The Fifty Fathoms "Barakuda" was originally issued to the German Navy—known as the Bundesmarine until its post-reunification renaming to Deutsche Marine in 1995—this special variant of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms was delivered via the German aquatic equipment supplier Barakuda. While intended for military use, the watch later made its way into civilian retail channels. Though exact production numbers remain unconfirmed, it's widely believed that only 150 examples were ever produced.

Distinctive for its two-tone hour markers, the "Barakuda" stands out thanks to the striking red accents at the base of each index—adding an unexpected burst of color to an otherwise purposefully subdued design. This unique aesthetic, coupled with its military heritage, has made the Barakuda one of the most sought-after Fifty Fathoms references among collectors.

SPECS

Stock # BLCPFFBK
Brand Blancpain
Style Fifty-Fathoms "Barakuda"
Model N/A
Serial 207XXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black W/ Red Accents
Millimeters 41
Strap 2pc Rubber Strap
CASE & BRACELET

The impressively well-preserved case retains crisp factory edges and finishing throughout, with honest signs of use and no notable evidence of being previously polished present. The original acrylic bezel is also in excellent condition, showing some general wear expected for the material and age of the watch. The lume in the bezel features a darker patina on the right side, coordinating more closely with the lume in the hands, while the lume on the left side of the bezel matches the dial patina almost perfectly, creating a very cohesive aesthetic for the watch overall. The unsigned screw-down crown is original to the watch. The case back features some tool mark scratches and retains its original factory finishing and engravings in deep and crisp condition. The watch comes supplied on a new 2pc rubber tropic strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original and beautiful matte black dial featuring the characteristic red "Barakuda" accents on the outer portion of each marker is in virtually flawless vintage condition, showing no damage or notable elements of age. The zinc sulfide tritium lume has achieved a creamy patina throughout and shows no notable degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands have aged to a dark grey color, under UV light inspection the minute hand features a pin-dot of missing lume and remains stable, while the second and hour hands exhibit no degradation.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time, though the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.

Dimensions: 41mm

Box, Papers, etc.: Watch Only

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