Tudor is one of the most anticipated of brands for Watches and Wonders, and this year was no exception. The Shield that protects The Crown has launched a new range of Black Bay models, kicking off with the new Black Bay 41 with Burgundy dial and some subtle and not so subtle upgrades.
The Black Bay 41 Burgundy was the watch in 2012 that put Tudor and the Black Bay on the map that year, and in 2023 at Watches and Wonders, Tudor has re-visited this model as it’s choice to launch it’s models, and they’ve done a very, very good job!
The Look
First up, Tudor has given the overall look some subtle changes. The case size remains the same at 41mm, and for those fans screaming out for a thinner profile, then Tudor have delivered as the new movement is now trimmed to 6.5mm thick. Tudor is yet to release the case thickness however. The dial has lost it’s three-line configuration and been replaced with a classic 2 line configuration, (alas, not the return of the smiley found on the original ETA model) as it’s now been given METAS certification as a Master Chronometer.
Other subtle changes are evident too. The bezel offers very prehensible sides and its insert shows subtly curved numerals aligning with the outline of the outer ring. The seconds hand now reflects the look of the early diving watches of the brand with a lollipop design, losing the small snowflake, while the satin black dial is subtly radial-brushed for a very subtle shine under direct light. Ergonomics have evolved as well, with a redesigned crown, reminiscent of the curves found on the crowns of the brand’s historical technical watches, that is set flush to the middle case band so that its tube is not visible – one gripe I had with the original Black Bay 41.
The most noticeable change is it now comes in three bracelet/strap options, all with Tudor’s T-Fit rapid adjustment clasp. For those purists, you can chose the three link oyster style rivet bracelet found on the original Black Bay, and the Submariners of old. For those wanting something a little different and like a Jubilee style bracelet, then you can opt for the five-oval-shaped-link brushed and polished steel bracelet. And if steel isn’t for you, then a sporty black rubber strap with steel clasp and ‘T-Fit’ system is available. All great options in my opinion.
The Movement
Tudor have given the new Black Bay 41 a movement overhaul. The Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U, which powers the Black Bay, displays hour, minute and seconds functions. Now METAS certified, it bears the Master Chronometer branding, with accuracy of 0/+5s per day when fully cased. Along with this, the silicon hairspring means it’s anti-magnetic and has a 70 hour power reserve, meaning you can take it off Friday night, and put it back on Monday morning with it still running perfectly.
Whilst the Black Bay still has its traditional case back, the MT5602-U is a good looking movement should you feel the need to take a peak under the hood. The overall movement has dedicated sun laser design, whilst the Master Chronometer mention is emblazoned across the bridges, emphasising its distinctive performance. Its rotor is fashioned in tungsten monobloc and is openworked. It also features the distinctive laser radial grooving with sand-blasted details. Its bridges and mainplate have alternate sand-blasted and polished surfaces and laser decorations to finish off the design.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, the new version of the Tudor Black Bay 41 is a great looking watch. Tudor have managed to take an already great looking, and well received piece, and upgrade it in all the right areas. Whilst some people thought the 41mm case size was too big, the BB58 addressed this, but more so, it was the thickness that deterred a lot of buyers due to the sheer case walls. The slimmer movement and as a result, slimmer case fixes this.
Now having three bracelet/strap options means that you can change the look to suit your needs, and again, the rivetted bracelet was a point of contention and polarising amongst collectors. Whilst it was true to the 1950’s Submariners, it wasn’t for everyone and the new five link bracelet and rubber strap now means you have options here too. The T-Fit clasp is also another welcome change, as is the new METAS certified movement. Stay tuned for hands on pics later this week!
Reference: 7941A1A0RU
Specifications
- Case: 41mm Polished and brushed steel case
- Calibre: Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U, Automatic self winding and METAS Certified 0/+5s per day
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
- Power reserve: 70 hours
- Water resistance: 200 m / 20bar
- Dial: Black, domed with slight sunray finish
- Cystal: Sapphire domed
- Caseback: Closed
- Bracelet/Strap: Choice of three-link or five-link stainless steel bracelets with polished and satin finish, or rubber strap, all with TUDOR “T-Fit” clasp.
Availability: Enquire now through all Authorised Dealers, Tudor Boutiques or online at Tudor.com
Australian Recommended Retail Pricing: $6,340 (on steel 5 link), $6,190 (on steel 3 link), $5,890 (Rubber)
