Who Dived First Blancpain or Rolex?

Battle of the Depths: Who Dived First into the World of Dive Watches

Blancpain or Rolex?

In the silent world beneath the waves—where only the diver’s breath and the echo of water can be heard—there is no room for error. Down there, a watch is not just a stylish accessory; it’s a lifeline. And in the currents of history, two timepieces emerged that changed the rules forever: the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms and the Rolex Submariner. For decades, watch enthusiasts have asked: Which came first? And who truly deserves the title of “Icon of the Deep”?

A Naval Beginning: Blancpain Makes the First Move

In 1953, Blancpain—a Swiss watchmaker—picked up on signals coming from the ocean’s depths. Partnering with elite officers from the French Navy, the brand developed the first watch designed specifically for professional divers: the Fifty Fathoms. It wasn’t just water-resistant; it was a technical breakthrough.

Equipped with a rotating bezel for timing dives, luminous markers for low-light readability, anti-magnetic protection, and water resistance up to 91 meters (50 fathoms), it quickly earned a place on the wrists of military divers around the world—including the U.S. Navy SEALs.

Rolex Responds a Year Later… and Builds a Legend

Just a year later, in 1954, Rolex unveiled its masterpiece: the Submariner. Bold in design, robust in performance, and magnetic in its appeal, the Submariner may not have been first—but it knew how to steal the spotlight.

With water resistance up to 100 meters, the shock-resistant Oyster case, and its now-iconic “Mercedes” hands, the Submariner became more than just a tool—it became a symbol. It was worn by James Bond on the silver screen, by Jacques Cousteau on his expeditions, and soon found its way onto the wrists of adventurers and celebrities alike.

While the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms holds the crown for being first, the Rolex Submariner secured its place in cultural legend. One was revolutionary in its innovation; the other was brilliant in its branding and universal appeal.

The Verdict: Who Wins the Depth Race?

If you’re after “who was first,” Blancpain claims the title without dispute. But if you’re asking “who’s the most iconic,” Rolex casts a long shadow. The truth? Both watches paved the way for an entire genre and wrote a timeless chapter in the history of horology.