Blancpain Fifty Fathoms No Rad Limited Edition 5008B-1130-B52A
About This Watch
The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms No Rad is a tribute to the rare 1960s "No Radiations" model, distinguished by a moisture indicator on the dial that changes color if water enters the case. This complication, while simple in concept, is highly practical for divers and directly references the original No Rad watches that bore the "No Radiations" text to indicate they used non-radioactive luminous material — a response to the health concerns surrounding radium used in earlier dive watches. The modern interpretation maintains the moisture indicator at 6 o'clock as a small disc that changes from blue to pink if humidity enters the case, providing early warning of a seal failure. The same caliber 1315 with 120-hour power reserve and silicon hairspring provides the mechanical foundation. The aesthetic is deliberately vintage-inspired with a slightly different typeface and marker style compared to the standard Automatique, appealing to collectors who appreciate historical references. Market prices have exceeded retail, reflecting the desirability of limited-production Fifty Fathoms variants among collectors who value the brand's deep dive watch heritage.
In-Depth Review
# Blancpain Fifty Fathoms No Rad Limited Edition Editorial
The modern dive watch faces a peculiar challenge: honoring deep historical roots while addressing contemporary concerns. Blancpain's Fifty Fathoms No Rad Limited Edition 5008B-1130-B52A confronts this directly by reintroducing a vintage specification that professional divers once demanded. The "No Rad" designation references the absence of radioactive luminous materials—a feature that defined early Fifty Fathoms models but disappeared as tritium became standard. This 45mm stainless steel tool watch resurrects that philosophy while augmenting it with modern performance: a Caliber 1315 automatic delivering an impressive 120-hour power reserve, unidirectional ceramic bezel with liquid-metal markers, and most notably, a moisture indicator on the dial that actually serves a purpose for working divers. The 300-meter water resistance and robust NATO canvas strap complete a specification sheet that reads like serious diving equipment rather than aspirational desktop jewelry.
Blancpain targets a specific clientele with this piece: experienced divers and watch collectors who prioritize authenticity over marketing narratives. This is not an entry-level luxury watch. At nearly $19,000 on the secondary market—above its $16,900 MSRP—it appeals to those with existing diving experience and deep appreciation for horological heritage. The moisture indicator particularly serves working professionals and technical divers rather than casual vacationers.
In the high-end dive watch segment, the 5008B-1130-B52A competes directly against offerings like the Rolex Sea-Dweller and Omega Seamaster Deep Black. While the Rolex commands premium pricing through brand mythology and the Omega offers integrated helium escape valves, Blanc
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Caliber 1315 |
| Power Reserve | 120 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 35 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 45.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 15.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Bezel | Unidirectional rotating, black ceramic with liquid-metal markers |
| Dial Color | Black with moisture indicator |
| Lug Width | 23mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 52.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 300m / 984ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Black NATO-style sail canvas strap |
| Clasp | Stainless steel pin buckle |
| Weight | 140g |
| Complications |