In Dubai, Blancpain launched their newest addition to the Fifty Fathoms collection at the largest aquarium in the world – the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in the Dubai Mall. This new model features many world firsts in innovation and is designed with the professional diver in mind. This exceptional timepiece is inspired by a watch that Blancpain used to produce in 1953. The X Fathoms is fitted with a mechanical depth gauge, making this watch a must-have for any serious professional diver.
The mechanical depth gauge has the ability to measure depths of 90 meters and also comes equipped with a memory for the maximum depth reached during any single dive. The mechanical depth gauge is located on the dial on an internal scale, which counts from 0-90. At the 10:30 position is a retrograde 5 meter decompression stop scale. On the flange is the maximum depth gauge, which counts up to 15 meters. The maximum depth counter has a tiny variance of +/- 30cm. All of the elements on this watch are luminous with three different colors to differentiate the various counters. The hours are marked using luminous dots and Arabic numerals at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 positions.
The case is crafted from titanium, which is lighter than steel and 5 times stronger. The case comes in the truly oversized dimensions of 55.65mm. Naturally, the main crown is screw locked, which enables the water resistance of 300 meters (30 bars). At the 10 position on the case is a helium decompression valve for the automatic release of built up gases during prolonged dives. The unidirectional bezel is black and features white markings, which gives excellent contrast. The Blancpain X Fathoms is outfitted with a black rubber strap.
The X Fathoms is powered by an accurate self-winding movement caliber 9918B. This movement features an amazing 5 day power reserve due to the three barrels found in the X Fathoms. The 9918B is loosely based on the caliber 1315. The movement caliber 1315 has proven its mettle, as this movement has been the driving force behind many of the other Fifty Fathoms watches over the years.
