Why is Nobody Talking About the 42mm Blancpain Fifty Fathoms?

[@ID-Guy]

A watch that most of us have been asking about for almost a decade? Blancpain has finally delivered on a model that is both a more wearable size and a mainline produce (non-Limited Edition) but alas the Price, Swatch Scuba collab and lack of a refreshing design for this 42mm model has left most of us cold. How do you think they could've better launched this new line? 🥃

[@localheroEd]

They needed this model out BEFORE the swatch scuba.

[@ID-Guy]

@@localheroEd Right?? I keep getting this feeling that the "template" or prototype for these 42mm cases were tested and verified with the Swatch Scuba. But then I think the Act 1 Anniversary model was also 42mm (with the same case) 🥃

[@mikewinston8709]

The date kills it; destroys the visual balance.

[@prao4166]

Bang on review. A big yawn. A decade to innovate and they introduce the Fifty Fathoms “58” with a diametrically opposite reception.

[@vaughan2203]

Needed to mention was the Swatch/Blancpain plastic watch collab, and no one cared.

[@gabyeah101]

You only buy the BPFF after you own your Submariner and scratch that itch of public perception of Brand Name vs High Horology. People are vain!

[@freshwaterfishman]

The Blancpain Swatch Fifty Fathoms is better looking.

[@ID-Guy]

And just more vibrant with different colours and styles. Must say that black-out model is looking more fantastic by the day 🥃

[@cameronthurman2512]

I’m so excited about the new size. I’ve been very bummed that so little has been on KZbin about the new watch. This will be my next big watch purchase.

[@meson183]

Hey @IDGuy , I don't know if you noticed, but the watch you featured in your video thumbnail is the 45mm titanium version in blue; not the new 42mm as implied. The new 42mm ones do not have the step dial. Instead the 42mm's dial is a cleaner single level with an edge to edge sunburst. Also, those looking at this watch, and wanting a 40mm instead, consider this: that is exactly the same case design as it's 45mm sibling. The same case design with features that mitigate the 45mm size; like the lug design and the way the case flanks are curved inward. The same features that make the 45mm wear slightly smaller than the 45mm stat would suggest, are also present on the new 42mm. So that 42mm will actually wear smaller than the 42mm headline might indicate. The message here is: don't be put off; try one on if you can, you may be surprised. The real sticking point has to be the price of these things. They are just as expensive as the 45mm versions. But whereas you can find the 45mm 5015 at some steep discounts (as I did, I got my 5015 at a smidge over 25% off), it's going to be a while before you will be able to find the 42mm 5010 at some more reasonable prices; perhaps a year or two. If you're up for one of these, be patient.

[@ID-Guy]

Darn, I hoped no one would notice! (ironic because I start the video about "having a discerning eye") Couldn't find a single 42mm release image that I could work with to get an impact for the thumbnail, so I resorted to shifting the script on the dial to make it look slightly closer to 42 (but that surround on the dial I couldn't paint over well) AND I just realised that you've been daily wearing your FF! Gotta congratulate you on picking one up - if I remember it was a recent purchase? Well said all round here Meson. Thank you as always for sharing brother! 🥃

[@meson183]

@@ID-Guy I bought my 5015 at the end of 2022. So I've had it for a year and four/five months now. It's beautiful, robust, reliable and super accurate. And understated at the same time; I love wearing it. Mine is the black dial titanium on the excellent titanium bracelet.

[@meson183]

@@ID-Guy Also, I suspect this watch is targeted not at those who want a cheaper alternative to the ubiquitous Submariner, but at those that want a high horology alternative. And for that this fits the bill perfectly. How many high horology diver watch alternatives are there? The G.O. SeaQ for sure. Do Cartier still do theirs? Moser had their Pioneer variant, but that was a limited edition. JLC Master Compressor or Polaris. AP have their Royal Oak Offshore, but they're really silly money.

[@sskumariyer]

@@meson183 AP RO Offshore is really silly money for a really silly watch (mainly for Schwarzenegger / Stallone wanna-be types; mid-age crisis watch.)

[@ulifluhme]

@@meson183dream of a watch, especially with that phenomenal bracelet.

[@michaelderoian4524]

I can’t stop laughing. For ten years all I’ve heard is “the FF in 42mm would be perfect”. Now me, I don’t care I’m a Big Guy (8.5” wrist) so the 44mm suites me. 47mm Panerai. Nothing under 42mm. Now they give you EXACTLY WHAT TOU ALL ASKED FOR and “they don’t change the dial”… “it’s dull”… you remind me of my kids, I give them exactly what ask for for dinner and all of a sudden they don’t like it!

[@musiclover4311]

Shows that you can never satisfy a watchnik.

[@wristopia4101]

Same here hahahahahahahaha. I bet they did not even buy a Swatch Scuba.

[@goyomojotech]

I get what your sayinf but Its sorta human nature to always want more haha

[@wristopia4101]

Most guys saying they would buy a watch if it were a bit different are talking nonsense lol They ain't buying a thing and I think its funny if watch companies listen to anything they say.

