In the early 1950s, Blancpain CEO Jean-Jacques Fiechter was diving off the coast of Cannes when he lost track of time and ran out of air. That brush with death instigated an inventive spirit to create a reliable instrument that could overcome the challenges of timekeeping in the deep blue.
The solution arrived in 1953 in the form of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, the world’s first modern dive watch. And for the last 70 years, the model remained the steadfast companion of choice for underwater explorers.
Aside from keeping divers safe, the maison has also been an ardent keeper of the sea through its Blancpain Ocean Commitment. The programme comprises three pillars: raising awareness of the ocean’s beauty; supporting scientific research on ecosystems and underwater phenomena; and taking concrete conservation action. In addition to aiding over 40 scientific expeditions and 15 marine protected areas, Blancpain has contributed to the preservation of over 4,700,000 sq km of the ocean.
The Ocean Photographer of the Year, presented by the brand and Oceanographic Magazine, is a particular cornerstone of the Blancpain Ocean Commitment. It aims to shine a light on the wonder and fragility of our seas as well as honour the photographers who give voice to their inhabitants.
The winner of this year’s competition is Spanish lensman Rafael Fernández Caballero for his arresting image of a Bryde’s whale feeding on a heart-shaped baitball. But the Female Fifty Fathoms Award goes to Malaysian photographer Ipah Uid Lynn, who is also its very first Asian recipient.