Brand
Blancpain Tribute to Fifty Fathoms No Rad for Only Watch
Blancpain, who has been supporting the Monaco Association against Muscular Dystrophy since its creation in 2001, renews its participation to the charity auction Only Watch. The Maison has chosen to dedicate a one-of-a-kind, Tribute to Fifty Fathoms No Rad model, to this noble cause. This exclusive timepiece inspired by an iconic Blancpain historical timing instrument joins the ranks of the rare and highly prized "No Rad" collector's items, coveted by watch enthusiasts. This unique iteration will be awarded to the highest bidder, in Geneva, on November 6th 2021.
The Tribute to Fifty Fathoms No Rad watch revisits a Blancpain diving instrument from the mid-60s, which was notably used by the German Navy's Combat Swimmers. The latter has the characteristic feature of a stamp on the dial with a "no radiations" logo indicating that Blancpain did not use luminescent materials composed of radium – a highly radioactive element declared harmful to health. This distinctive symbol has forged the success of this timepiece, which has become one of the most sought-after Fifty Fathoms watches among collectors.
The Tribute to Fifty Fathoms No Rad watch revisits a Blancpain diving instrument from the mid-60s, which was notably used by the German Navy's Combat Swimmers. The latter has the characteristic feature of a stamp on the dial with a "no radiations" logo indicating that Blancpain did not use luminescent materials composed of radium – a highly radioactive element declared harmful to health. This distinctive symbol has forged the success of this timepiece, which has become one of the most sought-after Fifty Fathoms watches among collectors.
The model created for Only Watch is characterised by a chapter ring, hands and a bezel time scale featuring orange-coloured Super-LumiNova. Bespoke to this special piece, this acidulous shade refers to the colour representing the 2021 edition of Only Watch. The dominant element on the dial remains the "no radiations" logo, whose original yellow and red colours have been replaced by orange and yellow, respectively.
Founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain in the Swiss Jura, Blancpain is known as the world’s oldest watch brand. Loyal to its tradition of innovation and confirmed by countless horological complications invented over the years, the Manufacture is constantly pushing the boundaries of watchmaking to take this art to places where it has never been before. Today, Blancpain pursues its enduring commitment to the renewal of mechanical horology. From creating components to designing watches, Blancpain is distinguished by its capacity to develop exceptional timepieces, which are the results of its master-watchmakers' creativity and passion. This philosophy is conveyed through each of the brand’s creations and all its collections, including the classic Villeret, the legendary Fifty Fathoms diver’s watch or the delicate women models.