Blancpain is the oldest watchmaking company, dating back to 1735. The brand has weathered centuries and has a rich history of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation. Credited with what we know as the modern dive watch, their now iconic Fifty-Fathoms just celebrated its 70th anniversary, having been released the same year as the Rolex Submariner in 1953. Although Blancpain might not be the first name to come to mind for many, the brand is seeing more deserved attention as collectors unpack their fantastic contribution to the world of horology. 

The Blancpain Masterpiece Collection represents a line of exceptionally intricate, limited-edition timepieces that emerged during the brand’s revival in the 1990s and early 2000s. In the wake of the Quartz Crisis—a period that had deeply disrupted the Swiss watch industry—Blancpain, guided by Jean-Claude Biver and Jacques Piguet, set out to reclaim its heritage in traditional mechanical watchmaking. It became a testament to that vision, highlighting craftsmanship through hand-finished movements, sophisticated complications, and traditional techniques. These models incorporated features such as minute repeaters, tourbillons, perpetual calendars, and more, all encased in precious metals and produced in strictly limited quantities. This ref. 0021 is one of the first 80 of the model produced and perhaps represents the most pure design of the collection. It features an ultra-thin case/movement with exhibition back and its pure white dial pairs well with almost any strap color. Across Swiss brands the use of platinum is reserved special models and for a time-only dress watch it adds an extra bit of heft that makes it stand out as a collectible piece. This example has remained in excellent neo-vintage condition with a mint dial and clean water resistant case that display thick and even lugs as well as strong hallmarks. It retains its correct platinum BP pin buckle and is ready to enjoy for years to come.

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