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Thread: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Mil-Spec 2017

  1. #51
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    Wonderful watch...love it...


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  2. #52
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Quick question, has anyone had any problems with the bezel insert? I did read one watch review and someone posted at the bottom of the page that theirs had broken twice. The reviews do say that it is extremely hard wearing with it being sapphire, but is there a brittle element if it is banged etc.

    Any thoughts or experiences.
    I have a fifty fathoms and I've never had any problems. I've unintentionally given the sapphire a pretty hard whack against a tap once and there's not a mark to be seen on it so I would definitely say it's hard wearing


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  3. #53
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by yonsson View Post
    There is always a risk with sapphire, I have had no issues.
    Quote Originally Posted by David r View Post
    I have a fifty fathoms and I've never had any problems. I've unintentionally given the sapphire a pretty hard whack against a tap once and there's not a mark to be seen on it so I would definitely say it's hard wearing
    Thanks for both responses. I am on the verge, watch this space...

  4. #54
    Master ghosty's Avatar
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    I have one as well, it's not an issue with the bezel insert, more the spring inside, they're prone to snapping. I did mine as I was desending on a dive with gloves on. It has to go to southampton to be swapped, but it's quick and painless!

  5. #55
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Thanks for both responses. I am on the verge, watch this space...
    If you are on the verge I would urge you to go for it. In the flesh they are truly beautiful watches and it's my only watch that's universally liked by everyone who sees it whether they're into watches or not.

    Of my collection it's the only one I wouldn't sell.


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  6. #56
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by David r View Post
    If you are on the verge I would urge you to go for it. In the flesh they are truly beautiful watches and it's my only watch that's universally liked by everyone who sees it whether they're into watches or not.

    Of my collection it's the only one I wouldn't sell.
    Thanks David, I agreed a straight trade with Watchfinder on Saturday for a FF with the Sailcloth type strap and deployant. My watch is in the post to them now, so providing they have no reason to reject it, I should be the proud owner of a FF by the weekend.

    I had slimmed down my collection to two decent watches with one now in the post and a buyer lined up for the other, I fully intend to run for a while with just one watch and see how it goes.

    I did have a Seiko Fifty Five Fathoms for a short while and that just made me want the real thing.

  7. #57
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Thanks David, I agreed a straight trade with Watchfinder on Saturday for a FF with the Sailcloth type strap and deployant. My watch is in the post to them now, so providing they have no reason to reject it, I should be the proud owner of a FF by the weekend.

    I had slimmed down my collection to two decent watches with one now in the post and a buyer lined up for the other, I fully intend to run for a while with just one watch and see how it goes.

    I did have a Seiko Fifty Five Fathoms for a short while and that just made me want the real thing.
    The regular BP FF is fantastic, I wear mine 99 out of 100 days. The only issue is the clickspring mentioned above.

  8. #58
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    Quote Originally Posted by David r View Post

    Of my collection it's the only one I wouldn't sell.


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    +1. I did sell mine but couldn't find anything anywhere near as good so bought another! It's now staying.

    No problems with either in terms of the sapphire. It absorbs all kinds of knocks without a blemish.

  9. #59
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Thanks David, I agreed a straight trade with Watchfinder on Saturday for a FF with the Sailcloth type strap and deployant. My watch is in the post to them now, so providing they have no reason to reject it, I should be the proud owner of a FF by the weekend.

    I had slimmed down my collection to two decent watches with one now in the post and a buyer lined up for the other, I fully intend to run for a while with just one watch and see how it goes.

    I did have a Seiko Fifty Five Fathoms for a short while and that just made me want the real thing.
    Look forward to the pictures


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  10. #60
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by yonsson View Post
    The regular BP FF is fantastic, I wear mine 99 out of 100 days. The only issue is the clickspring mentioned above.
    Any more info on this for a newcomer to the brand, are we talking about a spring inside the bezel and do they just snap of their own accord or when turning the bezel etc.

    Sorry if this sounds like a stupid question, just trying to understand what the issue is and if there is any advice on avoiding it happening.

  11. #61
    Master Neilw3030's Avatar
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    Having had a brief look at the FF, it is vey nice indeed. Is this a watch that needs to be bought used to avoid taking a bath, or is it a long term keeper to avoid getting wet.
    I can see that vintage ones are very strong money indeed, what does the future hold for recent examples i wonder.
    A good alternative to Rolex ????

