A replica Fifty Fathoms 43mm is a watch that copies the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms dive watch with a 43mm case diameter. Blancpain released the Fifty Fathoms Automatique with a 43mm case. Replica makers produce versions with similar dimensions. The replica uses a stainless steel case, a rotating bezel, and an automatic movement. Prices for these replicas range from $200 to $800. Quality varies by factory. The best replicas use sapphire crystal and an automatic movement.
Specifications of the replica
Most replica Fifty Fathoms 43mm watches share these specs:
- Case diameter: 43mm
- Case thickness: 13.5mm to 14mm
- Lug width: 23mm
- Water resistance: 300m claimed, but not tested
- Bezel: unidirectional rotating, ceramic or aluminum insert
- Crystal: sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Movement: automatic, 21,600 to 28,800 vibrations per hour
- Power reserve: 40 to 120 hours
Movement options
Replica Fifty Fathoms 43mm watches use different movements. Common options include the Asian 2824 clone, the Asian 2836 clone, and the Japanese Miyota 9015. Higher-end replicas use a clone of the Blancpain 1315 movement. The 1315 clone has a 120-hour power reserve. That clone costs more. Lower-priced replicas use a 21-jewel movement with a 40-hour power reserve. The movement finish varies. Some have decorated rotors and bridges.
Materials and finishing
The case is 316L stainless steel. The bezel insert can be ceramic or aluminum. Ceramic resists scratches. Aluminum looks more like the original. The sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating. The dial has applied indices and hands with lume. The lume quality ranges from poor to excellent. The bracelet or strap is stainless steel or rubber. The steel bracelet uses solid links. The clasp has a safety lock. The case back is solid or has a display window. A display window shows the movement.
How it compares to the original
The original Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 43mm has a 1315 movement with a 120-hour power reserve. The case is 43mm stainless steel. Water resistance is 300m. The original has a sapphire bezel insert. The dial has a date window at 4:30. The replica often has the date window in the same place. Differences include the movement finish, the lume quality, and the crystal clarity. The original uses a sapphire crystal with double AR coating. Many replicas use single AR coating. The original bezel has a precise click. Replica bezels can be loose or misaligned. The original has a signed crown. Replicas may have a blank crown.
Price ranges and quality tiers
Replica Fifty Fathoms 43mm watches fall into three tiers. Low-tier replicas cost $200 to $300. They use a mineral crystal, a low-grade movement, and have poor lume. Mid-tier replicas cost $300 to $500. They use sapphire crystal, a decent movement, and better lume. High-tier replicas cost $500 to $800. They use a clone movement, a ceramic bezel, and a well-finished case. High-tier replicas are closest to the original in look and feel. Prices vary by seller. Some sellers offer a version with a Swiss movement. That version costs more.
What to check before buying
Check the case diameter. A 43mm case should measure 43mm across without the crown. Check the crystal. Sapphire is better than mineral. Check the movement. A 28,800 vph movement is smoother than a 21,600 vph movement. Check the bezel action. It should rotate with clear clicks and no play. Check the lume. It should glow evenly. Check the water resistance. Most replicas are not suitable for diving. Do not dive with a replica. Check the seller's return policy. Ask for actual photos of the watch. Avoid sellers who use stock photos only.