November 6th 2016 marked the Australian launch of this second watch in the ongoing series of Blancpain Ocean Commitment limited editions. Hosted by Alain Delamuraz, Blancpain Vice President and Head of Marketing, and marine biologist, esteemed underwater photographer and friend of the brand, Laurent Ballesta, this special event welcomed media representatives aboard a yacht in the bay of Sydney. After the press conference, guests enjoyed dinner and refreshments during a cruise through Sydney Harbour, with a cocktail bar and live DJ entertainment on the top deck, while drone photography buzzed overhead.

During the press conference, Alain Delamuraz commented: “No single organization alone can bring the change that is needed, so Blancpain has joined forces with some of the ocean's best ambassadors, motivated by a long-term investment approach and capable of making a difference.” He continued: “The most important part of all Blancpain Ocean Commitment initiatives is that they yield results. For example, the scientific work, original economic arguments, and stunning images provided by Blancpain-backed expeditions have inspired world leaders to protect areas totaling 3 million square kilometers of ocean.” Blancpain believes that contributing to environmental protection depends upon an informed public, and has therefore worked to raise awareness of these issues through support of important scientific projects, ocean exploration initiatives, underwater photography, environmental forums, public exhibitions, major publications and a dedicated website. Guests at the event saluted and expressed their appreciation for the brand’s ongoing endeavors to protect the oceans.

During the evening, famed marine biologist and Blancpain partner Laurent Ballesta delivered a personal account of his thrilling diving expeditions entitled the “Gombessa Projects” to the captivated audience, accompanied by an exhibition of his underwater photographic work. He eloquently shared his conviction that “knowledge and dreams are the two most important values of our time in order to raise awareness of the wealth, fragility and importance of our oceans.

In order to live, we have a vital need for food as well as for hope. My expeditions along with others contribute in some measure to this, as my watch reminds me whenever I check the time."

Guests also had the chance to admire the new Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Flyback Chronograph Blancpain Ocean Commitment II, endowed with its first ever all-blue ceramic case. For each timepiece sold in this 250-piece limited edition, an amount of 1,000 Euros will be donated in support of scientific expeditions. The resulting 250,000 Euros will be added to Blancpain’s contributions in support of our oceans.