Blancpain

Since you mentioned our mutual friend Nico, it’s clear we all recognize his deep passion for vintage Fifty Fathoms. However, unlike him, I simply don’t have the knowledge, patience, or confidence to pursue the vintage route. That’s precisely why I appreciate this recent trend of brands releasing reissues or modern reinterpretations of their iconic vintage pieces. Wearing one allows me to capture a sense of history while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with modern construction and reliability—without the caution required for vintage ownership.

That said, I’m well aware that not everyone shares my enthusiasm. There’s a growing sentiment among collectors that brands are becoming creatively stagnant, simply dipping into their archives to reissue modern versions of past designs. Perhaps Blancpain’s management was aware of this perception but decided it was a risk worth taking—particularly since the Ocean Commitment is less about referencing a specific historical model and more about championing a cause.

Reflecting on when Audemars Piguet first introduced the Code 11:59, many of us were caught off guard. The initial response was mixed, and it took time for appreciation to build. Today, models like the Starwheel and the Chronograph have gained well-deserved recognition. I wonder if the Tech Gombessa will follow a similar trajectory—one that requires a slow, warming-up process before a broader collector base fully embraces it. If Blancpain continues to expand this line with varying sizes, configurations, and case materials, I wouldn’t be surprised if more of us eventually ‘jump on the boat’ and come along for the ride. There’s definitely potential here if they play their cards right.

I also appreciate your willingness to share positive thoughts on this release. This is exactly why I love this forum. Bill and his team of moderators have fostered a space where we can respectfully exchange views and experiences, regardless of where we are on our collecting journeys. It’s refreshing to have these conversations without the noise of negativity.

Incidentally, these are the very types of discussions I regularly have when visiting boutiques and authorized dealers. One common theme I often point out is that no brand will ever make all of us happy—and that’s okay. There will always be small details that irk some of us, and yet, we keep coming back for more. That’s just part of the journey, isn’t it?

Thanks again, my friend, for sparking this thoughtful discussion. Wishing you a fantastic week ahead!🥂

Best Regards,

Mark

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