[@austinzizzi1142]

Exactly that’s all I hear from them too 😂 I was one of those people who was asking for this for ten years but I actually put my money where my mouth was and bought one

[@BennyLlama]

The 50 Fathoms is bland and uninteresting. For much less money, I could just get a GO SeaQ and get a watch with some personality. Im not saying the 50 Fathoms is bad, it just looks generic to my eyes

[@felixmarks9352]

Blancpain 50fathoms is the best and most quality diver watch ever made,most complication diver ever made..it have big military history (USA,Germany,Izrael,Spain,France army..) they save animals and clean the oceans…

[@MrWhite-yg6yk]

If they release a stainless steel black dial 40 mil case that’s 12 mm thick, 20 mm lug width and on a bracelet. I’d happily fork out 10k 😃

[@Fishbird]

Halleluja.....

[@pavelnikolaev2660]

So to conclude: you wanted 42 mm FF and after they made it for you, you know want 40mm. Just go and buy it :) or go and buy the Submariner (after n years of waiting) …

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

Nailed it. Blancpain really needs a change in management. Glasshutte and others offer far more in the price range.

[@ID-Guy]

Glashutte especially I think have picked up where BP has left off. Unique, interesting, gorgeous designs. Well said brother 🥃

[@felixmarks9352]

Blancpain is n1 diver… when you compare 50fathoms with anather dive watches it’s the same like you compared PP nautulis with hublot big Bang ..

[@phino4996]

..beause it has a stupidly high price point for what it is. What are they thinking..?

[@austinzizzi1142]

I want it but it’s so damn expensive

[@sskumariyer]

Let's be honest- the biggest obstacle is price! If these were priced close to the Rolex Submariner and marketed aggressively-- illustrating it's rich history, it wouldn't necessarily outdo Rolex sales but come in a respectable 2nd place finish. The Swatch version is sort of baffling- do they really expect the people buying the bioceramic version to pony up 2x the price of the Rolex Sub eventually? Non-sensical. The Submariner was/is/and will remain the gold standard of dive watches- it's #1 for very good reason. How can you expect people to pay nearly 2x the price of the gold-standard?

[@LoneWolf-qk9pl]

"The Submariner was/is/and will remain the gold standard of dive watches"....You must be joking.

[@sskumariyer]

@@LoneWolf-qk9pl ok, here you go: Rolex Submariner = 9/10, Tudor BB 58 = 8.8/10, Omega SM Pro 300 7.5/10, Blancpain FF = 7/10, GO SeaQ 6/10. Let me know if you need an explanation behind the ratings.

[@johnprosser5035]

I tried the Titanium 42mm on the tropical rubber strap and the full titanium bracelet in the Blancpain London Boutique and they wear amazing. It was as comfortable as my Explorer 40.....fits perfectly. But I think the price was £17k.....but will Definately have it on my grail list

[@georgehave]

A timeless design. Elegant in its simplicity.

[@erich964]

When you’re ready to buy a Porsche, you buy a 911. Same thing here. You pay for the original. It’s very expensive and exclusive but if you’re gonna do it, do it right as it was intended. 45 mil. It is obscenely expensive but desirable, and extremely exclusive and rare to be honest. You have to chutzpah to buy this instead of a multitude of other watches for the same money.

[@sergezerkin]

Actually the 14 mm I’d not a minus … this is a diver style watch .. just like there are no pilot watches online the styles … so for a diver it’s supposed to be big … just like iwc big pilot … you want a thin watch to get date just 36. but I give you - the green dial would go been phenomenal

[@Ossory88]

In a perfect alternate universe, Blancpain would still be an independent brand owned by Jean Claude Biver and would bring one disruptive yet hertiage-honoring banger year after year.

[@ID-Guy]

And in another universe, BP is the dominant watchmaker in this sector along with JLC (Rolex never managed to leave London and went bankrupt - now a forgotten name) 😉 ...alas, I wish JCB was still in charge of the brand, think he'd pump out some incredible pieces...

[@Ossory88]

​@@ID-Guy Word bro... Word!

[@musiclover4311]

the thickness has to do with the 3 barrel anatomy which gives this watch 5 days power reserve. Please do not compare apples and oranges by mentioning Tudor.

[@ThD040]

Sizewise it competes with a 42mm PO, a watch that is cheaper and imho designed better.

[@ID-Guy]

And I think of a watch like the SeaQ Panorama Date, there are just so many cooler options. Well said Theo 🥃

[@Albdentist]

… because it’s crazy overpriced at 16k A new Sub retails for 10,5k

[@clyde2801]

BECAUSE IT'S TWENTY THOUSAND PHREAKING DOLLARS!

[@ID-Guy]

But it has a SAILCLOTH strap, Rancher!! 😆

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Maybe 🤔 when they come out with a steel version it’ll only be $18k?

[@felixmarks9352]

This Rolex on your wrist in production cost like Tissot and you pay him 10times more,this is bigger problem than retail price of Blancpain …Did you see designe error on Daytona lugs -one side is fat anather is on diet..and you say something abauth Blancpain bracellet ..

