Blancpain Unveils Lady B Mechanical Jewel Watch
Blancpain introduces the Lady B, a tiny spherical mechanical watch inspired by the 1950s Ladybird collection. The piece, available in steel or red gold, features an interchangeable strap system and a sophisticated in-house movement.
Blancpain has launched the Lady B, a small spherical mechanical watch that pays tribute to the 70th anniversary of its historic Ladybird collection. The new model is a modern interpretation of the 1950s Bullet version, which was marketed as the world's smallest round watch.
The release highlights a lesser-known chapter of Blancpain's history, one driven by Betty Fiechter in the mid-20th century. The Lady B, with the 'B' standing for Betty, is described by the brand as half jewel and half mechanical. It is presented as an eminently fresh and modern piece.
A Tiny, Spherical Case
The Blancpain Lady B features a remarkably small case measuring 19mm in diameter. Its volume is just 2.9 cubic centimeters. The case is a two-part construction, with the back designed to be nearly invisible on the wrist. It is available in two materials.
| Material | Retail Price (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | 9,500 |
| 18k Red Gold | 14,500 |
The opaline dial is paired with gold-applied polished stick indices. Hands are offered in either steel or gold to match the case material.
The Mechanical Heart
Powering the watch is the Manufacture calibre 615, one of the smallest contemporary round automatic movements. Blancpain introduced this movement in 1995. Over three decades, it has received several enhancements, including the incorporation of a silicon balance spring.
The movement measures 15.7mm in diameter and is 3.9mm thick. It beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 40 hours.
Interchangeable Strap System
A key feature of the design is its interchangeable strap system, directly inspired by the historic Bullet model. The watch has no lugs. Instead, the double-tour calf leather strap threads through a slot machined into the caseback.
This allows the strap to be changed in seconds. Blancpain offers the strap in seven color options: white, beige, mocha, burgundy, blue, coral, and purple. The strap is closed with a pin buckle. The system is designed to let wearers effortlessly match the watch to an outfit or occasion.
The Blancpain Lady B is released as a permanent collection model. For more details, the brand directs customers to its official website.
