Blancpain Fifty Fathoms LIP with humidity indicator ca. 1955

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms “LIP” in stainless steel, 34mm, powered by the automatic caliber R108 based on the AS 1361. Produced around 1955, this is a rare and early example of the medium sized Fifty Fathoms in the coveted LIP / Blancpain double signature configuration, supplied by LIP as official French distributor primarily to the military. A similar piece was worn by Commander Cousteau in Louis Malle’s 1956 film “Le Monde du Silence.” The black lacquered dial retains its original salmon and eggshell humidity indicator disc, a feature found exclusively on military versions and later echoed on the American Milspec 1. Complete with original Bakelite directional bezel, period rubber dive strap and commando textile strap. Brand: Blancpain Model: Fifty Fathoms “LIP” Year: Circa 1955 Movement: Automatic, Cal. R108, base AS 1361 Case material: Stainless steel Case size: 34 mm Bezel: Bakelite directional with lume pip Dial: Black lacquered, arrow indices, Tritium, humidity indicator disc Bracelet: Period rubber dive strap and commando textile strap Condition: Honest patina throughout Special features: Rare primitive pastille military version, LIP double signature, French Marine, humidity indicator disc