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Hi! I’m talking constantly about the new releases. Since I purchased the Ocean of Storms Scuba-Swatch a couple of weeks ago. I would be willing to swap some of my core collection pieces to get one 42mm Fifty Fathoms in titanium. It’s less than two Subs brand new. But I’m not sure whether it’s possible to get a decent discount on the new models yet. Best wishes, Claus

[@christiantosumbung5791]

I think the 42 is 6 or 7 years too late. If they are going to come up with a 39 or 40, it too is a few years too late. That is why I see this and say meh, it is late to the party. I lusted the look of this almost a decade ago then saw it was 45mm which totally tuned me off.

[@ID-Guy]

Exactly right Christian, if this had arrived 5 years back? 7 years back? What an impact it would’ve made…

[@20thcenturyboy85]

Thank you for the video. A SUPER luxury watch. If they were serious about selling it, they should price a model one thousand dollars bellow the Rolex Submariner (esp. w that fabric strap). This would open their entire brand to enthusiasts.

[@ID-Guy]

Just imagine? I don't get the arrogance. Either you overcharge people and have a handful of people in the stadium OR cut the ticket prices and allow the stadium to fill. "The Submariner Killer is here" blah blah, Blancpain would be mega! Well said 🥃

[@miabeatz80]

If part of the argument that the Swatch colab lessened the value why would they make cheaper versions that lessen it further. I agree with some new dial variations or maybe even new models under the brand but the changes you recommend would only dilute the model. A good analogy would be using the speedmaster as example. Making an automatic version that's cheaper (speedy reduced) doesn't make the pro model sell more.

[@20thcenturyboy85]

Perhaps but it would be cool to have both a Rolex diver AND a BP 50 Fathoms. This would definitely open me up for other fine selections in their brand.

[@Man00ta]

Why would they? BP is already a Brand for enthusiasts who appreciate the craftmanship and the Supreme quality and attention to detail within their watches. A FF is at least 2 Level above an ordinary sub and i am a huge sub Fan and owner myself. BP is no mass production manufacturer either. Could the Price be lower - Sure. But NEVER below any Rolex dive Watch, sorry. 😅

[@Voltanaut]

To answer your title question, because they're boring, sorry.

[@bbrebozo6417]

Too little, too late, too expensive. Haute horlogerie is for the salon with a loop, not so much for the deep. Secondary market will be a better place to go get one of these.

[@Not_Mark_Twain]

Ugh. Still too big, too thick, too expensive, and with an ugly date window. But for Swatch, they’d be dead. Truthfully, Blancpain’s dress watches have more to offer than their divers.

[@marcusszewczyk4948]

1908 - 1913 black wasn't an option for the model t

[@ID-Guy]

And I call myself a "car guy" 😆 Thanks for this Marcus 🥃

[@joelopic]

Say what you will. The fact is that the FF is the true king of the divers throne. Always has been and always will be. Style. Elegance and quality. It's only challenger being the Glashutte original Sea Q. But there is only one king.

[@ericb8888]

The Fifty Fathoms is a watch that all enthusiasts love …. but few actually purchase. The X in the clip is a serious, serious piece of kit ;)

[@ID-Guy]

Should’ve captioned “for Eric” in the corner somewhere - knew you’d dig it 🔥

[@docfluty]

kind of like a lange 1 in that case

[@wristopia4101]

That makes little sense, do you mean watch enthusiasts that cannot afford it, love it? Or ones that can afford it (and love it) do not buy it? Why would they not buy it if they love it and can afford it? The only reason it gets mentioned most of the time is re. the Submariner/Deep- Sea.

[@Mr.Peperkamp]

Was waiting fpr a decade for it to happen... But prices are €10.000,- up from normal prices around €10.000,- in my opinion now and that's makes it not worth unless prices decrease dramatically...

[@ID-Guy]

10k for a Titanium 300m diver... it's eye-watering, right? I think we can expect these to come down by 25%ish sooner or later 🥃

[@jbyrne4531]

I think the problems the FF has, along with BP in general, is the same problem they had with the Swatch x Blancpain - they don’t ACTUALLY give people what they want. They think they are, but they seem to wiff every swing. Now, really what most people actually want is a Submariner or “new hat” Black Bay, but be that as it may - new hat syndrome is common at BP with the Fifty Fathoms and Aqua Lung, and Bathyscaphe too being sufferers of such a condition. Except it seems you hit it right on the head, saying if these things came out 5 or 6 years ago, and in a 40mm size that 85-90% of people agree is perfect territory for office-divers (whose worst fear is a vigorous handwashing or extended rain shower) then they would have been a smash hit. Great video mate! Cheers 🍻

[@TheRunningManZ]

In the metal I personally don’t think it works very well at 42mm. The crystal bezel is so big and the watch is so deep that it seems odd somehow. The watch is kinda like a polo mint where the hole in the middle is the dial. The dial looks too small, it doesn’t look right for the watch, it’s too small. I think it’s tough to compare Omega Seamasters or Rolex Subs to the Fifty Fathoms. It really compares with the likes of the RO Offshore, it’s on another level to a Seamaster 300 or a Tudor Pelagos, it’s properly haute horology. Price comparisons just don’t work here. Just like you can’t compare a Datejust or an Aqua Terra with a VC Overseas or similar. They are in different levels and it’s not about tech specs. That said the Fifty Fathoms movement is technically better than pretty much any other diver but it’s finished to a haute horology level aswell. Too many people overlook the Bathyscpathe, it’s got the same movement, the same level of finishing. But it’s a much better size than this new one. Most are put off by pictures, see it in the flesh. It’s amazing and can be had for next to no money in comparison with these and in finishes like ceramic/titanium etc.

