When people mention diver’s watches, the Rolex Submariner often comes to mind. While it’s undeniable that the Submariner is the world’s best-selling diver’s watch, other brands like Panerai, Breitling, and Cartier offer remarkable alternatives. Among these, the Blancpain Bathyscaphe 5000-0130 from the iconic Fifty Fathoms series deserves special attention. As many watch enthusiasts know from my previous Noob factory review, Fifty Fathoms replicas have generated significant buzz in horology forums.
Today’s discussion focuses on a high-quality Blancpain Bathyscaphe replica from another reputable factory (though Noob may soon produce their version). This timepiece embodies all essential diving watch features while distinguishing itself through distinctive design elements. The 316L stainless steel case features black PVD plating with a satin finish, complemented by a unidirectional rotating bezel with white markers. The crown showcases precise gear patterns and bears the Blancpain logo.
The black dial maintains classic diver’s watch simplicity with excellent readability: a red-tipped central seconds hand, Swiss luminescent markers, and a discreet date window at 4:30. The generous 43mm case diameter enhances presence on the wrist – a characteristic shared by many professional diving watches.
Both front and back sapphire crystals reveal the movement: a reliable clone of the Blancpain 1735 caliber based on a Chinese automatic mechanism, featuring accurate engravings and a blackened rotor. The watch comes with a practical nylon strap (leather-lined with Blancpain branding) and is available in black or blue color variants.
