Category: Tudor

Tudor Black Bay vs. Black Bay 58 [ENDING the Age-Old Debate!]

Posted on October 30, 2022August 7, 2023 by Joseph Lama

The watch you wear serves a higher purpose than just being an accessory that tells time. If the ability to tell the time was all we wanted from a watch, it would not matter if we grabbed a cheap one from a street shop as long as it served this purpose. A watch has personality. It defines the wearer – You. It should showcase your elegance, your evolved outlook in life, and your classy personality.

In this article, we explore two classic watches from Tudor, the black bay 58 and its predecessor, the black bay. Both are vintage watches that fit perfectly within that description. The Tudor Black bay watches are classics designed for people who appreciate elegance, functionality, and durability wrapped in a classy accessory.

The Black Bay vs. Black Bay 58

Tudor stirred luxury watch lovers with the release of the Black Bay watch in 2012. The watch was seen as an effort to reincarnate the classic diving watch, the 7922 Tudor Submariner. However, the hype was short-lived, with new entrants competing in the same category (notably the Rolex GMT) being released around this time as well.

The Black Bay 58 was a reprieve for Tudor, with evident improvement from its older sibling. With the heightened attention that went to this watch, it was evident that Tudor must have done something right with the 58.

For starters, the deviation from the norm of the bigger the better startled the luxury dive watches industry – but it got the buyers excited and that was all that mattered. Things were about to change. The 58 came with a compact case that was in contrast to what was expected of a luxury dive watch of its caliber.

After the Black bay 58 watch was released at Baselworld in 2018, it became an instant success. In so many ways, it was also an improvement of the 1954’s submariner. Tudor’s Black Bay watches are renowned for their durability. The submariner was identifiable by its black colorway, large crown, and gilt markings. The Black Bay 58 watch was designed for the modern man.

Sure, it may have borrowed several design elements from the submariner but when placed side by side, there is no doubt that the 58 is contemporary, well-crafted, and poised to enjoy all the webbings of modern society while wrapped around a modern man’s wrist.

The watch combines vintage functionality with style – something many watch enthusiasts resonated with. This watch was an upgrade and improvement from the original Black bay in every sense. The size, movement, quality, diversity, design, and accuracy of the 58 was enhanced to provide comfort at a reasonable price point. With this watch, you get all the trappings of a modern classic without breaking the bank.

Color variations between Black Bay and Black bay 58

One striking feature that made the 58 popular is the creation of different variants featuring different colors and case materials. The black bay 58 blue variants have been the most successful to date, followed closely by the rare black edition. The watch also comes in red, black, green, steel, bronze, black, and Chrono. Others may come in custom colors depending on the client’s tastes and preferences.

The case design between Tudor Black Bay and Black Bay 58

Not much distinguishes the 58 from the original black bay model in terms of case design- apart from the size. They have the same build, although the 58 is a bit shrunken. They both take after the older Tudor submarine’s design.

The crown guards in the submariners seem more complex than those on the 58, with more detailed bezels in their architectural design. The 58 does not have crown guards. Expect scratches if you will wear this watch occasionally.

The compact size of the Black bay 58 seems more stylish (at 39mm diameter) compared to the Black Bay Watch (at 41mm diameter). This is a 5% reduction in size. The 2mm difference may not seem much to a layman, but it does affect the comfort and sleek look of the watch.

In terms of flanks, there is a whopping 18.3% difference in height in Tudor black bay 58 vs Rolex submariner. Black bay 58 flanks are 6.45mm tall against the submariner’s 5.45mm. A 1mm difference can affect a watch’s design immensely.

The case size in the Black Bay 58 is not accidental. The inspiration to reduce the case to this specific size came from some of the best watches ever made. We are talking about the Omega Speed master (1957) and the Royal Oak (1972).

The finishing on both watches is identical. They both have stainless steel polished finishes on the sides of the case. The top of the lugs has a satin finish. The Black Bay has a date functionality at the 3 o’clock position as well as a fourth hand.