[@ID-Guy]

Great points all round brother and especially when it comes to models like the Bathyscaphe (a watch design I still can’t really fathom - pun) BUT maybe this 42mm is the start of something awesome, they use it as a platform to expand their designs and all the rest. What blows my mind is a 10+ year old design (that was fantastic when it debuted and blew the Rolex’s etc out of the water) hasn’t really pushed the envelope much besides shrinking down by 3mm’s 😆

[@TheRunningManZ]

@@ID-Guy I have the Bucherer blue version which has the kinda pie pan like dial that the regular 45mm FF has. It really seems to sort out the negative space on the dial. The Bathy is the sweet spot for me personally in the range.

[@markgiles8527]

I'm still waiting for the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 3 style to be made in steel. Until I'm stick to my current daily. If Blancpain don't want to make the watches we want. Not an issue. Just means Blancpain isn't selling me any watches. I'm not the one in the business of selling watches.

[@ID-Guy]

What a gem of a watch that would be Mark. And they 100% hold all the cards to create the gorgeous designs (that they aren't playing) 🥃

[@TheRealAlPhil]

I love these watches, by far my favorite diver design. Main reason I'll never buy one is price, second reason is the thickness.

[@m1k3y88]

I still love BP FF but the price increase is a hard pill to swallow. I can buy a doxa with a microadjustment clasp for a fraction of the price when at the same time its to big of a challenge for BP to engineer one. With my 8inch wrist i will be tryiung to get old 45mm version i guess

[@ID-Guy]

Its unreal what sort of diver can be found for 1/4 of the price today (with even better specs - save the movement maybe) BUT keep hunting for a 45mm! They're out there and can be found for a bargain 😉

[@m1k3y88]

@@ID-Guy There isnt really a lot in the UK but thanks for the thumbs up!

[@ChameleonsFan]

Sometimes people have already lost interest when they finally get what they once wanted.

[@ianmarshall3633]

I agree. 42 mm diameter dive watches are perfect as long as you have a short lug to lug of 46 mm to 48 mm. But, it's all down to personal preference. That's what makes this addition of ours so fascinating 😂

[@MrAndy76101]

Beautiful pieces (agreed that Act 1), but the price proposition just doesn't sync for me.

[@kjakan79]

They talk about it like they would buy it. Then they remember the value retension that they where born with from rolex and forget about it.

[@ID-Guy]

That's also a very valid point. Most of us know that the prices of these will come down soon enough by 25%+ 🥃

[@Leftystrat]

Deal breaker is the damn sunburst dial, the price $30.5 k AUD for the bracelet( that you can’t see on the site properly),. and ah well my deepsea is going nowhere 😊

[@geralddorrian100]

If it were priced like an omega I’d buy one

[@ID-Guy]

Imagine? As usual, they'd never charge a reasonable price for these 🥃

[@wristopia4101]

Too Small, Too Expensive, Too Ugly? People say they want stuff they don't want

[@wristopia4101]

Come on ID Guy, people do not pursue a FF, Its all talk lol. There is nothing Blancpain could have done IMO

[@wesleylu7383]

Blancpain missed the timing. Had they released it 5 years ago this would make a huge impact. Instead, they decided to release it when the watch market was crashing down hard, brand new stainless steel Submariners are barely over retail now! Same reason why the IWC Ingenuir barely made a splash, they released the thing AFTER people have already gotten tired of the Gerald Genta hype.

[@extrememike]

No hype? ✅ maybe too many divers to choose from? ✅ Maybe too expensive. ✅ This is good. When no one remembers maybe I will buy one.

[@ID-Guy]

Excellent point Mike 😉 The secret to all the good stuff is misdirection 🥃

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Blancpain’s mistake was the Hodinkee limited editions not being in their standard catalog. I’ll like it better at a 50% off used price in a few years! Too little, too late, and too expensive for me 😎. Have a great weekend IDGuy.

[@ID-Guy]

That Hodinkee Bathyscaphe... I still wish that was around... Well said as usual Underachieving and thank you as always brother, same to you 😉🥃

[@ulifluhme]

With BP you can’t argue value. It’s pointless. The 42 will come later in steel and with other dial variants. And it will cost what they want it to cost. As you said, aspirational or dontgiveaF kind of money. Personally, I think it has it all: history and (artificial) rarity due to price. I’d still buy a 45. And maybe will one day.

