If you’ve purchased or are considering a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, there’s one element just as crucial as the case or movement: the strap. In this post, we’re diving into an in-depth review of the various strap options Blancpain offers, based on actual user experience. From bracelets and sailcloth to rubber and NATO straps, we compare all the major types to help you find the perfect fit for your wrist.
1. Bracelet (X-71, Ceramic, etc.)
- Pros: Luxurious finish, balanced weight distribution, excellent wearability
- Cons: No extension or micro-adjustment feature
Blancpain’s X-71 bracelet scores high on comfort and aesthetics. But despite being a dive watch, the absence of a push extension or micro-adjustment is disappointing. Considering that brands like Omega and Longines (also in the Swatch Group) offer these features, there’s room for Blancpain to improve.
2. NATO Strap
For users who alternate between daily wear and diving, NATO straps offer unmatched convenience. They’re lightweight, easy to swap, and perfect for casual versatility. However, the utilitarian look may not be for everyone.
3. Sailcloth (Kevlar)
- Old version (pre-2021): Soft, supple, great comfort but poor coating durability
- New version (post-2021): Improved durability and structure, though slightly less soft
Compared to third-party options like Artem, the Blancpain OEM sailcloth strap is the better pick if you’re already spending in that range. It also fits common lug widths: 20mm, 21.5mm, and 23mm.
4. Rubber Straps – Tropic / Standard / Tech
① Tropic Rubber (20mm, 21.5mm)
A classic nod to vintage diver watches. The old model is softer, the new one firmer—both are durable and comfortable.
I recently heard from a friend in Germany that a 23mm version is coming soon.
It was a bit disappointing that the Tropic strap for the 42mm FF came out with the same thickness as the one for the 40mm FF —it felt too thin.
I really hope the 43mm version will be released with a bit more thickness.
② Standard Rubber (23mm)
Outstanding comfort and fit. Remember: the side with the embossed lettering should face inward. When compared to Barton straps, Blancpain’s rubber quality is clearly in another league.
③ Tech Rubber (BOC IV, ACT 2, X-Fathoms line)
Engineered for diving with unique curvature and soft material. However, there are caveats:
- May lift off the case if you have a slim wrist
- Keeper loop is loose and may shift during dives
- No diving extension strap included
These issues could be solved with design ideas like a Rolex’s Oysterflex comfort pad system and Garmin-style keeper stopper.
Conclusion & Suggestions
One personal gripe: on 20mm straps, the 12 o’clock side is too short, which shifts the buckle awkwardly to the top of the wrist. A longer top strap would greatly improve the symmetry and comfort.
| Strap Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bracelet | Luxurious, great wearability | No extension, tricky to swap |
| NATO | Easy to change, lightweight | Style may not suit everyone |
| Sailcloth | Great style, good durability | Older models wear faster |
| Rubber | Comfortable, durable | Tech model needs improvement |
The Tech Rubber Strap has the most potential—just a few tweaks could make it the ultimate dive strap.
Which strap do you prefer? Or what improvements would you like to see?
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