Weight comparison between Black Bay and Black Bay 58 watches

Black Bay is considerably heavier than the 58 at 177g when adjusted to a rest wrist length of 6.5 inches. The 58 watch is at 137g when adjusted to the same length. This is about a 25% difference and it can affect how the watch lies flush to the arm.

To place this into perspective, the famed Rolex submariner watch is at 148g while adjusted to the same rest wrist length – and this is one of the best watches ever made. Both Black Bays are comfortable on the wrist irrespective of the Black Bay being a bit heavier.

The Black Bay watch also has a noticeably larger crown than the 58 but this does not affect the watch’s comfort and functionality. The thickness of the Black Bay 58 is 12mm while the Black Bay’s thickness is 14.7mm thick. This makes the 58 lies flatter/flush on the surface of the wrist.

Dial and Bezel for Black Bay 58 and Black Bay

The black Bay 58 has a uni-directional 60-click bezel that makes comforting crispy sounds with no back play. The Black Bay is a bi-directional 60-click bezel. Both bezels are fixed expertly in place. The Black Bay’s bezel is slightly harder to turn. You have to press on it first. The bezel inserts on both watches are made of stainless steel.

The Black Bay comes with a 2-tone look (red and blue). The blue tone seems darker when you look at the watch in person than when looking at the picture of the Black Bay (It almost looks black in low light). The Black Bay 58’s bezel is black with gilt writing. The triangle at the zero position has a lume pip. There are minute increments from 0 to 15 on the 58, and then 5-minute increments thereafter.

The teeth on Tudor’s bezel are not pronounced, and although they add a level of sleekness to the watch, this may prove to be a slight design flaw. Imagine trying to wind the bezel with neoprene gloves during a dive, or with cold hands. The bezel grasp is not as great as the one on a Rolex submariner, or the predecessor 1950s Tudor submariner watch but it is still very functional.

Movement and accuracy of the Black Bay and Black Bay 58

The movements of both the black bay 58 and the older black bay watches are powered by Kenissi. The MT5402 calibration found inside the Black Bay 58 is smaller (at 26mm) compared to the one in MT5602 designs (at 31.8mm). The smaller calibration does not show balance wheels underneath.

Both watches have 70 hours of power reserve and an accurate, COSC-certified plus or minus 2 seconds per day. The mechanical movements for both watches beat at 28,800 vibrations per hour. Most people who have owned these watches for a long time say that these watches are accurate to the hilt.

The only slight hitch noted (especially with the early releases of the Black Bay models) was that the date wheel was not changing on time. This glitch was resolved in subsequent releases.

The bracelet design

Both Tudor black bay watches have excellent steel bracelets. The design borrows heavily from their predecessors as well as the Rolex watches. The Black Bay lug width is 22mm while the 58 is 20mm. The 2 extra millimeters add to the bulkiness of the Black Bay watch.

These extra 2mm are part of the changes that lead to the increment of the Black Bay – and probably affect how the watch lies on your wrist. The Black Bay watch has a 50mm distance between one lug to the other while the 58 watch has a 47.5mm distance.

The clasp of the Black Bay is also longer at 19.83mm against 17.95mm of the 58. Both watches have step-tapering solid links as opposed to the gradual tapering we often see in most watch brands. The clasps are identical on both watches.

They have fracture-resistant locks on both watches with 3 micro-adjustments to fit almost any wrist size. The clasps open the same way and the guards have the Tudor logo on both watches.

Lume on Black Bay 58

Both Black bay watches have excellent luminous dials. When you place them in the dark, they have a green glow that lasts quite a while. The 58 has a darker glow compared to the Black Bay but the difference is almost negligible. When you place the two watches side by side, you will immediately notice that the green glow accentuates the size of the dials and hour markings. The 58 has larger markings than the Black Bay.

