Description: A pioneer’s instrument in the world of underwater diving.  This vintage Blancpain Aqualung reflects the spirit of Jacques Cousteau and the early age of underwater exploration. Touted as the first modern watch with a unidirectional rotating bezel, the Fifty-Fathoms has its heritage amongst professional divers as well as military issued equipment.

“The name “Aqua-Lung” found on the dial derives from the first open-circuit self-contained underwater breathing apparatus invented in the winter of 1942 by Jacques Cousteau and Émile Gagnan, who later founded the company La Spirotechnique to manufacture and distribute their SCUBA equipment. The name AquaLung was chosen as it would be more appealing for American audiences, rather than the original French name of “scaphandre autonome”. To complicate these issues of nomenclature, the American sister company of La Spirotechnique was called U.S. Divers, which later changed their name to Aqua Lung and then to Aqua Lung America. As the Fifty Fathoms was a tool watch for those customers of Aqua Lung, Blancpain partnered with the SCUBA equipment company, and the first known cosigned wristwatch appeared on the cover of a US Divers catalogue in 1958.”

(Courtesy of Phillips)

This specific example is an early model with 1000 ft dive depth and a tropical dial. Bezel, case, and dial are in amazing shape.

Dial: Tropical dial

Case: Stainless steel case with strong edges and natural wear from time.

Bezel: Rotating bakelite bezel

Bracelet: Leather strap