Beschreibung:

117 Blancpain
Manufacturer: Blancpain Year: Circa 1965 Case No: 100'939 Model Name: Fifty Fathoms Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. AS 1700, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Blancpain pin buckle Dimensions: 37mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Catalogue Essay Launched in 1953, the Fifty Fathoms was designed to meet the needs of French Navy “Frogmen” to support their underwater missions. Manufactured by Blancpain, the watches were distributed either through the French Navy supplier, Spirotechnique, or through LIP. Only the watches retailed by Blancpain sported the brand’s name, whilst the models sold through LIP were branded “Chronometre LIP, Brevets Blancpain”. The present watch, made for civilians, is housed in a large stainless steel case measuring 37mm in diameter. The gorgeous black lacquered dial features the colorful and desirable “No Radiations” symbol at 6 o’clock, as well as the rare “technisub” designation printed in white at 12 o’clock. Technisub was founded in 1963 by Luigi Ferraro former combat diver of the famous Gamma group of the Italian marine. Technisub was a distributor of Professional diving equipment including Spirotechnique, one of Blancpain's main clients. Thanks to this connection Blancpain agreed to make a very small series of Fifty Fathoms featuring Technisub on the dial. Its rotating Bakelite bezel has aged harmoniously, surviving the years with no cracks or restorations whatsoever. Exceptionally well preserved in virtually mint condition, it is a rare and attractive variant of the famous Fifty Fathoms that offers tremendous value for the collector. Read More