Water resistance

Both watches have up to 200 m of water resistance capacity. There is a lume pip at the zero mark on the 58 that allows divers to tell the time in the dark. The Black Bay does not need this as it was not designed as a diver’s watch.

FAQs on Black Bay and Black Bay 58

What does the fourth hand in Black Bay do?

The red-colored hand in the Black Bay watch makes a single rotation every 24 hours. You will notice that the watch has two colors on the bezel. These colors differentiate between hours and days. The numbers in the red section of the bezel represent day hours while the ones on the blue bezel represent night hours.

The red hand is meant to be set as the ‘home’ reference time. This means that if you travel somewhere, you can always tell the local time at your present location.

How do I adjust the time on a Black Bay watch?

-Unscrew the winding crown – The watch is automatic but it can also be manually wound.
-Pull the crown all the way – There are three levels of winding up a Black Bay watch. In the first level lest you adjust the local hour hand and the date. The second level lets you adjust your preferred local time.

Can you overwind a Tudor watch?

No. The mechanisms for winding on the Tudor watch allow for excess tension to be released as you continue winding.

Is Tudor Black Bay black rare?

Yes. The black bay black is the rarest of the black bay edition of the modern Tudor watches ever made. Originally, Tudor only made the red version of the black bay watch. They later expanded to produce the blue edition and then the most desirable edition-the black bay black.

Tudor overhauled this black bay black line and ceased production. With the Tudor black bay 58 discontinued, the demand rose and this made the watch a classic among collectors.

When did the Tudor Black Bay come out?

The Tudor Black Bay watch came out in 2012. It debuted at Baselworld.

Will Tudor Black Bay 58 hold its value?

The most probable answer is yes, the Tudor black bay watches will probably hold their value over time. However, it may not be advisable to buy a watch as an investment because you never know what will happen in the future. Sure, some classics (such as the Rolex submariner) have held their value over time, especially within watch collectors’ circles but no one can guarantee that this would happen for modern watches.

Conclusion

Tudor Black Bay watches provide the comfort, functionality, and class many vintage watch enthusiasts have come to love. Both have a lot to bring to the table, and what you choose really depends on your preference.

If you love large watches, you would enjoy the Black Bay. It has all the trappings and elegance that come with being a Tudor. Noting that Tudor borrows heavily from Rolex in their designs, you can expect the watches to have the best quality.

The Black Bay 58 was the highlight of the Tudor Black Bay edition. It is a compact dive watch that has won the hearts of many watch lovers all over the world. It fits snugly on your wrist and the uni-directional bezel movement makes it a great companion as daily wear for the modern, complex man. Both watches run great and have 70 hours of power reserve.

As discussed in this article, both watches have rich features that will serve any purpose you may have. It all comes down to your preference and probably the cost. Whichever one you choose, you are guaranteed to have a wholesome experience.

Tudor GMT Vs. Rolex GMT (IN-DEPTH Comparison of all Variants!)

Posted on October 14, 2022August 24, 2023 by William Boyd

Rolex and Tudor are some of the best brands producing timepieces globally. These brands have built a reputation in the watchmaker industry for their classic and efficient wristwatches. Although Tudor is not as famous as Rolex, the brand comes through when you need outstanding wristwatches.

Until recently, people considered Tudor wristwatches “the poor man’s Rolex.” However, the brand has proven itself worthy by crafting some outstanding luxury wristwatches. Nowadays, it is easier to find people checking to see which of these two brands is the best, more with the introduction of GMT watches.

The Tudor GMT vs. Rolex GMT comparison strikes several nerves. It is pretty challenging to pick a side in this debate because each brand produces the best GMT wristwatches. Thus, it isn’t easy to pick a side at first glance. We will take an in-depth look at the two brands and what makes each unique. Before we proceed, we will first understand what GMT wristwatches are and how they work.

What Is a GMT Wristwatch?