  12. #62
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Thanks David, I agreed a straight trade with Watchfinder on Saturday for a FF with the Sailcloth type strap and deployant. My watch is in the post to them now, so providing they have no reason to reject it, I should be the proud owner of a FF by the weekend.

    I had slimmed down my collection to two decent watches with one now in the post and a buyer lined up for the other, I fully intend to run for a while with just one watch and see how it goes.

    I did have a Seiko Fifty Five Fathoms for a short while and that just made me want the real thing.
    If it helps, I was chatting with Burnsey not long ago and we both agreed that the FF is the perfect "only" watch

  13. #63
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    Quote Originally Posted by Neilw3030 View Post
    Having had a brief look at the FF, it is vey nice indeed. Is this a watch that needs to be bought used to avoid taking a bath, or is it a long term keeper to avoid getting wet.
    I can see that vintage ones are very strong money indeed, what does the future hold for recent examples i wonder.
    A good alternative to Rolex ????
    I spent a chunk of the weekend reading up on the FF, a few links may be of interest with some detail and some superb images and a video. There are also some older threads on here from a few years back that are worth a read.

    http://timeandtidewatches.com/blancp...watch-journey/

    http://www.ablogtowatch.com/blancpai...atch-review/2/

    http://www.ablogtowatch.com/blancpai...-watch-review/

    Difficult to play one brand off against another, but most people who come into contact with the FF seem to fall in love with them.
    Last edited by Wallasey Runner; 8th May 2017 at 20:42.

  14. #64
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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    If it helps, I was chatting with Burnsey not long ago and we both agreed that the FF is the perfect "only" watch
    Thanks Tony, Steve sent me a PM earlier, nice to hear from him again. Totally agree with you both. What I want is a watch that makes buying a second watch seem pointless.

  15. #65
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    Did you swap the snoopy for it ?

    If so, wise choice IMO. Enjoy it when it arrives.

  16. #66
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    I know it's gratuitous porn, but these are the three I've owned - the last I still do. They're truly beautiful watches.






  17. #67
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by -Ally- View Post
    Did you swap the snoopy for it ?

    If so, wise choice IMO. Enjoy it when it arrives.
    Yes, too good a deal to turn down

  18. #68
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    Yep lovely watches. The case contouring is wonderful. A lot of people are initially turned off by the 45mm case size but in reality they wear a fair bit smaller than this. RRP is £10600 but can be had new for around £7k out of the Far East. I hope you aren't doing a straight swap with your Snoopy as IMHO the Snoopy is worth a fair bit more.

    On SC I'd expect a second hand model, 4 years old in decent nick to go for around £5.5k


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  19. #69
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by ryanb741 View Post
    Yep lovely watches. The case contouring is wonderful. A lot of people are initially turned off by the 45mm case size but in reality they wear a fair bit smaller than this. RRP is £10600 but can be had new for around £7k out of the Far East. I hope you aren't doing a straight swap with your Snoopy as IMHO the Snoopy is worth a fair bit more.

    On SC I'd expect a second hand model, 4 years old in decent nick to go for around £5.5k
    The Snoopy pricing is also subjective of course, I listed one on SC at £8.5k and got no reaction, I even responded to someone who placed a WTB for one and they didn't want it, which seemed odd to me, but there you go. You do see some dealers asking £11k, but a lot of those remain on places like Chrono24 for a long time. Watchfinder have had one on e-bay for £11k for ages now and it doesn't seem to move. In fact talking to Watchfinder they regard Snoopy as a tricky watch to sell, often taking months to find a buyer for each one and they said that if I had been looking to sell for cash they wouldn't be interested as they already have a few in stock, but they were willing to discuss a trade deal.

    I didn't pay anything like £11k, so not taking a huge hit on it. I did consider putting this one on SC this week, but it just seemed like a waste of time, just like the guy who listed his Deep Blue and now that seems to be on its way to WF.

    I haven't got access to the Far East markets like you have and would be reluctant to trust such a value to the postal systems. Even paying £7k you would need to add 20% VAT onto that taking it to £8.4k, which is only about £800 or £900 cheaper than the U.K. grey dealers. In the U.K. I checked out all the usual markets and I certainly didn't see anything close to £5.5k for a second hand model, £8k+ is nearer the mark.
    Last edited by Wallasey Runner; 9th May 2017 at 09:36.

  20. #70
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Any more info on this for a newcomer to the brand, are we talking about a spring inside the bezel and do they just snap of their own accord or when turning the bezel etc.

