Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronographe FlybackvsCertina DS Super PH500M


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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback

DS Super PH500M
Diameter
43mm
43mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
48.2mm
Thickness
14.9mm
lowest
14.9mm
Water Resistance
300m
500m
highest
Power Reserve
50h
80h
highest
MSRP
$22,800
$1,107
lowest
Movement
F385
POWERMATIC 80.611
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
1 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback is lauded for its technically advanced F385 automatic movement, featuring a high beat rate, flyback function, and excellent finishing. Owners praise the chronograph's contribution to the dial's visual appeal and the smooth operation of its 1/10th second measurement capability. The watch offers 300m water resistance with functional chronograph pushers. However, the 43mm case size is considered large by some, and one reviewer noted the bezel action is slightly stiff. The date window placement between 4 and 5 o'clock was also cited as less appealing by one source. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Blancpain Bathyscaphe Chronographe Flyback highly for its sophisticated tool watch aesthetic and impressive in-house chronograph movement.
Owners widely praise the Certina DS Super PH500M for its retro dive watch aesthetic, good legibility, and value, with many highlighting its striking orange dial and secure bezel lock. The Powermatic 80.611 movement is reported as consistent and accurate, with one owner noting +2/+3 seconds per day performance. The watch is considered tough and offers good specifications for its price. However, some find the 43mm case and 15mm thickness substantial, potentially wearing large on smaller wrists, and one reviewer notes the crystal retaining ring can be a scratch magnet. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Certina DS Super PH500M highly for its vintage-inspired design and excellent value proposition.
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