Basel 2008: Blancpain Speed Command Chronograph Watch

The Blancpain Speed Command Chronograph is an exciting new introduction, which unites dynamically sporty details with exquisite mechanical engineering.  The exterior is provocative; measuring 45mm in diameter, the stainless steel case features a stealthy black DLC coating.  This element synchronizes perfectly with the patterned carbon fiber dial, which features a tachymeter ring--a first in a Blancpain chronograph.  The sporty yellow numerals and other minute details are echoed in the strap stitching and the numbers on the finely crafted bi-directional sapphire bezel.  Red Superluminova applications on the hands enhance the daring appearance of this watch, while also facilitating superb legibility in low light conditions.   Sapphire crystals are fitted to both sides of the watch, and the crown and chronograph pushers screw down.  This factor contributes to the impressive 300-meter water resistance rating.    

The Blancpain Speed Command Chronograph watch utilizes the Caliber F185 movement.  Comprised of 308 hand finished pieces, this complex vertically-coupled chronograph mechanism relies on a column-wheel, and features a flyback function to permit rapid, successive timing sequences.  Functions of the caliber include date, subsidiary seconds, and chronograph 30-minute and 12-hour counters.  The fine decorative elements include polished screw and jewel settings, perlage on the plates and bridges, and anglage-finishing on all edges.  The central rotor is crafted from rhodium-plated yellow gold, and bears a 'Cotes de Geneve' decorative pattern.  The power reserve of the F185 Calibre is approximately 40 hours.  

Blancpain has fitted the Speed Command Chronograph watch with a barenia leather strap, whose inner surface is lined in rubber.  A pin-style steel buckle securely joins the timepiece to the wrist.