There is something overlooked many times when it comes to sport watches. It seems that even the most diehard collectors talk only about the outside of the watch--the case, the bezel, the strap, the dial etc. And it seems to be getting worse in these days when materials are sometimes seen as an end unto themselves.
But do you notice how quiet some of these sport watch guys get when it comes to talking about the technical features and finishing of the movement? I must say that I am a great fan of the 7750 as a useful, brilliant even, piece of engineering. Edmund Capt created one of the single most popular, reliable, and, here comes that word again, useful movements in watch making history. But let's face it, the 7750 is meant for INEXPENSIVE watches. It is not a luxury movement. It was designed to be inexpensive. It has no place in a $20K time piece. So no matter how fancy the case is, how elaborate the dial, how many materials have been brought together for the watch, a 7750 based $20K watch is of no interest to me. None at all.
The Blancpain is different. Yes, it is an expensive sport watch. But the substance to justify that price is there. And the best place to start is the movement. Manufacture exclusive caliber. Free sprung balance with gold regulation screws. Three mainspring barrels, carefully calibrated to deliver even power over the full power reserve. 5 day + power reserve. Extra large jewels. Of course I love the sapphire bezel (and particularly its robustness) and all the details of case, dial and strap. But being a gear head, it is the movement that pops into my mind every time I strap on the watch.
Jeff