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Fun and affordability are two concepts that rarely collide in the watch industry, but they’re new to Swatch, and they don’t. While the Swatch x Omega Moonswatch was a global phenomenon, the Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms collaboration was definitely a close second. It probably doesn’t have the same hype as the Speedy, but it certainly makes for a nice alternative to the $16,000 Fifty Fathoms, and is more wearable (42.5mm) compared to Blancpain’s 45mm behemoth. It is certain that it was the case size (although it is now smaller, 42.3mm size).
Of course, it didn’t take long for skeptics to start tempering their enthusiasm. Will the watch’s bioceramic case survive underwater? And what to do about Swatch’s sealed Sistem51 movement, which is clearly not designed for repair? Enthusiasts are also wondering if the watch’s fragile bio-based Glass was immediately pointed out. Despite these concerns, the Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Bioceramic had (and still does) a lot to offer. The case is lightweight, promises 91 meters of water resistance, glows like a flashlight in the dark, and boasts some really cool features that nod to Blancpain’s heritage and work in the field of marine conservation. For example, consider the small sea slug motif (a type of colorful sea slug) on the movement’s rotor and the hex screws on the perforated lugs. Or does the “scuba” circle on the Antarctic version’s dial double as a moisture indicator? Still, if you’re wondering what else is on sale in the same price range, you have options. Here are 6 products that we consider to be the best alternatives to Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms. You may notice that none of these watches cost less than the Swatch, which shows the great value this piece still offers, but if you don’t mind stretching your budget, you can get even more You have several options.
Le Forban Marouine
Creating modern watches that look like mid-century diving tools is Le Forban’s forte, so when it comes to alternatives to the Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms, you’re sure to find something suitable in the brand’s catalog. Malouine is a great example. Because this model has that all-important neo-vintage appeal, underpinned by a design that is extremely robust and practical for everyday wear. At 38.4 mm in diameter, this watch doesn’t take up much space, but the black sector dial is sure to grab attention. The Tropic style silicone strap is also a good choice when compared to the stiff fabric that Swatch offers. Now you can enjoy being in the water without having to wait years for the strap to dry. Instead, the band is supple and durable, complementing the impressive 150 meter water-resistant steel case. A nice detailing touch is the engraved caseback that depicts the image of a diving helmet, and the Miyota 8215 movement is hidden behind that decoration. Price $445
Spinnaker Fruce 40 Automatic 145th Limited Edition
The seventh release in the Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms series is the blue-hued Blue Lagoon, with a bioceramic case that evokes the Tambja Mullineri, the striking nudibranch that lives in the lagoon. So if color is the most appealing factor to you, Spinnaker watches may be worth considering. More specifically, take a look at the 145th limited edition automatic, released to commemorate diving engineer Henry Fruth’s rebreather tests. The microbrand may not have taken direct inspiration from Fifty Fathoms in particular, but the heavily applied luminescent marker Fleuss, luminescent bezel and curved mineral glass make this Swatch x Blancpain collaboration a surprise. They are reasonably similar.
The bezel is an element that both models have a lot in common, but the Spinnaker Fleuss has better specs. Take, for example, a Seiko movement with 150 meters of water resistance and a more robust sapphire crystal glass top. But the best thing about the Fleuss series has to be its playful color palette. This 40mm dive watch features orange and purple, deep blue and vintage rose, coral and muted stone dials and bezels. Price: $450
Baltic Aquascape Baltic Blue Gilt
French micro-brand Baltic has been keeping its ear on the diver’s watch scene since launching the brand’s flagship diver, the Aquascaphe, in 2018. Its name alludes to the Blancpain Bathyscaphe model, and it similarly faithfully reproduces the manageable proportions of the 39mm Aquascarf Classic Blue Gilt model. Reminiscent of the Bakelite bezels used on early diver’s watches, the Baltic Aquascape retains the look of diver’s watches of yesteryear, but is actually a double-domed sapphire crystal with extra protection. Made of sapphire to match the front. A nice, no-frills alternative to the Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms watch, this model replaces the water resistance of the Swatch collaboration, instead promising 200 meters of water resistance. Rice bead bracelets are another classic diver-inspired touch, but these advances come at a higher price point. This luxurious bracelet was first developed by Swiss manufacturer Gay Frères and fits naturally on the wrist, very aptly capturing the advent of the tool watch era. Price: from A$1,000 (T+T Shop AU), £590 (T+T Shop UK)
Elon Marinol Caribbean Blue
The Caribbean Blue Heron Marinol’s hardened stainless steel case features an impressive 1200HV rating and won’t let you down, whether you swim with it or not. If you’re considering the former, it’s safe to do so. This watch promises 300 meters of water resistance, making it one of the most impressive choices on this list. The dial has a subtle fumé effect finish that perfectly reflects the enchanting colors of the sea. The clasp also has adjustment for divers, and blue Super-LumiNova detailing ensures excellent visibility underwater. Price: $620
Bulova Mill Ships
Just as Blancpain pays homage to 1950s French naval tools with a more modern interpretation, Bulova offers a modern millship recreation of the 1957 U.S. Navy prototype. With similar roots to the Fifty Fathoms, the Mil Ships exudes an authentic mid-century military diver aesthetic and, like the Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Antarctic, also features a moisture indicator on the dial. . What makes Mill Ships even more appealing to me is the fact that it’s not your run-of-the-mill vintage reissue. In fact, unlike the brand’s 2015 relaunch of the Lunar Pilot (originally supporting astronaut David Scott on NASA’s moon mission), the 1957 Mil Ships Watch A prototype for the company was never even commercialized. Granted, the design has been shelved, but the fact that this modern interpretation lacks polish instills the notion that this watch was created for a pure purpose. Price: $895
