Blancpain has launched the Lady B, a miniature mechanical watch celebrating the 70th anniversary of its Ladybird collection. Inspired by the original Ladybird Bullet from 1956, the Lady B features a compact, spherical design without traditional lugs, allowing interchangeable straps to pass through the case. It is powered by the brand's Caliber 615 automatic movement, a rarity in this size segment.
- 19 mm case diameter
- 13 mm case thickness
- Stainless steel or 18k pink gold case material
- Cal. 615 automatic movement
- 30 m water resistance
- 38-hour power reserve
- Price: CHF 9,500 (stainless steel)
- Price: CHF 14,500 (18k pink gold)
The Lady B is presented as a spiritual successor to the Ladybird Bullet, which housed the world's smallest round mechanical movement 70 years ago.
The watch's spherical form and absence of lugs give it a charming, bead-like feel, with a pass-through channel for interchangeable straps.
The Caliber 615 movement features a silicon hairspring and a free-sprung balance, noted as potentially the smallest in a production watch.
The Lady B is named for Betty Fiechter, the first woman to lead a major Swiss watch brand, and also references 'bijou' or 'jewel'.
The strap passes through the case via a micro-blasted channel to allow easier sliding of the thin calfskin leather.
The watch is designed to appeal to women seeking smaller, dainty cocktail watches reminiscent of those worn by previous generations.
Blancpain's history in women's watchmaking and miniaturization is highlighted, with Betty Fiechter's leadership during the 1930s being a key factor in the brand's survival.
The Caliber 615 is described as a modern triumph, featuring 180 components and a silicon balance spring.