PHOTO COURTESY OF SWATCH
Prepare to dive into new territories with Swatch and Blancpain, as the Swiss watchmakers chart a new course. They launch the Blancpain x Swatch Ocean of Storms timepiece, a stunning addition to the Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms collection. Their inspiration is the Oceanus Procellarum, the vast mare (Latin for ‘sea’) on the moon.
Ocean of Storms emerges in a sleek black Bioceramic case that not only encapsulates a wonder of cosmic desire. This deep, ink-like hue resonates with the ongoing celebration of Blancpain’s iconic Fifty Fathoms, the diving pioneer that altered the landscape of watchmaking over 70 years ago. It features a NATO strap woven from recycled fishing nets, speaking volumes about Blancpain and Swatch’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The watch also features a mesmerising black sun-brushed dial, its date window sitting discreetly between 4 and 5 o’clock. Conversely, luminous hour markers and hands (coated in Grade A Super-LumiNova) stand out in the dark with exceptional clarity. The unidirectional rotating black Bioceramic bezel ensures precision under pressure, while scratch-resistant glass shields the mechanisms within.
Good looks aside, the timepiece houses Swatch’s SISTEM51 movement, the first and only fully automated mechanical movement. This powerhouse boasts impressive anti-magnetic properties thanks to its Nivachron hairspring, while delivering a remarkable 90-hour power reserve. Which is quite the feat considering how it’s composed of a mere 51 parts, including a single central screw.
Mark your calendars, as the Blancpain x Swatch Ocean of Storms has sailed into Swatch stores worldwide. In Singapore, it retails at Marina Bay Sands for SGD570. While not a limited-edition exclusive, there will be a cap of one watch per person, per store, per day.
