fabric
Price | ¥4,422,000 (incl. tax)
Release Date | Undetermined
Quantity | World limited to 555 pieces