(Early Gilt MilSpec 1, Tornek-Rayville TR900, & Civilian Milspec)
Blancpains first produced its most iconic model ever, the Fifty Fathoms, in 1953. Along with Rolex and recognized for designing the very first diver's timepiece, Blancpain eventually led to a much different fate than Rolex as the company ended in bankruptcy during the fad of the quartz movements in the early 70's. Fortunately, the company was later revived in the 1983 and it's popularity has continued to rise.
Although Blancpain produced many special watches, some of their most unique and limited timepieces were the Milspec variations, all with the moisture indicator located right above the 6 o'clock marker. Amazingly, there was functionality to this design as the indicators changed color with the moisture in the air. These were designed mainly for military use but a number of them also were sold as "civilian" models sold to the general public. Few have survived the time and these are considered extremely collectible today.
A number of different dial variations have been produced for the the Milspec but all consist of a microbille casing. Some had a hacking movement but then some did not. Also noticeable details have been the different crowns seen upon different models and some even have lug holes and others have fixed bars. Some even have TR hands on their Blancpain models!! Similar to Rolex, you never know what you'll discover on your Blancpain making these that much more desirable and collectible!!
