Ask random watch enthusiasts about the great watches of diving in history and find that 50 Fathoms from Blanpine are on the tips of many tongues. In 2023, Branpine celebrated the 70th anniversary of the legendary 50 Fathom in three acts. With a trio of completely different releases, this brand gave us a good idea about the diversity of 50 Fathoms. The one that left the biggest impression on me was the 2nd Tech Gombessa, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the 50 Fathom. As a follow-up to that release, Blancpain is launching Fifty Fathoms Tech Boc IV. This is a toned down version of Tech Gombessa for both underwater diving and everyday wear. This 100-piece Blancpine Ocean Commitment (BOC) limited edition was created to support marine preservation. We went practically with a 50 Fathom Tech Boc IV and had the opportunity to see what it was.
First, let’s go back to the 70th anniversary of 50 Fathoms soon. Looking back at Act 3, I fell in love with the looks of the 3rd volume of the bronze gold 50 Fathom 70th Anniversary. But speaking of the technological advancements of the 50 Fathoms, the high-tech Gombel was impressive. The 47mm watch featured a 3-hour dive bezel and corresponding hands. Now you can see inspiration from that model in this new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech Boc IV.
The Story of Blanpine 50 Fathom Technology Bock IV
There are two stories in the new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Tech Boc IV. The first part is that the new watch is the everyday version of the Tech Gombessa. Blanpine has reduced the titanium case from 47mm to 45mm, making it more friendly to daily wear. Additionally, the watch comes with a regular 60-minute dive bezel rather than a special 180-minute bezel decorated with high-tech gon bells. Other than that, the new 50 Fathom Tech Boc IV takes the look of the Tech Gombessa and creates a fantastic modern version of the classic Fifty Fathoms.
But that’s not where the story ends. The goal of this new limited edition is to support marine conservation through Blancpain Ocean’s commitment. Specifically, 1,000 euros from each watch sold will be sent to the Blancpain x SulubaaïMarine Research Center, an extension of the Sea Academy project and flagship initiative of the brand’s commitment to the sea. As a result, 100,000 euros will be allocated to the research centre, continuing the noble work.
Details of Blanpine 50 Fathom Technology Bock IV
So let’s take a closer look at the 50 Fathom Technology BOC IV. This watch has a 45mm grade 23 titanium case rated 14.1mm thick and 300m deep. This lightweight case features a helium escape valve on the left, next to the engraved Blanpine logo. On the right is a crown between the two beautifully carved crown guards. These crown guards now check out the cases up close when the magic of their designs is revealed.
Looking at the case from the integrated elastic strap, you will see a sharp line connecting the centers of both. It may seem simple, but this fantastic line is a critical element of the case design. Plus, you can see how impressive the rubber straps flow through the case. The “rug” in the center connects the two and hugs the sides of the case to the left and right of the strap. There is no space between the two. This will make the transition as smooth as possible. This level of detail and quality is spectacular.
A modern design that redefines blanpine to 50 fathoms
Closer locations you can see signatures in modern designs that define Tech Gombessa and the current Tech Boc IV. The case features an impressive solid one-way bezel with a black ceramic insert placed at an inclined angle to meet the sapphire crystal. The light green numbers on the bezel correspond to numbers made with time markers on the dial and solid room blocks. The room lights up incredibly in the darkness, confirming the nature of the Tech BOC IV tool watch.
The time marker is above the matte black dial, which also features a 4:30 date window. One of the details I love is how designers maximized the ultimate readability date size. Additionally, the font matches the font for the numbers on the dial. Highly polished metal surfaces of hours and minutes can disappear against black backgrounds. However, thanks to the abundant rooms, time remains readable at all times. The third hand is the blue seconds hand that corresponds to the blue “technical” text on the bottom half of the dial. This shade of blue against a black background is not the most contrasting, so it’s an interesting color choice. Again, divers use mostly time, especially the hands of instantaneously, to maximize the functionality of the watch.
Branpain company caliber 1315a
Inside the case, Blanpine is equipped with its internal caliber 1315a on the watch. The automatic movement consists of 227 parts, has 35 gems and offers a 120-hour power reserve. It also features a balance of Glucydur fleece pulling with gold regulation screws, along with a brushed finish and polished bevels that have been cleaned up over the bridge. This movement is visible through the sapphire crystal of the titanium case. The Gunmetal-Gray 18K Gold Winding Rotor features the brand’s marine commitment logo, which highlights the special purpose in which this watch was created. Each case of the final production model also features a unique LE number for the watch.
