Blancpain

...I'd prefer that they left it to a pro : )

It's only around 5k - 7k used depending on the variant and the finishing is very very nice. Was shocked by how nice the anglage was on the basic time only one I handled..

As long as it earns its rent within the holding company structure and will get continued support it’s simply a better buying opportunity as a collector. I’m spending a 1/2 day in Geneva with Blancpain (who are not at Watches and Wonders). I’ll be looking at their high complications in the Villeret line. With the current state of the market there are some brands that you buy pre-owned (such as Blancpain and Breguet) and the hyped ones that you buy new - if you are lucky enough to get them. Usually the pre-owned high complications are in excellent condition as they are not daily wears. With Blancpain and Breguet it’s entirely possible to pick one up (as I did recently) at 1/3 of its current MRSP - model still in production and the watch was recently serviced. It’s so hard not be influenced by the “look at me” crowd - but buy what you like - and can afford!

Congratulations and good luck on your visit!

I don’t see much risk to the brand within the Swatch group. It’s got a fabulous history with over 200 years of family involvement and continuous operation. The dive watches are a staple of the industry!

I started this thread a while ago below. I think a part of their problem is their marketing. What got me interested in their watches in the first place way back was their Leman line, as the look really attracted me. The Villeret line to me looks a little girly with the thin double gardroon bezels and the delicate looking dials, but the Leman had bolder double stepped bezels, bold (not delicate) hands, a more beefy crown and pushers, and yet it wasn’t an all out sports watch like the 50 Fathoms, and at the same time not a full out dress watch like the Villeret. It was the perfect balance, and then they got rid of it. Mistake in my opinion. I love mine and would get another in a non chrono like an Aqualung if they were to bring it back. 

Is it that hard to get them on a bracelet? I was in a Tokyo boutique in Ginza and was able to try on both a steel and titanium 5015 with the bracelet. Are these significantly less common?

At the NYC Boutique, they are shown on a strap. I think they actually look better on a strap, but in general, I think the other problem is that the 50 Fathoms (non limited editions) are simply too big at 45mm. They need to size down a little and not make it only available in the right size for limited runs.

I think this is most people’s biggest problem with the 5015. I just can’t stand the bathyscaphe though and don’t mind the 45mm.

45mm is generally too big for anyone having under a 7” wrist.