[@willburrows8834]

It’s about value for money IMO. You’d have to be a massive fan of the brand and model to drop over £15,000 on a 14mm thick stainless dive watch on a sailcloth strap.

[@derekbrettell8121]

I'd want precious metal or a complication of the price goes over 10k. They are asking silly money for what it is. Give me a Sub or Seamaster any day of the week

[@ID-Guy]

@@derekbrettell8121 100% man 🥃

[@KeepingWatchUK]

Why? (Too) Expensive. Date at 4.30. Poor residuals. Rolex Submariner exists. Good weekend IDGuy 🥃

[@ID-Guy]

"...Rolex Submariner exists" 😆 Love that as the closing line. Have a superb weekend brother and thank you as always! 🥃

[@Shawn-o4z8y]

I’m you south afrikan bruh too

[@Deusmecumest]

Couldn't have put it better. An engineer's answer.

[@derekbrettell8121]

Agree with all these points! Brands such as Blancpain have delusions of grandeur. You'd need to have your head checked to spend that on this watch when you could buy a Submariner AND Seamaster for the same price.

[@wonderwatch2239]

If you are a creative, experimental, daring person, you don’t want what everyone and their grey cousin, praises and wears on their wrists ….🤣🤣

[@richardwarren2024]

As the owner of a 5015, even I won’t pick this one up. It’s simply too expensive for what I already have. I think many folks who want this will wait until it’s available on the preowned market in a year, for $12,000

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Exactly 👍

[@Leftystrat]

No micro on bracelet?

[@madman94]

Saw these in person.... and fell in LOVE!!! Must try on 💯

[@docfluty]

It's just price. not low enough for the masses and not exclusive enough for the elites.... There isn't really much hype about any watch in the $15k-$25k range.... anything lower you are in the rolex, cartier, and omega group... any thing over and people want AP, Patek, and VC..... i think it's in a tough area to get people excited about... but in the $15-30k range you can get other wonderful but less hyped pieces from the likes breguet, Moser, and Chopard LUC I really like this. Ive been looking for a non-submariner daily black dive watch. I think if I can get the typical 15-20% off I would consider selling two of my omegas to buy one on the bracelet.

[@drkesrf]

Other than the submariner, theres really no good reason yo buy a dive watch above $6k. Seamaster, pelagos, black bay, legend diver, seikos, etc. too many really good options to buy a blancpain or a glaschutte

[@angelosc1795]

I agree with you to a large extend. Too little is made out of a wonderful and unique diver watch, not just this time, but over many years. A big pity. The last FF that impressed me was the 500 Fathoms. After that a lot of insipid variations. I dont share this overblown discussion on watch diameters. A few mm more or less dont matter at the end of the day.

[@joesaave]

The Act 3 in stainless steel with solid case back please!

[@ID-Guy]

100%, it would be exceptional! 🥃

[@Nathan.W1696]

funny, I've been awaiting this new FF for awhile albeit I've never been very serious about pulling the trigger on this +10k watch. But really I'm about to pull the trigger on the first gen PO 45mm after trying it on and deeming it appropriate. No need to try on the 42, the 45 felt good

[@ID-Guy]

Earlier Omega's... man, Omega's in general (second hand) are just exceptional. Great call on an early PO Nathan! 🥃

[@Frank-qs3pe]

What's the Seiko Diver beside you ?

[@ID-Guy]

It's an SJE093 (I fitted to an Omega Mesh) Since the 62MAS used the Bathyscaphe as a template for their original design, I thought it would be subliminal 😉🥃

[@Frank-qs3pe]

@@ID-Guy I live in Florida, and I occasionally go diving and snorkeling I bring my Seiko divers with me. They have never let me down always rinse with freshwater.🍻

[@berserkkw]

The price in my opinion has killed this model.. i love it, i would pick this up, but its price is so steep that I'm having to rethink the whole thing.. maybe ill be happy with the ocean of storms model and call it a day..

[@nikolastojadinovic2534]

Too expensive for me but still my favorite dive watch, I agree with you that they are late for the party and need more and unique color options.

[@ProfessorPesca]

Before watching I’m going to tell you why I’m not hyped for it - that ludicrous price. Totally out of reach except in a few years when the usual catastrophic depreciation of Blancpains has done its work.

[@ID-Guy]

You nailed it Prof 🥃

[@ProfessorPesca]

@@ID-GuyI also really rate your point about originality of design - would it have killed them to put the solid lume arabics on these ones?

[@markhurley3242]

I love Blancpain watches and have had 2 Bathyscaphes (ceramic and stainless), both were insanely accurate but wore too big for my 7" wrist. I forever wished for a 40 to 42mm Fifty Fathoms as that is what I really wanted versus the Bathyscaphes. Blancpain kept teasing me with the limited editions in the perfect size but with eye watering unrealistic prices. I was so excited when I got the press release email about these watches until I saw the prices. Sorry, but $18,000 just isn't realistic for a titanium dive watch, I guess I will continue to live with my Seamaster 300m (if and until) Blancpain decides to actually give it's fans what they really want, a 42mm Fifty Fathoms in stainless for Rolex Submariner money.

