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Magnus (Moderator)
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Monday 29 October 2007 10:26:20 pm
FORUM NEWS: A beginner's guide to collecting vintage Blancpain 50 Fathoms!
Dear All:
We are frequently asked to give opinions regarding the purchase of vintage Blancpain 50 Fathoms or Aqualungs. In most cases, it is difficult to voice a conclusive opinon, due to lack of information or knowledge, thus we often restrain from giving advice.
In a recent conversation with René Bruyeron, noted vintage Blancpain 50 Fathoms expert and owner of the fabulous web-resource http://www.watchdeco.com, the idea crystalised to put together a short Beginner's Guide to collecting vintage Blancpain 50 Fathoms.
The idea was not to offer a comprehensive documentation of existing models, rare versions and iminent fakes, but more to offer the less experienced prospect a guiding hand on how to avoid the most obvious fakes around.
1. only buy models with case backs in 2 parts, with a screwing ring, not solid one piece ones
2. avoid Polish Army models
3. avoid Aqualungs models
4. avoid AS 2063 movement models, stay with AS 1361, 1700, 1900 mvts, ETA 2873. AS 2063 movements are still easy
to find on the used market. To the contrary AS 1700, 1900, 1361 movements, with original Blancpain signed rotor are extemely rare, even as spare parts
5. avoid watches sporting rotors with engravings in two colours and/or fonts
6. avoid mint cheap ones
7. avoid S/N 301417, hundreds of mint ones were recently made with that S/N
8. look for real bakelite on bezel insert
With those hints, it might be more difficult to 'find' a vintage Blancpain 50 Fathoms on the market, and you may pass on a real one, but on the other hand the chance of being taken for a ride is greatly reduced. The image below shows a genuine example with the AS 1361 movement, note the uniform engravings!
René generously offered to put together a more comprehensive guide, for which I am most thankful. It will be published in reasonable time, all fingers crossed (this is a hobby, right?).
So far, remember, the more popular and sought after a watch is, the more likely it is to be faked. I can only stress that, as the saying igoes, one should 'buy the seller, not the watch'. Try to communicate as much as possible before committing to a purchase, have the watch inspected or agree on a money-back policy before it is too late.
A vintage 50 Fathoms is a fascinating watch, and it brings much joy in collecting.
I hope you found this article of value for yourselves. Take care and all the best,
Magnus
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