Blancpain has unveiled two new Fifty Fathoms dive watches in a 38mm case—marking the first time the iconic line has been offered in this smaller size. Though marketed as women’s models, the release signals a broader move toward more accessible sizing that collectors and enthusiasts have long requested.
Previously, the Fifty Fathoms range was mostly available in larger 42mm and 45mm cases. A notable exception came in 2020 with a limited-edition 40mm MIL-SPEC collaboration with Hodinkee, which quickly sold out. Many watch fans have since hoped for a more compact, standard version of the diver.
The new 38mm models are not simply scaled-down versions of existing designs. According to Blancpain, they were re-engineered to maintain visual balance and key design elements, such as the engraved “Blancpain” branding on the case side.
One version features a black mother-of-pearl dial housed in an 18-karat red gold case. The second comes with a pink mother-of-pearl dial, paired with a brushed titanium case and matching pink bezel. Both watches are true to the Fifty Fathoms’ diving heritage, offering 300 meters of water resistance, domed sapphire bezels, and luminescent Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9. The hands and indexes are also filled with lume for legibility in low light, and both feature a red-tipped seconds hand.
Powering both models is the automatic Blancpain caliber 1153, which beats at 3 Hz and delivers an impressive 100-hour power reserve. Each watch is 12mm thick and designed for comfort and durability.
The pink titanium model starts at CHF 15,500 and comes with a choice of a pink-and-white fabric strap or a titanium bracelet. The red gold model starts at $31,600 and offers options including sail-canvas, tropic rubber, or NATO-style straps with either a pin buckle or folding clasp.
Though the brand has positioned these watches as women’s models, the 38mm case and refined design will likely appeal to a wide range of buyers, regardless of gender. This release could pave the way for future unisex additions to the Fifty Fathoms line. Blancpain itself has hinted as much, stating, “The new 38mm case size opens the door to future additions within the Fifty Fathoms family.”