Blancpain Perpetual Calendar with Moon Phase, circa 1990s

Launched in the mid-1990s, the present perpetual calendar model was part of the “Masterpiece Collection” that Blancpain launched with the aim of showcasing and preserving the traditional art of mechanical watchmaking. The collection focused on six watches in extra thin cases, the classical mechanical movements represented the firm’s vision of authentic haute horlogerie. The six were the perpetual calendar with moon phases, the ultra slim “time only”, the tourbillon, the split seconds chronograph wristwatch, the triple calendar wristwatch with moon phases, and the minute repeating wristwatch. The current example retailed 25 years ago for $35,000. In this regard this watch, with its refined proportions is a great representative of the manufacturer at a bargain price.

Blancpain SA is a top tier Swiss watchmaker located in Le Brassus, Switzerland. Blancpain is perhaps best known today for its line of Fifty Fathoms diving watches which were introduces in 1953, but the company has a rich history of innovation and manufacture of complicated watches. Blancpain holds several records including the world’s thinnest split-second chronograph, the slimmest minute repeater, and the world’s first flying tourbillion with 100-hour power reserve.

Condition: Very fine. Shows wear consistent with age, but no unsightly chips or scratches.

Case Size: 34 mm

Movement: Ultra slim Automatic Caliber 953, 21 jewels

Oscillations: 21,600 vph

Power Reserve: 40 hours

Signed: case, dial, movement, tang buckle

Accessories: none, watch only on a new strap