We have often seen wristwatches with the inscription “GMT” on them. However, we may not fully understand what GMT means. A GMT timepiece is one with a 24-hour format in addition to a second hand that indicates a second-time zone. This means you can tell the time in your current location and another location of your choice if you correctly set the second hand.

“GMT,” as seen on some wristwatches, stands for Greenwich Mean Time. GMT watches offer two things: standard hands that tell local time and a hand always synchronized to GMT. Hence, you can use the GMT hand to get accurate time readings worldwide. Why, then, do you need GMT timepieces?

GMT timepieces make it easier and more efficient to tell the time in another timezone. Not all GMT wristwatches work as well as others. One of the most popular and reliable GMT timepieces is from the Rolex brand. The Rolex GMT-Master is renowned for its efficiency. Another brand that produces efficient and exciting timepieces is Tudor.

Now that we understand the workings of GMT wristwatches, we can better compare Rolex and Tudor GMT timepieces, their features, histories, and what makes each brand’s GMT timepiece special.

The Rolex Brand

Rolex SA is one of the most renowned watchmakers in the world. This British-founded Swiss timepiece designer and manufacturer came into existence in 1905. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the brand started using the name “Rolex” in 1908. Later, the brand changed its name to Rolex Watch Co. Ltd in 1915.

After World War I, in 1920, Hans Wilsdorf decided to register the timepiece as Montres Rolex SA. The Hans Wilsdorf Foundation has owned and run this company since 1960. Interestingly, Tudor falls under Rolex as one of its subsidiaries.

Although Rolex has a hand in developing the famed quartz watch movements, it has produced chiefly mechanical timepieces. While the brand has only made a few quarts timepieces for its Oyster brand, the Rolex engineers helped design and implement the movement in the late ’60s and early ’70s.

It is interesting to see how Rolex SA has improved with time. Initially, the brand used ceramic bezels (Cerachrom) on its timepieces. One of the wristwatches that featured this bezel was the GMT-Master II in 2005. Later, the brand used ceramic bezel inserts in its professional sports watches.

When it comes to steel, Rolex uses 904L grade stainless steel, which is more than you will find in other brands. Most other watch brands use 316L grade steel. Hence, Rolex wristwatches are more corrosion-resistant. Additionally, these wristwatches leave a beautiful luster when polished.

Rolex GMT Wristwatches

Rolex began making GMT wristwatches in 1954 with the introduction of the Rolex GMT Master. It didn’t take long before the brand also launched the GMT Master II, which is one of the most prominent timepieces in the world today. The GMT Master from Rolex has a luminous bakelite bezel insert. Additionally, it features a caliber 1036 automatic movement and a GMT complication.

The brand quickly replaced the red and blue bakelite since it easily cracked. Later in 1956, Rolex introduced a metal bezel for its GMT timepieces. Moreover, the brand released several watches after the first. Some significant releases include 1675, 16760, 16750, 16710, 16700 GMT Master II, and 116710.

Tudor Wristwatches History

In 1946, Wilsdorf established Montres Tudor SA to offer a new perspective to users who wanted something other than Rolex watches. This unique collection of wristwatches targeted a new market segment and made a name for itself.

Tudor launched the Tudor Oyster in 1947. Although the name resembled the Oyster seen in Rolex wristwatches, the design was quite different. Since then, Tudor and Rolex have shared brand names. Another prominent collection shared by Rolex and Tudor is the Submariner models.

Although Tudor is a subsidiary of Rolex SA, the brand uses original and distinct advertising to garner its customers. Tudor’s early models were among the first to offer water resistance and self-winding movements in timepieces.

Historical Tudor Timepiece Models

Much like Rolex, Tudor has a rich history of prominent wristwatches that have made their mark. One such timepiece was the Tudor Oyster Prince 7909, launched in 1952. The timepiece had several case sizes, from 31mm to 34mm. Hence, users could enjoy a classic watch for their exact wrist size. The Tudor 7909 had a crown with a logo.