[@justingalore123]

Love my ocean of storms. My most worn watch. I’d really prefer it in titanium to plastic - but it’s 44 times the price!

[@boatdetective]

I came very close to buying a used model...until I saw one and tried it on. The ergonomics of the piece are awful. The 14mm thickness sits more like 16-17 on your wrist. In contrast, my Seiko marinemaster with the monoblock case seems to settle deeper into your wrist. Next, the crystal has no AR coating (or at least it seems that way). The crystal seems to smudge and reflect at all but a head on view. I was surprised at how underwhelming the watch was in person.

[@ID-Guy]

I think one of the biggest issues is these FF's were quite pioneering (in the 2010's) Rolex transitioning over to ceramic bezels, dive watches didn't have clear casebacks... but that was 10+ years ago 😆 Boxed sapphire, thick cases and all the rest are old news. Well said Detective 🥃

[@MrLukeeld]

Great video so thanks. Sadly there is no pleasing the watch enthusiast collective😂 no matter what brands like Blancpain do with their product line up, people are never satisfied 🤷🏻

[@josevasquez1781]

I agree and after trying all the two versions in T23 and solid 18K I ordered the blue in Titanium 23 it's amazing imo, it should arrived in two weeks. The date disappears, smaller more compact case and that 1315 is beautifully finished. I own the new Sub Kermit, Sub ND. Glashutte SeaQ solid 18K 39mm and just got the JLC Polaris this fifty fathoms is better in every way imo.

[@miabeatz80]

This watch has 120hr power reserve and deep history while maintaining an original design. There isn't much in this category at this price and it shouldn't be compared to Tudor or Seamaster. To have the type of movement and make it any slimmer would only drive the price. I would say this piece is a stealth wealth diver. It can fly under the radar while mechanically out performing even more expensive rivals.

[@ttbaer69]

Owning the 5015 and no need for me to go smaller, this watch is just amazing. But if they came with the "seaweed green dial" you shared, I would think to go for a second one.

[@josevasquez1781]

Just tried on the both version I went with the 42mm blue T23 bests my new Sub Kermit, Sub no date, Glashutte SeaQ gold 39mm, JLC Polaris, etc. The sales rep had on the 45mm version with polished case and I can tell you Blancpain step up the finish and it's more compact and the dual has a better layout the the biggie fifty. I should received mine I two weeks. I recommend for individuals to wee them in person instead of YT comments.

[@d.kashani]

I admire and respect blancpain and their history (especially as a seiko fan) but these prices are nuts. I understand how they like to position themselves as this luxury diver but so many options at 16-18k. Even in their own line up they have the Bathyscaphe Quantieme Complet at 16k that’s a better value than this. Maybe they thought those swatch collabs created enough hype that people would aspire for one of these and took advantage of the pricing. I don’t know who’s buying them but i’ve never seen anyone with a blancpain except a bathyscaphe (rarely) but maybe the sizing might change that.

[@TriforceRich]

I actually like the fact that the design hasn’t changed because I love it; however, they downgraded the dial by taking away the step. To answer the topic question it’s the price. To be perfectly honest, the FF uses a haute horology movement and is finished to a standard to and above its retail price. That said, people don’t care because you can easily get a 45mm FF for under $10k. Only crazy fanatics and people with deep pockets are going to buy this release, even then BP will struggle because those people were the ones who bought the anniversary model. Would I buy this watch? Possibly but on the secondary market around $10k. I will say it’s unfair to compare it to the FXD, which I own. The FXD has some of the most mundane finishing with the lowest grade titanium. Not even in the same league as the FF but it’s still the best diver ever made imo from a functional point of view. Love your point about 42mm. As you know, I also use my watches actively and came to the same conclusion that 42mm is the perfect size for functional legibility. Any more and it’s just size for size sake and less you lose legibility.

[@ID-Guy]

Excellent points all round here Rich (and I remember you were infatuated with your Deepsea years back) really hope you’re keeping well brother and thank you for this! 🥃

[@AverageBros]

Well, the media may not be talking about them, but customers are absolutely snatching them up. I was planning to cover the release at a boutique in LA, but they completely pre-sold out.

[@ID-Guy]

It's great to hear this brother! This side of the pond I've heard (seen) nothing significant at all - at least for now 😉

[@AverageBros]

@@ID-Guy I was surprised myself, even the more niche strap and color combinations gone quickly. I'm certain they'll restock soon, if they haven't already but great to see them moving at release like that.

[@chrisLVgreen]

I would rather go with Glashutte SeaQ, for the price and bracelet options.

[@valjean3141]

At some point, I would like to see these up close. But I would want to see some of the choices that they used to offer at 45 mm (like the guilloche dial), before seriously considering this. And I, too, had the underwhelmed reaction of: “It’s an update after more than 10 years, and the only thing that changed is the case got smaller?” Just seems like there should have been something more to it.

[@ID-Guy]

Couldn't have said it better man, thank you 🥃

[@davem8836]

There aren't that many of us here in Canada, but having to pay in US dollars, euros, or GBP has been a deal breaker for me personally. Paying 20-25% more than anyone else for the same item has always been a hard pill to swallow. It's just too expensive for most of us.