As mentioned before, this watch comes with an integrated black rubber strap that connects to the central lug. The straps are fitted from the bottom of the case with each hex screw that fits perfectly with the case. The quality of the straps is remarkable. Not only does it balance the wrist watch, but the details are very impressive. Putting extra thoughts on strap designs shows that it can become an integral part of the watch and brand identity. The strap comes with a titanium buckle with a “50 Fathom” branding, and the pins have the “technical” name.
Wearing Branpine’s 50 Fathom Technology Boc IV
On your wrist, this Blancpain 50 Fathom Technology Bock IV truly shines. Its 45mm diameter may seem daunting at first, but it feels like you’re at home with your 18.5mm wrist. The engraving of the case and downward facing rubber strap ensure it fits well. The watch is quite a bit, but I didn’t feel it was too big to wear every day. Additionally, we need to remind ourselves that this is a diving tool that benefits from larger sizes. To all fairness, the 50 Fathom Technology BOC IV does not wear like a 45mm watch. Thanks to the lug in the center, I think it feels like a 42-43mm watch. It doesn’t appear to be larger than the Omega Seamaster 300m Diver, making it more wearable than the numbers suggest.
All the small details of the watch appear on the wrist. That’s where you get a great idea of the sparkle of the case design. Firstly, it is impressive that the midcase is about two-thirds of its thickness, but the bold bezel accounts for another third. I love the design and the bezel action is majestic. The 120-click bezel grips easily and reassures an incredibly well-made watch with every click. We all agreed that sound is what we want from a dive bezel in Fratero’s office.
Final Thoughts on Branpine 50 Fathom Technology Bock IV
I thoroughly enjoyed wearing this new 50 Fathom Tech BOC IV for a few days. I love how Blancpain updated the design of Fifty Fathoms and combined modern cues with classic looks that define this legendary dive watch. Plus, the Grade 23 titanium case is beautifully finished with detailed finish and sits incredibly well on the wrist. It makes wearing a watch an absolute joy.
Furthermore, when you reach the wrist, the watch shows that it places Blancpain more than many other brands that create diving watches. The quality and details of the Fifty Fathoms Tech Boc IV are a notable step up from many of the popular diving watches we know and love. Adding in-house movements with impressive specs and beautiful finishes makes for a top-notch, luxurious dive watch.
Honestly, I thought I would prefer the appeal of classic style Branpine 50 Fathom models, including Act 3 of the 70th Anniversary, Barracuda and Norad. But after taking this more modern 50 Fathom technology BOC IV for spin, I have to admit it made a fan from me. That’s why we want to see more models in our new 50 Fathom technology line.
It’s more than just a clock…
For now, the 50 Fathom Tech BOC IV will be available as a limited edition of 100 units at a price of 23,250 euros each. Buyers will not only place this impressive watch in a pericase box, but will also receive special edition photos of a series of 100 prints numbered to match the watch’s serial number. Photographer Laurent Ballesta signs the photo, part of his series, which won the 2023 Wildlife Photographer of the Year title. The image depicts a horseshoe-shaped crab in its natural habitat around Pangatalan Island in Sharkfin Bay, the Philippines. Branpine has specifically chosen this image as horseshoe-shaped crabs face the threat of extinction.
By purchasing this watch, the new owner will support the Blancpain x SulubaaïMarine Research Center. The programme focuses on creating a network of Marine Reserves (MPAs) in collaboration with local communities around Pangatalan Island and Shark Fin Bay. Blanpine is funding the construction of the Blanpine x Sulbaai Marine Research Center in the village of Sandoval.
The centre is strategically located near the main research area and five MPAs established in Shark Fin Bay. It aims to enhance research, restoration and protection of these marine ecosystems. With the sale of limited edition technology BOC IV, the brand will further support the operation and activities of the Branpine x Sulbaai Marine Research Centre for 100,000 euros. It is a major cause that perfectly complements the impressive new Blanpine 50 Fathom design.
What do you think about the new Fifty Fathoms Tech Boc IV? Would you like to find this evolution of 50 Fathoms just as exciting as me? As always, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
This is a partnership post. Read about transparency here.
