Scalpers will no doubt have a field day with buying up the newly announced Blancpain X Swatch Scuba Fifty Fathoms “Ocean of Storms” watch.

The Swatch Group marketing team have done wonders in stirring up folks that would otherwise not give a traditional watch a second look, into fervent watch enthusiasts. Their Omega X Swatch MoonSwatch started it all a few years ago, and last year’s mash-up between stablemates, Blancpain and Swatch kept the excitement rolling on.

I must admit, the new all-black version, Blancpain X Swatch Scuba Fifty Ocean of Storms has piqued my interest – it’s the pick of the bunch in my humble opinion.

Inspired by the “Oceanus Procellarum,” a vast sea covering parts of the Moon’s surface, the sixth entrant in the Scuba Fifty Fathoms collection, “Ocean of Storms” is now referencing oceans off this world!

Drawing inspiration from historical timepieces, the dial is adorned with four Arabic numerals and eight markers, all generously filled with luminous material to ensure optimal readability in low-light conditions. The central seconds hand sports a vibrant yellow tip, injecting a subtle pop of color, while the water-resistance specification underscores the watch’s commitment to durability. Protecting the dial is a crystal crafted from bio-sourced materials, marrying style with sustainability.

A nod to tradition, the Scuba Fifty Fathoms features a thoughtfully placed date window between 4 and 5 o’clock, seamlessly blending modernity with classic design elements. Under the hood, the watch is driven by the Swatch’s Sistem51 self-winding movement, a marvel of engineering that operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and boasts an impressive power reserve of 90 hours.

Crafted with precision and efficiency in mind, the Sistem51 movement comprises a mere 51 components, all meticulously assembled by machines. The inclusion of a Nivachron hairspring enhances the watch’s resistance to magnetic fields, ensuring accurate timekeeping even in challenging environments.

Flip the watch over, and you’ll be treated to a captivating sight through the exhibition case back. A mesmerizing depiction of the Oceanus Procellarum mare takes center stage, with an intricately detailed image of an Okenia Luna nudibranch gracing the rotor. This artistic touch adds a layer of uniqueness to the timepiece, inviting wearers to appreciate the beauty both inside and out.

For complete specs and pricing (in Australia) of the Ocean of Storms, check out the Swatch site.