Blancpain has unveiled the Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV, the latest limited-edition diver’s watch designed to support marine conservation. As the fourth timepiece in the Ocean Commitment series since 2014, this release reinforces the brand’s dedication to ocean preservation. For over two decades, Blancpain has played a crucial role in funding oceanographic expeditions, establishing marine protected areas, and promoting citizen science programs. Through partnerships with Pristine Seas and Gombessa, the brand has contributed to vital marine biodiversity research, influencing policies that have safeguarded millions of square kilometers of ocean.
Crafted with a titanium case, a black dial, and a ceramic bezel, the Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV combines durability with perfect underwater readability. Powered by the automatic calibre 1315A, it ensures precision and resilience, making it a true tool watch for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Proof of this is the addition of a helium escape valve which is designed for saturation diving, where divers spend extended periods in pressurized environments, such as diving bells or underwater habitats. Limited to just 100 pieces, proceeds from this timepiece will directly support the Sulubaaï Marine Research Center in the Philippines, further extending Blancpain’s impact on ocean conservation.
The case of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV is made of Grade 23 titanium, a material that is both lightweight and highly resistant to corrosion. With a diameter of 45 mm and a thickness of 14.1 mm, the watch is designed to withstand the pressures of deep-sea diving. It features a helium valve at 10 o’clock, allowing for safe decompression after saturation dives. The unidirectional bezel has a domed black ceramic insert and is angled towards the dial, ensuring easy operation even with gloves. The sapphire crystal on both the front and back provides scratch resistance and allows for a clear view of the movement inside.
The dial of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV is designed for maximum readability in low-light and deep-sea conditions. Its matte black surface is coated with a special material that absorbs up to 97% of light, creating an ‘absolute black’ effect that minimizes reflections and enhances contrast. The luminescent block-shaped hour markers ensure outstanding visibility even in the darkest depths, while the broad sword-shaped hands, also coated with luminescent paint, emphasize critical timekeeping functions. A blue central seconds hand adds a technical touch, standing out against the dark dial. Maintaining a clean and balanced aesthetic, the watch features a discreet date window at 4:30, offering practicality without disrupting the symmetry. The inscriptions ‘Fifty Fathoms’ and ‘Automatic’ are printed in white, complementing the overall color scheme and reinforcing its professional dive watch character.
At the heart of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV is the automatic calibre 1315A, a movement renowned for its robustness, precision, and extended power reserve. Originally introduced in 2007, the calibre 1315 was designed to meet the rigorous demands of professional divers, offering exceptional reliability under extreme conditions. It features three mainspring barrels, delivering an impressive 120-hour (five-day) power reserve, ensuring consistent performance even during prolonged dives. The glucydur free-sprung balance with gold regulation screws enhances stability and precision, while the anti-magnetic silicon balance spring ensures resistance to magnetic fields, maintaining accurate timekeeping in fluctuating environments. Adding a refined touch, the 18 ct gold oscillating weight, adorned with the blue Blancpain Ocean Commitment logo, is visible through the sapphire case back, allowing a glimpse into Blancpain’s meticulous craftsmanship.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV comes with an integrated black rubber strap. This choice of material ensures durability and resistance to saltwater, making it suitable for diving. The strap is designed with comfort in mind and features a secure fit on the wrist. The central lugs, attached from inside the case, enhance the watch’s ergonomics and give it a sleek appearance. A titanium pin buckle ensures that the watch remains securely on the wrist, even in extreme conditions.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV is a limited edition watch, with only 100 pieces available. Each watch comes with a protective box by manufacturer Pelican, a donation certificate, and a special edition photograph signed by photographer Laurent Ballesta. The proceeds from the sale will benefit the Sulubaaï Marine Research Center in the Philippines, with 1,000 euros from each watch going to the project. The Fifty Fathoms Tech BOC IV costs 22,900 EUR.
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