Arguably the first modern dive watch ever, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms was released in 1953 on commission for the French 'Frogmen' – an elite military group of combat swimmers. Designed with strict requirements in mind, the Fifty Fathom's was tasked with keeping its wearers alive on their life or death military missions. From life or death situations to its luxurious existence today, the Fifty Fathoms has evolved into both; Blancpain's most famous model, and one of the most important dive watches we have in horology today. Perhaps one of the most fashion-forward variants of this iconic diver, the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe was launched as a smaller version of the Fifty Fathoms in 1956 to cater to civilian uses. Leaning into that aesthetic, Blancpain and HODINKEE collaborated on the watch that we have here, the ref. 5100 1130 63A from 2019. Launched as a limited edition of just 100 pieces exclusive to HODINKEE’s website and Blancpain’s New York and Las Vegas boutiques, this timepiece features then Bathyscaphe’s 38mm construction with a black time-only display that features fauxtina lume on its hour markers and hands that gives the watch a distinctly vintage look on the wrist. Fitted with a black ceramic bezel to inject the watch with some modern technology, the ref. 5100 1130 63A is a wonderful combination of vintage sensibilities and modern capabilities, as best communicated through its wonderfully robust automatic cal. 1153 movement, with a huge 100 hours of power reserve, which is in keeping with the rest of this timepiece's outstanding design, construction and heritage.

The watch is in like-new condition, showing only light signs of wear and a couple of minor marks from strap changes. It comes complete with its original box and papers as well as accessories.

The ultimate divers watch thanks to its rich heritage, robust iconic design, and impeccable craftsmanship, the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe has everything one could want in a watch of this nature, and this limited edition variant is all the more charming with its ceramic bezel, fauxtina lume, and powerful cal. 1153 movement.