Blancpain Fifty Fathoms GMT 40.5 ref. 2250.1130.71 Trilogy Collection – on Bracelet, Serviced in 2021

In the early 1950s, the French government established the ”Nageuers de combat” – an elite cadre of combat swimmers whose missions comprised underwater intelligence, sabotage operations, and covert warfare. Their captain, Bob Maloubier, understood that his team needed a robust watch capable of withstanding the exacting tasks they were expected to perform, so he drew up a rough sketch for one and approached Blancpain. One thing led to another, and, in 1953 – a whole year before the Submariner would make its debut at the Basel Watch Fair – the Fifty Fathoms was born. The rest, as they say, is history.
The watch on offer here represents a contemporary take on the iconic original.
The Fifty Fathoms GMT somewhat strays from the design of its predecessors, opting for an even sturdier all-steel construction. Its case measures just over 40 mm in diameter and is mirror-polished, whereas the bracelet combines polished and delicately-brushed elements. The cherry on top has to be the bead-blasted GMT bezel, which contrasts the bright luster of the case and lends the watch a decidedly utilitarian vibe. Equally functionally oriented is the minimalist black dial adorned with luminous markers and sword hands that ensure peerless legibility in any environment they might have to face. Of course, since it is a full-fledged professional diving instrument, the FF GMT boasts a water-resistance rating of 300m/1000ft. Last but definitely not least, it is powered by one of Blancpain’s most impressive movements – the cal. 5A50, which is confidently ticking away protected by the solid caseback.
Our offering is in excellent condition – serviced in 2021 and keeping perfect time, but regrettably comes without any of its original boxes or papers.

The watch is covered by 1 year of limited warranty from ChronoTimepieces.