    Sorry if this sounds like a stupid question, just trying to understand what the issue is and if there is any advice on avoiding it happening.
    The spring itself is too thin for the bezel mechanism I suspect. I wouldn't worry too much about it, if it goes it goes! I don't think there's anything you can really do about it, or prevent.

    Also I got a quote for the strap changing kit with rubber strap included - it's over £1k now! Get yourself 2 precision screwdriver sets to change straps with, far less fiddly.
    Last edited by ghosty; 9th May 2017 at 15:03.

  21. #71
    We have discussed the bezel spring issue before. It is a relatively minor problem affecting earlier FFs, now seemingly resolved and in the later ones.

    http://www.watchprosite.com/page-wf....53/pi-5094738/

  22. #72
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    We have discussed the bezel spring issue before. It is a relatively minor problem affecting earlier FFs, now seemingly resolved and in the later ones.

    http://www.watchprosite.com/page-wf....53/pi-5094738/
    How early Raj, is there a cut off date?

  23. #73
    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    How early Raj, is there a cut off date?
    I am sure it was before 2012 but not sure how long before.
    Two of mine are from earlier batches and haven't had any problems.
    It isn't as if this was a huge problem. Definitely a few peoples got affected but you know how it is- problems always get highlighted. So kind of difficult to guage the actual magnitude of the problem.
    If I was you, as long as the bezel is operating fine now,I wouldn't give it a second thought.
    Other BPFF owners might want to chime in with their views/experiences.

  24. #74
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    I spent a chunk of the weekend reading up on the FF, a few links may be of interest with some detail and some superb images and a video. There are also some older threads on here from a few years back that are worth a read.

    http://timeandtidewatches.com/blancp...watch-journey/

    http://www.ablogtowatch.com/blancpai...atch-review/2/

    http://www.ablogtowatch.com/blancpai...-watch-review/

    Difficult to play one brand off against another, but most people who come into contact with the FF seem to fall in love with them.
    http://forum.tz-uk.com/showthread.ph...-on-the-wrist)

  25. #75
    Master yonsson's Avatar
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    Regarding Rolex Vs BP: I have owned a 116600, and imho, the BP FF easily outshines it.

  26. #76
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    I am sure it was before 2012 but not sure how long before.
    Two of mine are from earlier batches and haven't had any problems.
    It isn't as if this was a huge problem. Definitely a few peoples got affected but you know how it is- problems always get highlighted. So kind of difficult to guage the actual magnitude of the problem.
    If I was you, as long as the bezel is operating fine now,I wouldn't give it a second thought.
    Other BPFF owners might want to chime in with their views/experiences.
    Mine is from 2012 and got the bezel issue 2017. Now sorted under service and it was the thinnest clickspring I've ever seen on any watch. :D

  27. #77
    Craftsman JoePattinson's Avatar
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    Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Mil-Spec 2017

    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    I know it's gratuitous porn, but these are the three I've owned - the last I still do. They're truly beautiful watches.





    Thanks to you Tony I still have the Dark Knight. Actually it was one of the first "serious" watches I added to my collection.

    I have added a few since but for me the FF always puts a smile on my face when I put it on and I do really love it.

    I get lots of comments on it from non WIS who seem to like it but at the same time it kind of flies under the radar too as it isn't too flashy and not commonly known.

    In summary, I love it!




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    Last edited by JoePattinson; 9th May 2017 at 15:15.

  28. #78
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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    I know it's gratuitous porn, but these are the three I've owned - the last I still do. They're truly beautiful watches.





    Fantastic watches, all three.
    Always wanted a FF but never got a chance to persue te dream as other watches seems to get in the way :)
    Do you know the service costs of Blancpains movements and also intervals?
    Pricy like AP or more sensible like Rolex?

    BR

  29. #79
    Somehow am not convinced about the Dark Knight. Not a fan of blacked out watches in general and this one is no different. Haven't seen one in person, my impression based solely on pics.

  30. #80
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    Somehow am not convinced about the Dark Knight. Not a fan of blacked out watches in general and this one is no different. Haven't seen one in person, my impression based solely on pics.
    I'm not sure pictures do the dark knight justice. It is a stunner in the flesh and easily my favourite of the range. The aqualung in the brushed steel being my second favourite.
    I am on my second dark knight having foolishly sold the first then realising I had made a big mistake!

    They wear really well despite their 45mm size. I would rather an FF on my wrist than any modern Rolex yet they can be picked up for Rolex money.

  31. #81
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    Somehow am not convinced about the Dark Knight. Not a fan of blacked out watches in general and this one is no different. Haven't seen one in person, my impression based solely on pics.
    Trust me, Raj - it's a stunner in the metal. I'm sorry I sold mine.

