From September 7th, and for a maximum period of two weeks, the JB 200 Poulpro watch will be available exclusively by pre-order. And once this period has elapsed, it will be impossible to buy it. This watch, which has an interesting history, will no doubt attract those looking for a timepiece that could well increase in value.
In the early 1980s, the JB 200 made its debut on the watchmaking scene. It was a quartz diver’s watch, water-resistant to 200 metres, that was highly recognizable thanks to its large silhouette of a diver on its black dial. Its “destro” winding crown was positioned on the left side of the case for greater comfort and ergonomics. This new version is housed in a 42mm case and marks a new chapter in the history of French skin diving. It is named JB 200 for “Jacques Bianchi 200 metres”. During the ‘80s, the brand was favoured by helicopter divers in the French Navy. It rose from the ashes in 2021 with a revisited version that remained true to its DNA by keeping the silhouette of a diver on the dial, which is a recognizable stylistic effect that makes the watch unique. This modern version has switched the original quartz movement for an automatic calibre.
Today, it is the turn of the second version of the JB 200 to see the light of day. This version, christened JB Poulpro, also comes in a 42mm stainless steel case, with a water resistance of 200 metres, and an automatic movement. The difference is in the dial that is now adorned with the image of an octopus.
“Our ambition is to make Jacques Bianchi Marseille a must-have watch brand, recognized for its craftsmanship, unique aesthetics and deep affiliation with the culture of Marseille, emphasizes Simo Tber, CEO of Jacques Bianchi Marseille. “The JB 200 Poulpro reflects this vision, and we are determined to take it even further.
Echoing the culture of Marseille
For centuries, the octopus has been revered in Marseille as a true ambassador of the seabed. Its enigmatic silhouette, its eight arms equipped with suction pads, and its exceptional ability to adapt to its environment have always intrigued the inquisitive minds of the city. More than any other ocean creature, the octopus almost naturally embodies a deep connection between Marseille and the sea.
This explains the choice of the octopus as the main decorative element on the dial of the JB 200 Poulpro, which comes in a choice of “squid ink” black or “Mediterranean” blue. It is a new neo-vintage must-have that combines the charm of 1970s diving watches, the elegance of 1960s professional instruments, and the robustness of 1980s diving watches.
The JB 200 Poulpro is available exclusively by pre-order on the Bianchi website, www.jacquesbianchi.com, from 7th September at a price of CHF 617, plus taxes invoiced directly by the carrier on delivery to the end consumer. And, for this limited period of two weeks only, the number of units sold during this period will correspond exactly to the numbers produced.
If you are a watch collector or budding speculator, this is a date to note, given that buyers of the first JB 200 launched in 2021 were a resoundingly success. Selling for around CHF 600, the 1,393 pieces were sold in just a few days and are now selling for between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,500 on the secondary market. The JB 200 Poulpro, with its blue or black dial, is definitely a watch to watch!
