Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A vs Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT

In-Depth Comparison

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A and the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Blancpain and Grand Seiko are both highly respected names in watchmaking. The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A comes from Switzerland, while the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT originates from Japan. This particular Fifty Fathoms reference was introduced in 2018, while this Sport reference debuted in 2024. The Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A beats the Caliber 1315DD caliber offering a 120-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 35 jewels. The Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT is powered by the 9RA2 with a 72-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 50 jewels. The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A wins on power reserve with a 48-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A features a 43.0mm case at 13.9mm thick with a 48.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT comes in at 43.2mm and 15.3mm thick with 50.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 130g, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Unidirectional rotating, ceramic insert bezel, while the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed Tachymeter bezel. On the wrist, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A comes on a Grey NATO-style sail canvas strap with Stainless steel pin buckle, while the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT is fitted with Stainless Steel bracelet featuring Fold-over.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A is rated to 300m / 984ft and the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT to 100m / 328ft. For serious diving or water activities, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A offers a meaningful advantage.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A lists for $13,300 compared to $13,000 for the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT. On the secondary market, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A trades around $11,000 while the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT commands approximately $12,000.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A and the Grand Seiko Sport SLGA017 Tentagraph GMT ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For diving and water sports, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Day Date 70s 5052-1110-B52A is the stronger choice. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.