Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar
To kick off the year, Blancpain launched the 2024 edition of its iconic Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar wristwatch, marking the start of its second 12-year cycle since its debut in 2012. Limited to 50 timepieces, each of this limited edition features a green enamel dial and a red gold case, with a special red gold winding rotor intricately engraved with a dragon, symbolizing the lunar year of 2024. The timepiece artfully combines elements of both the Chinese and Gregorian calendars, showcasing the 12-year Zodiac cycle, the 60-year cycle of elements and Yin/Yang, and traditional Chinese hours and leap months. With a complex movement comprising 464 components, the watch boasts a seven-day power reserve and Blancpain’s patented under-lug correctors for ease of setting, and retails for $77,900 USD
Ladybird Valentine's Day 2024
Continuing the momentum, Blancpain's Ladybird Valentine's Day 2024 edition was a romantic tribute, continuing their over two-decade tradition of releasing a new watch each year for Valentine’s Day. This special limited edition watch is crafted with a 34.9mm red gold case and is adorned with a bezel set with sparkling diamonds. The mother-of-pearl dial is decorated with intricate heart motifs, and is complemented by slender red gold hands. A luxurious red alligator leather strap completes the look, making it the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day for years to come.
The New Villeret Quantième Perpétuel
In February 2024, Blancpain unveiled its new Villeret Quantième Perpétuel, featuring an intense green dial inspired by the forests of Le Brassus, framed by an elegant red gold case. This timepiece, a testament to Blancpain's watchmaking expertise, includes a perpetual calendar that requires no adjustment until 2100 and a distinctive moon phase display at 6 o'clock, embodying the brand's legacy in mechanical watchmaking. Powered by the 5954 self-winding movement, the watch offers a 72-hour power reserve with intricate finishing visible through the sapphire crystal case back. The design features Blancpain’s patented under-lug correctors for user-friendly adjustments, maintaining a smooth, uncluttered case side. The sunburst green dial, reflecting the Vallée de Joux’s fir forests, and a brown alligator leather strap enhance the watch’s natural elegance, the star of Blancpain’s legacy. This release marks a tribute to the leap year, celebrating Swiss horological artistry and Blancpain’s enduring heritage.
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms
Most recently, Blancpain expanded its renowned Fifty Fathoms family with the introduction of new 42 mm Fifty Fathoms Automatique models. Initially presented in a steel case during the Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Act 1 limited edition, this new iteration is now available in both red gold and grade 23 titanium. The Fifty Fathoms, the first true diver’s watch born in 1953, has consistently set the standard for dive watches with its robust construction, water resistance, and clear legibility. Revived in 2003 by Marc A. Hayek, the Fifty Fathoms has continued to evolve, with the new models featuring the high-performance Calibre 1315 movement, offering a five-day power reserve and exceptional precision. The latest editions come with a choice of blue or black dials and various strap options, including sail-canvas, NATO, and Tropic textured rubber, as well as a titanium bracelet. These new models retain the classic elements that have defined the Fifty Fathoms while introducing modern materials and design enhancements, reaffirming Blancpain’s commitment to both watchmaking excellence and ocean conservation.
We’re halfway through the year, and Blancpain’s 2024 releases have continued to showcase the brand’s remarkable ability to blend tradition with innovation, offering timepieces that honor their rich heritage while embracing contemporary advancements. Whether you are drawn to the intricate complications of the Villeret series or the heritage of the Fifty Fathoms, Blancpain’s new releases promise to captivate and inspire watch enthusiasts around the world.
