As always, this is a review I bought with my own money. It has nothing to do with the brand. Although there may be individual differences, I avoid reviewing watches I haven’t personally used for a long time. I don’t consider an overview that looks like an advertisement or a quick review of someone else’s product to be a review.
1. Brand, Model Name
■ Blancpain Air Command
Limited Edition AC01
Regular AC02
Limited Edition AC02
2. Specifications (some key features)
■ Common Specifications:
- Case Diameter: 42.5 mm
- Water Resistance: 3 bar
- Lug Width: 22 mm
- Thickness: 13.75 mm
- Power Reserve: 50 hours
- Movement: Caliber F388B
■ Limited Edition AC01:
- Material: Steel
- Limited to 500 pieces
■ Regular AC02:
- Material: Titanium
■ Limited Edition AC02:
- Material: Titanium
- 200 pieces (Ref. AC02-12B53-63, 42.5 mm)
- 100 pieces (Ref. AC03-12B53-63, 36.2 mm)
3. Purchase Motivation and Process
I’m not particularly fond of chronograph watches—they tend to lack practicality, are expensive, and above all, complex. The more features, the larger they become. However, what immediately caught my eye was the “propeller rotor” in the limited edition Air Command. This detail felt thoughtfully designed, making me question if I could justify purchasing such an expensive watch purely based on that feature.
Though I’ve never liked chronographs, over time I began to understand why this particular model appealed to me.
In the end, I identified three reasons:
“the antique face (dial) design, the propeller rotor, and its rarity, along with the movement.”
4. Personal Evaluation
■ Antique Face (Dial) Design
The Blancpain Air Command is a revival of a watch created for the U.S. Air Force in the 1950s, originally produced in small numbers without a formal contract. This vintage-style design simplifies the modern chronograph’s complexity while maintaining its core functionality with a countdown bezel and chronograph features. The historical aspect of this piece is fascinating, and the timeless design resonates with those who appreciate heritage.
■ Propeller Rotor and Rarity
The propeller rotor in the Air Command Limited Edition stands out as a key feature. Blancpain previously used this design in the 500 Fathoms, drawing inspiration from marine and aviation propellers.
The modern version in the Air Command features a red gold rotor shaped like an airplane propeller, adding to its exclusivity. The titanium limited edition in green, released this time, features two different case sizes (42.5 mm and 36.2 mm), with 200 and 100 pieces respectively. I purchased this model for its F388B movement, the unique green color, and the propeller rotor, which is exclusive to the limited edition.
■ Movement
The F388B movement is an evolution of Blancpain’s F385, which was introduced in 2014. Built on the experience of the F185, it enhances precision, shock resistance, and magnetic protection. The movement includes innovations such as the flyback function and a stable vertical clutch mechanism, which ensures smooth chronograph operation. Unlike horizontal clutch systems, the vertical clutch eliminates the risk of second-hand jumping, making the chronograph more precise. While some brands repackage universal movements as “in-house,” Blancpain’s work on this movement is truly exemplary, demonstrating their dedication to mechanical integrity.
■ Limited Edition vs. Regular
The limited edition carries a special “weight,” not only in mass but also in emotional appeal. Its design feels warm and personal, making it suitable even as a dress watch for fall and winter. My initial attraction was to the propeller rotor, but this watch led me to appreciate the Bathyscaphe Chronograph, which I later purchased, along with the regular version of the Air Command.
The regular version has a blue sunray dial, reminiscent of the BOC3 color, and feels lighter, both in weight and aesthetics. Made of titanium, its matte finish initially made the case appear slimmer, but the actual thickness is the same as the limited edition. Those who found the limited edition large might prefer the lighter feel of the regular version, which can be worn on various occasions.
The green titanium limited edition (AC02) differs slightly from the AC01 in design. The propeller rotor is now in white gold, with brushed blades and anglage finishing, giving it a brilliant, polished appearance from different angles. The dial font has been updated, and the turbine part of the rotor has been changed from glossy to matte, giving it a more harmonious look with the brushed titanium case. These fine details make the limited edition all the more desirable to the select few who own it.
5. Conclusion
This watch series had an unusual launch, with the limited edition preceding the regular version. While some were disappointed that the regular version did not feature the same propeller rotor, the upgrade from steel to grade 23 titanium and the price drop make the regular version a very attractive option. The value proposition, even without the special rotor, is appealing to consumers.
The Air Command’s long lugs and curved spring bar may give the impression of a larger watch, but swapping for flat spring bars can improve the fit. I made this change and found it more comfortable.
In conclusion, the Blancpain Air Command strikes a delicate balance between heritage and modernity. While light in physical weight, it carries a heavy legacy, and its unique rotor design, robust movement, and thoughtful details make it a standout in any collection.
