MGB Watches are thrilled to share exciting insights into the upcoming Blancpain x Swatch collaboration set to launch on September 9th, 2023. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive overview of what we know about this highly anticipated partnership, while also adding some well-founded speculations to the mix.
As the team gets ready to stand and queue (yes for the second time in a week) for the much anticipated Blancpain Fifty Fathoms collaboration, It adds a point of difference to the Swatc Stores, and allows us to steer away from the OMEGA x Swatch 'MoonSwatch' craze that recently took the watch world by storm. We all know the frenzy it is still causes on the streets, the frustration it stirred among devout OMEGA collectors, and the difficulty of walking into a Swatch Boutique and getting the one you actually wanted! However, as time has passed, the MoonSwatch hype has subsided, making this an opportune moment to introduce some more bio-ceramic excellence into the mix.
So, what can we expect from a Blancpain x Swatch collaboration?
According to Swatch Group CEO Nick Hayek Jr., the roots of this partnership date back to the early stages of the MoonSwatch project. In an article from late 2022 he hinted at the existence of a 'Swatchified' version of both the Blancpain Fifty-Fathoms and the Omega Seamaster 300, along with a tantalising "mock-up of a Swatch collaboration with a 'very high-end' external brand." London Stores specially are showcasing their Blancpain x Swatch displays in a diver's esk case. Whilst store teams are clearly under some form on NDA, they have confirmed that the watches are inside the display case. They explained there will be a global release on the 9th, the tag t the vase will be cut and products unveiled
Blancpain Fifty Fathoms
It appears that all signs are pointing towards a Blancpain x Swatch Fifty Fathoms release as a pivotal part of this collaboration. Swatch has dropped subtle hints on social media and in newspapers over the weekend, showcasing images of the watch adorned with its distinctive crown.
Furthermore, it is widely speculated that the thematic inspiration for these timepieces will be drawn from the world's five major oceans, as indicated by graphics:
- Arctic Ocean
- Pacific Ocean
- Atlantic Ocean
- Indian Ocean
- Antarctic Ocean
In keeping with Blancpain's legacy, it is highly likely that the Sistem 51 automatic movement will be featured in the Blancpain x Swatch collaboration. Notably, Blancpain has never ventured into quartz watch production. The Swatch automatic movement boasts a central screw and an impressive 90-hour power reserve. Consequently, we anticipate that these watches will be positioned at a higher price point compared to the OMEGA x Swatch MoonSwatch, potentially hovering around the £500 mark.
In terms of features, expect to see a screw-down crown, a rotating bezel adorned with a 60-minute scale, and a bio-ceramic case that pays homage to the MoonSwatch design. These elements align with the classic attributes of dive watches. While it's reasonable to anticipate some modifications to the strap, a NATO strap seems to be the favoured candidate.
It's essential to reiterate that these insights are based on informed predictions, as Swatch Group has not officially shared any details regarding the release. We eagerly await the official unveiling of the Blancpain x Swatch collaboration on September 9th, 2023, when all will be revealed. Stay tuned for the exciting developments in the world of horology!