[@waltersvandermerwe5310]

Trying living in Africa where we have all the minerals in the world but yet are struggling because of exchange rates.

[@waltersvandermerwe5310]

Great show. Love watching.

[@ID-Guy]

@@waltersvandermerwe5310 Thank you boet 🥃

[@ID-Guy]

Exchange rates are the killer, you're spot-on. Like what Walter has replied to you here (I'm also from Africa) and the rates are beyond ridiculous 🥃

[@waxy954]

Pukka video as always, I’d love a Fifty Fathoms, but at that price there are other pieces I’d rather own.

[@josevasquez1781]

To each their own, as a big fan of Blancpain I went out to the Blancpain Boutique and tried all three two in Titanium 23 blue and black dial and one in 18K solid gold they are all lovely the date which I never understood in previous times disappears the case proportion are more balanced and compact the movement we all know it's amazing with excellent finish. Long story short I ordered the blue on tropic style with pin buckle it should arrive in two weeks.

[@kpmcclellan]

Congratulations!

[@MikolaiStroinski]

You could have mentioned “the problematic price”

[@deltropico7]

The swatch collaborations are, from my pov, a case of The Emperor's Clothes. A plastic watch is a plastic watch... whatever. Hype is an illusion.

[@ID-Guy]

Hype and trends will always blind folks (for a while) until the dust settles and the good stuff is all that remains - the rest goes to the dump 😉

[@clarencebenjaminlim]

21.5 lug width? What were they thinking?

[@Thomas-vq5pb]

Tried it on the wrist and it’s miles better in 42mm, but as you said it comes too late.

[@macoyupadoodle]

Potential buyers have moved on or have purchased a replacement. With todays economy, this is also a big ask , but trust me , the potential buyers are there watching and waiting for the right moment.

[@Leftystrat]

30k aud , on titanium bracelet? Could be a long forgotten wait😮

[@macoyupadoodle]

@Leftystrat 🤣 yeah true ! The most "bang for buck" is the basic strap if you can say that 😉

[@m.e.p.r]

I think know one is talking about this release, because the whole “vintage diver” minor update release is now quite tired and boring IMO. I’m hoping brands move away from the modern 60’s and 70’s interpretation and into something more interesting and challenging at this point. I won’t be parting with any more of my cash until this happens. This watch is “nice” but unfortunately utterly forgettable in 2024.

[@ID-Guy]

Very well said, though I have a soft spot for "based on original, 1:1 reissues" - seeing a brand like Glashutte take a model like the SeaQ and spice it up with a big panorama date, alternative colours (blending old and new) makes for such a nice combination. Utterly forgettable couldn't have been said better 😉

[@benjzh]

45 or 42mm, this design is perfect… except for the date at 4:30. I think I‘d prefer no date at all. And Blancpain written on the side of the case is quite a special design choice.

[@Thomas-vq5pb]

But Act 3 of the FF 70th anniversary is a beautiful watch ….

[@ID-Guy]

Imagine the Act 3 in steel? Man, it would be incredible to see these older styles 🥃

[@Thomas-vq5pb]

@@ID-Guy there is something “less rounded” (?) in the case that gives it a modern touch. In steel, could bring Blancpain back in the game…

[@summerrr1]

I’m interested, but they are taking the mick with the strap pricing.

[@ID-Guy]

With so many of these higher end Swatch brands, it's the hardware that I love on the straps most, right? Buckles, clasps are just top notch... and the prices are eye-watering 🥃

[@evanhartwig2849]

Aside from the power reserve there’s nothing that really excels in this watch. Its direct competition is thinner, cheaper, more versatile, and has equal to or better bracelets/straps. This isn’t a cool vintage design and it doesn’t incorporate any other changes that fans have been asking for. Visually it just looks like they changed the dial. That, in combination with the Swatch releases which are fun, bright, and unique, makes this release look dull and ugly in comparison to

[@ID-Guy]

Summed it up well Evan, especially considering how far the competition has come since these arrived on the scene 10+ years ago (at a time where Rolex was just moving over to ceramic and dive watches didn't have clear casebacks for the most part - or haute movements) Nicely said brother 🥃

[@chriscon8463]

It seems like a really nice watch! Your video is actually the first I’ve heard about the 42mm!, though. I suspect their marketing is lacking. Also, I just jumped on their website & it wasn’t terribly easy to navigate…and when I did find a SS version on a bracelet, it was a limited edition at $17,500! I couldn’t even find their “proletariat” model…

[@ID-Guy]

I had a gut feeling that there were more than a few out here who've not even been notified about THE smaller sized, mainline Fifty Fathoms. Glad I brought it to your attention Chris 😉 But man... I didn't realise they haven't even listed them online (properly) Honestly, the more I think about it, doesn't seem like the brand really cared about this launch at all - a shame really 🥃

[@andrewpalmiere7022]

Step 1. Drop the size. (Check) Step 2. Competitively price it against the Submariner. (Crickets)

[@ID-Guy]

Way too many steps to follow I’m afraid 😉

[@hughming]

I don’t understand why watch companies release dive watch with bezel on marking 0-15 minutes. I prefer full minute marks around diving bezel.