  32. #82
    Since we have already wandered off the original topic of the new Mil Spec, I will take this opportunity to settle some old scores with LTF by posting a pic of my 50th anniversary FF:-)

    image hosting gifcertificity.com

  33. #83
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    Since we have already wandered off the original topic of the new Mil Spec, I will take this opportunity to settle some old scores with LTF by posting a pic of my 50th anniversary FF:-)

    image hosting gifcertificity.com
    I hate you.

  34. #84
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    Quote Originally Posted by chri11e View Post
    Fantastic watches, all three.
    Always wanted a FF but never got a chance to persue te dream as other watches seems to get in the way :)
    Do you know the service costs of Blancpains movements and also intervals?
    Pricy like AP or more sensible like Rolex?

    BR
    I just recently serviced mine through Swatch Group/BP. £690 and two months. It was 5 years old and I didn't think it needed a service but BP did.

  35. #85
    This is the most beautiful dive watch of the last 20-30 years.

    I live in hope that BP will re-launch this model at some point.

    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    Since we have already wandered off the original topic of the new Mil Spec, I will take this opportunity to settle some old scores with LTF by posting a pic of my 50th anniversary FF:-)

    image hosting gifcertificity.com

  36. #86
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    I think the Fifty Fathoms is my favourite dive watch.


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  37. #87
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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    If it helps, I was chatting with Burnsey not long ago and we both agreed that the FF is the perfect "only" watch
    That was probably just before he sold it to me Tony :)
    Agree though it is a fantastic watch!

  38. #88
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by mtagrant View Post
    That was probably just before he sold it to me Tony :)
    Agree though it is a fantastic watch!
    I know he did, but then it wasn't his only watch ;)

  39. #89
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    Quote Originally Posted by learningtofly View Post
    If it helps, I was chatting with Burnsey not long ago and we both agreed that the FF is the perfect "only" watch
    Probably even more versitile and perfect in 40mm. :)

  40. #90
    Grand Master learningtofly's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by yonsson View Post
    Probably even more versitile and perfect in 40mm. :)
    Now there's no need for that...

  41. #91
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Getting excited now, phone call this afternoon to confirm that my watch had successfully gone through their various checking and testing processes and the deal was on and it will be despatched tomorrow for a Friday delivery

  42. #92
    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Getting excited now, phone call this afternoon to confirm that my watch had successfully gone through their various checking and testing processes and the deal was on and it will be despatched tomorrow for a Friday delivery
    Awesome👍

  43. #93
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    Getting excited now, phone call this afternoon to confirm that my watch had successfully gone through their various checking and testing processes and the deal was on and it will be despatched tomorrow for a Friday delivery
    Holy moly, that's early. I hope mine won't come before June 3rd or it's gonna get tricky for me.

  44. #94
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by yonsson View Post
    Holy moly, that's early. I hope mine won't come before June 3rd or it's gonna get tricky for me.
    No, not the new limited edition, a standard FF 5015-1130-52.

  45. #95
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wallasey Runner View Post
    No, not the new limited edition, a standard FF 5015-1130-52.
    Phew, close one. You scared the Jesus out of me.

  46. #96
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    Quote Originally Posted by yonsson View Post
    Phew, close one. You scared the Jesus out of me.
    Don'y worry, I'd have bailed you out

  47. #97
    Master yonsson's Avatar
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    Can't wait to get mine, damn that's sexy!

  48. #98
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    That looks stunning in the flesh so to speak (rather than a glossy promo photo). You can certainly see the difference in size and the dial looks very different with the plots as opposed to the applied markers.

    Very nice indeed. I bet Tony can't wait for yours to arrive

  49. #99
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    Quote Originally Posted by RAJEN View Post
    Since we have already wandered off the original topic of the new Mil Spec, I will take this opportunity to settle some old scores with LTF by posting a pic of my 50th anniversary FF:-)

    image hosting gifcertificity.com
    That is sooo nice. Absolutely the perfect dive watch. Better check my bank account. !!!

  50. #100
    Grand Master Wallasey Runner's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Dejay View Post
    That is sooo nice. Absolutely the perfect dive watch. Better check my bank account. !!!
    You'll be very lucky to find one of those for sale.

    Mine hasn't been off the wrist since it arrived two weeks ago - even sleeping in it.


    Last edited by Wallasey Runner; 25th May 2017 at 20:26.

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