Description
Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe (Ref. 5000-0130-NABA): modern elegance and high-tech underwater
Blancpain, the world's oldest watch brand with a history dating back to 1735, is synonymous with haute horlogerie. One of its most iconic and historically significant collections is the Fifty Fathoms, which in 1953 defined the shape of the modern diver's watch. Within this legendary line, the Bathyscaphe model represents a more modern, versatile interpretation, and the reference 5000-0130-NABA with its black ceramic case and blue accents is a shining example of this.
The legacy of Fifty Fathoms and evolution in Bathyscaphe
The original Fifty Fathoms were developed at the request of French combat divers and became the archetype of the diving watch thanks to features such as a unidirectional rotating lunette, excellent legibility and high water resistance. The Bathyscaphe model was first introduced in the late 1950s as a slightly smaller and more civilian alternative. In 2013, Blancpain revived the Bathyscaphe name in a modern form that honours the original principles but brings contemporary design and the latest materials and technology.
Specifics Reference 5000-0130-NABA: Ceramics and blue tones
This particular reference is defined by several key elements that distinguish it:
- The case: Made of top quality black ceramics with a satin-brushed finish. The ceramic is extremely hard, scratch-resistant and lightweight. The case diameter is 43.6 mm, which is a modern size, and its profile is slightly thinner than the classic Fifty Fathoms models.
- Lunette: The unidirectional rotatable diving lunette also has a ceramic insert, but in a rich blue shade. The markings and numerals on the lunette are created by technology Liquidmetal™which is an amorphous metal alloy that guarantees perfect fusion with ceramics, high durability and shine. At the 12 o'clock position there is a luminescent point.
- Dial: The dial bears the same beautiful blue shade The design is clean and functional - the applied dot and rectangular indexes and the characteristic rectangular Bathyscaphe hands are coated with Super-LumiNova® luminescent coating for optimum legibility. The date window is subtly positioned between 4 and 5 o'clock.
- The strap: The NABA suffix in the reference usually indicates that the watch is supplied on a durable blue sailcloth strap (sail-canvas), which underlines their nautical and diving character. The strap is finished with a thorn buckle.
Heart of Le Brassus: Calibre 1315
Inside this watch beats a high-end Blancpain Caliber 1315 manufacture movement, visible through the sapphire dial. This automatic calibre is renowned for its exceptional characteristics:
- Extraordinary running reserve: Thanks to the three main springs, the machine achieves an impressive running reserve of up to 120 hours (5 days).
- Silicon hairpin inertia: It provides better resistance to magnetism and temperature changes, which contributes to higher accuracy and stability of operation.
- Robustness and reliability: The machine is designed for use in sports watches and can withstand harsh conditions.
- Top quality workmanship: As is customary with Blancpain, the movement is meticulously decorated (e.g. Geneva stripes - Côtes de Genève, bevelled edges - anglage) and the winding rotor is often made of 18k gold (usually with a dark NAC finish on this variant).
Diving DNA and Versatility
Despite its elegance and modern materials, the Bathyscaphe 5000-0130-NABA remains a full-featured diving tool. Its water resistance of 30 bar (approx. 300 metres), unidirectional lunette, excellent readability underwater and on dry land and robust construction make it a reliable partner for water activities. The combination of durable ceramic and a comfortable strap also makes it a great watch for everyday wear.
Market position (as of 4 April 2025)
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe 5000-0130-NABA represents a current (or very recent) model in the brand's range. It belongs to the luxury sports/diving watch segment, where it competes with the technical maturity, quality of workmanship, use of advanced materials and prestige of the Blancpain brand. It is the choice for discerning customers looking for a combination of history, innovation and style.
Who is the watch for?
This model appeals:
- Customers looking for a high-end luxury watch with a modern design.
- Dive watch enthusiasts who appreciate the history of the Fifty Fathoms line.
- Lovers of advanced materials (ceramics, Liquidmetal™).
- Those who prefer manufactory machines with a long power reserve.
- Individuals looking for an all-round watch that can stand up to sport and society.
Conclusion
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe reference 5000-0130-NABA is a masterpiece of modern watchmaking. It combines the rich heritage of one of the first diver's watches with the latest technology and materials. The combination of durable black ceramic, captivating blue accents and the exceptional Caliber 1315 manufacture movement with a five-day power reserve makes it not only a functional diving instrument, but also a highly elegant and technologically advanced accessory for every occasion. It is a real gem for watch connoisseurs.
