This is a rare and fascinating Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, crafted for the German Bundeswehr frogmen in the 1970s. These watches were not available for public sale but were exclusively issued! You'll notice that this watch departs from the typical Blancpain Fifty Fathoms appearance due to its unique bezel insert. Since the Bund divers used rebreathers and didn't require the graduated dive bezels seen on Rolex Subs, the insert is plain and numeral-free.

It's uncommon to find one of these watches in such good and original condition, particularly with the bakelite bezel intact. This one has a crack at the tritium triangle at 12, a testament to its use as intended. The bakelite beneath the triangle is almost nonexistent, as this is a common stress point.

The 41mm case is strong and features fixed strap bars, with a winding crown positioned at five o’clock. The case back displays the Bund engraving: 6645-12-171-41xx. The original hands contain tritium lume, showing a bit of “military life,” and they match well with the tritium hour markers, indicated by the 3H on the dial.

We especially love the vibrant orange minute hand! It’s shown here on a single pass strap. The automatic movement has been thoroughly serviced by our watchmaker.

Finding pieces like this in such condition is a rarity. This is indeed a special watch—please get in touch to experience this tool watch vibe on your wrist!

Issued watches like this are true gems, and we’re thrilled about this find. Let’s chat and make a deal!

Specifications:

- Blancpain Fifty Fathoms
- Issued to German forces (Bundeswehr) in the 1970s
- Serial 12XX
- Military case back engravings: 6645-12-171-41xx
- Steel 41mm case
- Black dial with 3H marking
- Original blank bakelite bezel insert
- Original funky hands with orange minute hand
- Comes on the pictured Bulang and Sons single pass strap
- Fully serviced by our watchmaker
- One-year mechanical warranty
- Includes a handmade leather watch pouch
- Free worldwide FedEx Priority shipping

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 3H Bundeswehr

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 3H Bundeswehr

Before/after