While it is well known that Blancpain claims to be the oldest watchmaker in Switzerland, it is interesting to note that the company prides itself on never producing a quartz timepiece. When the company was rebooted in the 1980s it did much to rekindle interest in mechanical watchmaking.

Magisterial in its manifestations, the discerning eye will demand this Air Command Chronograph by Blancpain.


With its flyback chronograph you can measure a succession of elapsed times. Look for a 12-hour counter at 9 and a 30-minute counter at 3. As a self-winding automatic timepiece, the F388B caliber has 35 jewels and offers up 50 hours of power. You can witness this attractive movement in action via the exhibition sapphire crystal caseback.

Make the most of this piece’s capabilities with a handy tachometer scale running along the outer edge of the dashingly handsome blue dial. SuperLuminova-filled Arabic numerals and hands make for easy viewing in any light.

The bidirectionally rotating coin-edged rugged titanium bezel with designations every 15 minutes is but an introduction to the fabulous titanium case that measures 42.5 mm in diameter and a slim 13.7 mm in height. Be sure to note this piece’s scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and 30 m / 3 atm water resistance.

This Air Command is currently on an aftermarket beige alligator leather strap, but should you want to change things up, the original Blancpain blue calfskin leather strap is also included.

Considerable in its reputation, we are pleased to offer this Blancpain Air Command Chronograph here at substantial savings, and we believe it will make an essential and historic addition to your collection.

Standout feature(s): Luxurious titanium case and bezel; convenient flyback chronograph function; engaging exhibition case back.


Details at a glance:

• Model Reference: AC02 12B40 63B
• Case Material: Titanium
• Case Dimensions: 42.5 mm
• Case Height: 13.7 mm
• Movement: Self-winding automatic, 35 jewels, 50-hour power reserve, 36,600 vph
• Caliber: F388B
• Complication(s) / Feature(s): Standard time, chronograph with flyback function
• Dial: Blue color
• Crystal: Domed scratch-resistant sapphire
• Winding Crown: Push / pull
• Water-resistance: 30 m / 3 atm
• Band: Watch is currently on an aftermarket beige alligator leather strap; original Blancpain blue calfskin leather strap is also included
• Clasp: Tang buckle
• Country of Origin: Switzerland
• Retail Value: $20,500
• Condition: Pre-owned in excellent condition; the watch has been checked for accuracy and all functionalities
• Comments: Includes original boxes, manufacturer’s booklet, manual and undated papers (incorrect reference, but the serial number corresponds to the watch).