[@ID-Guy]

Y'know, this was exactly going through my mind while editing this video. I really dislike that 15 minute marker setup. Either full hash marks or none around the bezel (maybe that says something about us that we prefer it all the way or none at all 😆) Well said Hugh 🥃

[@theenavybluemonster]

Price, 430 date, and more desirable limited editions (Hodinkee mil spec). They should have done this 42mm during Covid. That would have been a perfect time. I’ll just enjoy my Swatchpain Arctic.

[@ID-Guy]

Nailed it man, during 2020... it would've been the hottest thing since sliced bread! 🥃

[@sardendibs]

40mm is just fine as a dive watch and will look more harmonious on most wrists, IMO. 40mm, no 4.30 date, matte dial (no sunburst) and no white gold applied indicies and you’d have a winner. Basically a 40mm Nageurs de Combat.

[@ID-Guy]

I was sure to put the NdC as one of the firsts in this lineup (I dig it too for all you've mentioned) 😉🥃

[@robertm.9633]

Size alone is the only reason I don’t consider the brand.

[@danielmulero2816]

I must admit that this is my grail watch. Having a new 41 mm Submariner no date myself (which I love), I find the FF much more aesthetically pleasing. BUT, as you mentioned, the elevated price, compared to other excellent choices, makes in my opinion a poor value proposition. In addition, I would like to add that, after owning two Omegas, I dislike the watch service policy of the Swatch Group. Their recommended intervals for servicing a watch (Blancpain is not different) is around three years, due to its luxury... Well, Rolex recommends ten years for their new watches... Great video 👍

[@Wu.Tang.Financial]

Still rather large and thick, still a bit steep in price. I also preferred the anniversary release, but I guess they think keeping those special is worth not selling more watches?

[@ID-Guy]

I feel in my gut that it’s their “ace up the sleeve” - the limited edition models will always sell out in a few hours (and that’s what they’re banking on as the quick cash grab) 🥃

[@EdwardViaTomato]

The Fifty Fathoms is my grail but I'd probably go for a Bathyscaphe for a bit less money, because I like the sleeper aspect for a high horology watch like that. I also like the gold versions of any FF or Bathyscaphe, but especially the 70th Anni Act 3 in 9k (but I'd still opt for the 18k Bathyscaphe Moonphase, for the price, maybe). I _did_ buy a sapphire crystal IWC Aquatimer 2000 (IW356809) though, because of my love for the Blancpain (and IWC). It's great. Especially when the lume is beaming.

[@ID-Guy]

Its fascinating, right? I'm with you on the subtlety of chasing high horology pieces, must say, Glashutte has piqued my interest a lot. From their SeaQ's to dressier pieces, I love how differently they interpret the brief. Great shout on the Aquatimer! I've heard rumblings that IWC are going to be updating the range this year 😉

[@wescobts]

These are great watches, but as you said no one talks about them. In the mad rush for Rolex, and the many broken hearts for the people who could not get a Rolex, and were willing to spend Blancpain money, why didn't they get a Blancpain ?? Hype is a monster...

[@salvadorHombre]

It isn't just hype. Rolexes hold their value and in many instances appreciate. Now I don't recommend using watches as an investment. But if I were dropping $10k on a watch, I'd choose something that I know will not lose me any money should I get bored of it and choose to sell it.

[@facade87]

Love your channel man! The fifty fathoms will always be my holy grail. I live in Malaysia, and in South East Asia, Blancpain is simply too expensive. For context, a sales/marketing manager (mid level) at a m&c company would earn max of 15 000 malaysian dollars. A Blancpain (with inflation and weak currency) here costs around 60 000 malaysian dollars (rolex explorer 1 costs 30 000 malaysian dollar). Prob why this brand has been alienated by Asians which is a shame.

[@dingodave3966]

Dear Mr IDGuy, psst, did you hear, there is a new 42mm Blancpain Fifty Fathoms…😅 If I gotta be nit picky, the bezel is too thick also. It’s a little girthy as you said. I’m sure once on the wrist it would be easy to live with though. ☺️

[@eggsII]

Really appreciated your point about a lack of imagination when it comes to dial, hands, color… it seems that there are few brands that get away with tiny to no iterations in their watch design. It might be that Blanc Pain has simply lost the interest of collectors because its design does not have a modern feel. When I think of adventure and sport, I think more of Rolex, Tudor, heck, even the SeaQ has a sportier feel than the 50 Fathoms. Dare I say that the 50 Fathoms feels more steam punk than Jonny Quest aesthetically?

[@ID-Guy]

Very well said, the image of "sports divers" has moved away from the FF. And the SeaQ feels like a far more interesting / engaging successor, right? The Panorama Date? What a beautiful watch... slim, clear back, unique design. The current FF was a killer model (10+ years ago) 🥃

[@erikdunbar4451]

Too little too late is exactly how I feel. Too thick