In exciting news, this weekend Swatch released its Blancpain collaboration. Founded in 1735, Blancpain is one of the world’s oldest watch brands. Over its long lifespan, the brand has built up an impressive luxury portfolio as well as a worldwide reputation for exceptional quality. Following in the footsteps of last year’s globally successful Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch range, Blancpain is Swatch’s second luxury collaboration. Five bright new models make up the launch which, just like the MoonSwatches, will be exclusively available in Swatch stores. Without further ado, let’s get stuck into the crux of the new Blancpain x Swatch collaboration releases.
The New Blancpain x Swatch Collaboration Releases
Paying homage to one of the first ‘true’ diver’s watches, the new collection takes inspiration from Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms model. Designed by a devoted scuba diver, the original Fifty Fathoms is widely regarded as the first watch to meet all the needs of an underwater expedition. This year, the original model celebrates its 70th anniversary, making this launch impeccable timing for Blancpain fans.
Whilst retaining the iconic design of the Fifty Fathoms, the new models also exhibit some classic Swatch touches. For example, part of their design uses elements from Swatch’s own diving range, the SCUBA. Moreover, made from Bioceramic, each piece boasts a physically and visually powerful build.
Distinctive Features
There are lots of distinctive features to love about these new models. For instance, in keeping with the new collection’s diving roots, each of the five watches takes its name from a different deep sea. Additionally, their namesake also informs the baseline colour scheme for each model. So, whilst the Antarctic model boasts a snowy-grey silhouette, the Indian Ocean piece incorporates colours from the Indian flag.
Mechanically, the Blancpain x Swatch collection also excels. Its SISTEM51 mechanical movement is Swiss-made and impressively only features 51 parts. One of these 51 parts is a Nivachron balance spring, which protects the watch from magnetic interference. Moreover, this calibre also gives the watch its outstanding 90-hour autonomy and exceptional precision.
Overleaf, this movement is viewable through each watch’s sapphire crystal exhibition case back. But, in typical Swatch style, it has a playful twist. The movement’s components feature an illustration of each model’s namesake ocean, as well as an additional motif of an underwater sea creature.
This non-limited range is now available to purchased from selected Swatch stores. However, please note that the sale of the Blancpain x Swatch models has the restriction of one watch per person, per store and per day.
