Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 5015 12B40 052A Review
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms first debuted in 2017, and its launch coincided with the 10th anniversary of the 5015 family. It's unique because it has 45 millimeters in titanium wear, more straightforward than previous 5015 models, without compromising the basic design's inherent appeal.
It's an exceptional piece that utilizes superior satin finishing around its titanium case embezzlement. This feature gives the watch a more discreet presence on the wrist. Also, converting the typical black to blue and steel to titanium look enhances its subtle tastefulness, making it alluring to a wider range of watch fanatics.
Specifications
The 12B40-052A is a comfortable fit for a wide range of wrist circumference because of its 45-millimeter length. It measures only 15.6 millimeters from lug to lug and is neither thick nor thin for such a powerful timepiece. Its size is quite reasonable and will fit comfortably underneath most jacket cuffs. The spacing between the lugs is a hypermodern 23-millimeter lug, so it has a nice yet comfortable placement on the wrist. More so, the width of the strap and the lug's width match the size of the case. As one would expect, the choice of titanium over steel means this watch is also lightweight. But the choice of metal does more than contribute to its lightweight nature; it's also hypoallergenic, making it a stellar option for people that have issues with latex and steel. Although its original strap does contain natural latex-based rubber on the underside, a quick swap is possible for people who are sensitive to even trace amounts of latex. Another thing to note about its original strap is that it is principally composed of navy-blue sailcloth that goes perfectly with the bezel dial. Plus, it is lightly bolstered down at the center and has a folded edge with a uniform monotone stitch.
Going to the edge of this Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, you'll notice that its pin buckle is quite different from the standard 5015, which typically features polished steel with a small index. The 12B40-052A stands out from the rest because of its lovely cursive inscription of the brand name “Fifty Fathoms.” It’s deeply pressed into the buckle, and will not fade. Also, it has a satin finish with a tiny flared end that further spells out its uniqueness. When you move to examine its dial, you’ll observe that Blancpain executed the satin finishing unusually in a vertical fashion, as opposed to the traditional longitudinal etches you see on the long flank of most watches. The choice to go with shorter vertical brushing is a deliberate move by the makers to give this timepiece a more distinctive look. Watch enthusiasts will also appreciate that the lug profile remains the same as the previous models, which is undoubtedly a tribute to the rest of the collection. Another attribute noteworthy of the 5015 collection is the use of hex key screws to hold the bars in place and retain the strap. It acts as insurance against accidental popping of the spring bar while maintaining an elegant look, common for most large and expensive sports watches.
Another of its upscale features is shallow but sharp knurling that makes it easy to grip and adjust. Its detent system is suitable; it's audible without being too loud and sharp without being too aggressive. It's refined without feeling overly mechanical, which can come off as distasteful. This feature serves to emphasize that since the Fifty Fathoms came out as the first modern rotating bezel watch, they are still doing it right. So it’s truly a luxury standard-bearer with a significant historical value.
This Blancpain piece is capped with a cambered sapphire that protects a fully loomed bezel base such that this watch goes elegantly with the metallic sunburst finishing of the hour track. Its numerals and indices stand out boldly in white gold, with their white gold broad sword style. It has added features like stop-seconds and a quick set date should you wish to rapidly change the date and time. Like the one that controls the detent system, the crown is also deeply knurled and easy to operate.
Everything about this timepiece, from its dial to its three-day power reserve and water-resistant casing that easily beats at 28,000 vibrations per hour, makes it a staple piece for special occasions and events. It’s as good as it gets in terms of both engineering and finish. It’s a timepiece that does it all.
