There is what we say, and what we do. In an era of influencer marketing where appearance dominates being, and having becomes more important than doing, the difference is significant. Because the Blancpain Ocean Commitment, though not the most well-known environmental program, is a case study. The brand launched it more than 20 years ago. It has financed over 40 underwater expeditions and helped to establish around twenty protected areas, covering a surface area of 4.7 million km².
Marc Hayek, who has championed this program since the early 2000s, continues his efforts. This is occasionally reflected in new Fifty Fathoms models. This iconic dive watch, designed by Blancpain in 1953, is regularly updated with versions whose sales proceeds contribute to the BOC (Blancpain Ocean Commitment) fund. The Tech BOC IV is the latest example.
Tech me to the sea
The "Tech" line refers to the Fifty Fathoms models designed for professional use. Therefore, the watch is slightly larger. While the standard models typically range from 38 to 42mm, the Tech BOC IV measures 45mm. It will only be produced in 100 pieces.
This line benefits from Blancpain's latest innovations in dive watches. We got a glimpse of this in 2023 when the brand celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Fifty Fathoms. For the occasion, Blancpain unveiled different "chapters," each with a specific feature. The "Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 2 Tech Gombessa" stands out as the closest to today's new model.
A family resemblance
What are the family ties? First, the diameter. As mentioned, the newly revealed Fifty Fathoms Tech - Ocean Commitment IV has a 45mm diameter, which is quite close to the 47mm of the Act 2. Then, the inward-tilted ceramic unidirectional bezel, typical of the "Tech" line. The 10 o'clock crown is also notable: it is the helium valve that allows the watch to expel the gas that enters during saturation diving.
On the dial side, designed to absorb up to 97% of light (and thus enhance the readability of the luminous hands), there is a tonal harmony between the second hand and the "Tech" inscription, here in blue. Finally, the Tech BOC IV borrows from its larger sibling its double-strap rubber bracelet, titanium case, and skeletonized oscillating weight, stamped with the BOC logo in its center.
A proven movement
The Tech BOC IV is powered by the Blancpain Caliber 1315. It is a "veteran" of the Fifty Fathoms collections, found in several dozen references. Unveiled in 2007, it was ahead of its time (silicon escapement, 5-day power reserve). As a result, it is incredibly reliable and, despite nearly 20 years of service, remains one of the most efficient automatic calibers in the watch industry.
Now, let’s mention the differences between the Tech BOC IV and its predecessor: the new model features a date function, which the commemorative version lacked, and its unidirectional bezel can now count a maximum of one hour of diving, compared to three hours previously.
For each sale, €1,000 will be donated to the BOC fund. In total, €100,000 will go toward the operation of a marine research center in the Philippines, which was inaugurated last month.
Olivier Müller
