Since their first collaborative release in September 2023, Swatch and Blancpain have continued expanding their Scuba Fifty Fathoms collection with bold new designs. The latest addition, the Swatch x Blancpain Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Green Abyss, stands out with a color scheme steeped in military history.
A Nod to Military Tradition
Unlike its vibrant predecessors, the Green Abyss adopts a subdued OD Green (Olive Drab Green)—a shade deeply rooted in military utility. According to Doc Jargon, the U.S. Army’s historical columnist, this hue was the standard for all branches of service from 1952 to 1989. Officially termed ”OG” (Olive Green), it remains a staple in tactical gear, outdoor equipment, and apparel.
Complementing the OD Green is field tan, used for the dial markers, hands, bezel, and strap—a deliberate pairing that enhances legibility while reinforcing the military aesthetic.
Signature Features Retained
The Green Abyss retains the core elements of the Blancpain x Swatch collaboration: a Bioceramic case, a unidirectional dive timer bezel, and an exhibition caseback adorned with a decorative nudibranch. Powering the watch is Swatch’s SISTEM51 automatic movement, offering a 90-hour power reserve.
The finishing touch is a two-piece NATO-style strap crafted from recycled fishing nets, complete with a Bioceramic buckle.
Strategic Design Choices
While Swatch and Blancpain have not explicitly cited military inspiration, the color selection suggests a purposeful tribute. The combination of OD Green and field tan—both iconic in military history—aligns with the watch’s rugged, functional appeal.
With eight models already released, the Green Abyss may emerge as the most distinctive yet, blending horological craftsmanship with a subtle nod to the past.
