Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation

By: Alexander Linz

Blancpain has long been known for its pioneering work in dive watches, and now, for the first time, the Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune is available in a full ceramic case and bracelet. This is a major step forward for the collection, as the watchmaker integrates cutting-edge materials with a classic full calendar complication.

Aside from the bracelet, the only non-ceramic component is the titanium folding clasp. However, Blancpain also offers the watch with NATO and sail-canvas straps, allowing for more versatility in wear.

Not Just a New Case, But a Timeless Movement

While the case material is new, the movement inside is a familiar and trusted friend. The Blancpain Caliber 6654.P powers the watch, offering a complete calendar with a moon phase complication. This is not a perpetual or annual calendar, meaning the wearer must adjust the date manually at the end of months with fewer than 31 days. However, it still provides an elegant and functional layout, displaying the day, month, date, and moon phase prominently on the dial.

Key Technical Specification

Case Material: Black matte ceramic
Case Diameter: 43.6mm
Thickness: 14.1mm
Lug-to-lug distance: 49mm
Bracelet Width: Tapers from 23mm to 19-20mm
Movement: Blancpain Caliber 6654.P (Automatic)
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 semi-oscillations per hour)
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Number of Components: 321
Water Resistance: 300 meters (30 bar)
Bezel: Unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel with liquid metal markers

Functionality & Calendar Adjustments

The Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet features four pushers integrated into the case flanks for adjusting the calendar functions:

2 o’clock: Adjusts the month
4 o’clock: Adjusts the moon phase
8 o’clock: Adjusts the date
10 o’clock: Adjusts the day

Blancpain has designed the movement with a security feature that prevents damage when setting the calendar at any time, even during the transition from one date to another.

The second hand with a half-moon tip also doubles as the date indicator, sweeping across the dial and adding a dynamic element to the display.

A Stunning Dial with Exceptional Details

One of the most captivating aspects of the watch is its sunburst gradient gray dial. The transition from a lighter center to a darker outer edge enhances legibility and adds a sense of depth to the watch face.

The dial also features:

Applied hour markers coated with Super-LumiNova for visibility in low light
Moon phase display at 6 o’clock
Day and month indicators at 12 o’clock

Superior Wearability & Comfort

The new full ceramic bracelet significantly enhances the look and feel of the watch. Unlike traditional stainless steel, ceramic is:

25% lighter, making the watch unexpectedly comfortable for its size
Highly scratch-resistant, ensuring long-term durability
Matte finished, providing a sleek, modern, and stealthy appearance

However, it’s important to note that while ceramic is incredibly resistant to scratches, it can still break if subjected to significant impact (e.g., dropping onto a hard surface). That being said, Blancpain has formulated this ceramic to be shock-resistant, reducing the likelihood of damage.

The bracelet does not feature micro-adjustments, but the titanium clasp and adjustable links allow for a customized fit. Additional NATO and sail-canvas strap options provide alternative wearing styles for different occasions.

A Watch That Needs to Be Seen in Person

Due to its unique materials and colour shifts under different lighting, we highly recommend experiencing this watch in person. The gray gradient dial reacts beautifully to natural and artificial light, revealing subtle tones that enhance its sophisticated appearance.

Pricing & Availability

Blancpain offers the watch in three configurations:

Full ceramic bracelet – €28,115 (including VAT)
NATO strap with pin buckle – €19,900 (including VAT)
Sail-canvas strap with pin buckle – €19,900 (including VAT)

For those who prefer a sportier look, the NATO or sail-canvas options provide an alternative to the ceramic bracelet, while also reducing the overall price.

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet Phases de Lune is a remarkable timepiece that blends heritage with modern innovation. The full ceramic case and bracelet introduce a fresh aesthetic while maintaining the iconic design elements that have defined the Bathyscaphe collection.

If you’re considering this watch, we encourage you to visit a Blancpain boutique or authorized retailer to see how it feels on your wrist. Its lightweight construction, unique dial texture, and luxurious materials make it a compelling choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.