With a dazzling array of new luxury yachts, deep water and the drapeau tricolore fluttering in the breeze, what better place to launch a new version of that staple of France’s elite naval frogmen, the Blancpain divers' watch?

Strictly speaking, the legendary chronometer used by the French navy is a ‘Fifty Fathoms’ but the company has made an ultra-high-performance version — limited to just 50 pieces — called the ‘500 Fathoms Cannes 2009’. Blancpain has been producing deep-sea watches since 1953 and having launched the current version of the Fifty Fathoms in 2007 at the Cannes International Boat Show, is maintaining its connection with the event by introducing the new model, a watch water-resistant to 1000 metres.

The 500 Fathoms Cannes 2009 measures 48mm in diameter and includes an automatic decompression valve placed inside the brushed titanium case that will safeguard the movement at great depths. Visibility being vital even under the clear blue waters of the Med, the face has over-large Arab numerals that, together with the hands and bezel markings, are coated with high-luminescence material. The back is clear and allows the owner to admire the Calibre 1315 movement with its propeller-shaped winding weight.

The 500 Fathoms Cannes 2009 model is equipped with a black, rubber-lined sail canvas strap. Included in the waterproof presentation box is an alternative all-rubber strap (with fixing tool).

For further information, visit www.blancpain.com.

Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: Blancpain