The watch case lodged the caliber 390, a third-party movement with a 2.5Hz frequency. After this first Oyster release, Tudor released subsequent models like the Tudor Prince Date-Day in 1969. The Tudor Prince Date-Day had a case diameter of 37.5mm.

With time, Tudor moved to produce Diver wristwatches which somewhat became the brand’s specialty. The brand released its first Submariner model in 1954, called the Tudor Oyster Prince Submariner 7922. This timepiece had a Mercedes-style hour hand and a crownless protector case back.

Tudor started producing wristwatches with case guards in 1959 with the advent of the 7928 movement. Moreover, the brand has worked on and evolved its case guard designs. Tudor proceeded to introduce several chronographs in the 1970s. One central chronograph released by Tudor at that time was the Montecarlo 7169/0, and the brand released the timepiece in 1971.

Tudor’s Renaissance

As with most renowned brands, Tudor underwent a period where it seemed to have lost focus. Consequently, the demand for its models dwindled and was at an all-time low. At that time, the brand no longer sold its timepieces in America and the United Kingdom for several years. Tudor only started selling in the UK market in 2014.

When a new administration arrived, they paid more attention to detail and released the Tudor Advisor in 2011. This timepiece had a mechanical alarm and took its design inspiration from the Tudor Advisor 7926. Although the watch was not a replica of the Tudor Advisor 7926, it was a contemporary interpretation of the past.

Next, the brand released the Tudor Pelago, a timepiece without crown protectors. This timepiece had a snowflake hour hand and featured a titanium and steel case. One of the brand’s most outstanding designs arrived in 2012 when it released the Tudor Heritage Black Bay.

Later in 2013, Tudor launched the Heritage Chrono Blue. The timepiece has some eye-catching orange and blue hues once spotted by the 1970s Monetcarlo models. Since its renaissance, Tudor has managed to enlarge its timepiece models. Nowadays, you will find Style and Range models as a part of its diversification process.

Rolex GMT Vs. Tudor GMT: Which Is Best?

Although Rolex is the most famous brand in the world and will always get many customers, Tudor has gained more ground since its renaissance. Before now, most people thought of Tudor wristwatches as the poor man’s Rolex. However, the brand has changed this perception.

Tudor and Rolex GMT wristwatches are all outstanding timepieces. Hence, it is challenging to pick a favorite at first glance. However, we can use a few things to determine which brand produces the best GMT watches. We will look at these features and compare the similarities and differences to determine which brand has outstanding GMT timepieces.

Design

You will discover that Rolex and Tudor have many things in common, considering their timepiece designs. Its public knowledge that Tudor obtained inspiration from Rolex’s Submariners when designing its Tudor Black Bay collection. Not only that, Tudor and Rolex have both used similar designs on several projects. Each brand modifies the primary structure into something exclusive.

Tudor was the cheaper alternative to Rolex before now. Nowadays, Tudor also produces some of the most expensive timepieces that match Rolex’s pricing. This increase in pricing is understandable since Tudor uses Rolex components for making its watches. The only difference is that Tudor uses third-party movements in all its timepieces.

Considering the current Tudor Black Bay GMT (ref M79830RB-001), you will discover that it has that distinct Submariner design found in other Black Bay timepieces. The 41mm retro wristwatch resembles the watches of the 1950s when the Rolex GMT Master (1954) and Submariner (1953) debuted.

Although the Rolex GMT master has evolved, the Tudor Black Bay GMT has retained some of its original designs. You will discover that the GMT Master II Pepsi (ref 126710BLRO) looks more modern than the Black Bay GMT. This GMT Master II is the first with a red and blue ceramic bezel.

Technology

Before now, Rolex was the better of the two brands technology-wise. While Tudor depended on third parties to produce its movements, Rolex made theirs for decades. However, Tudor launched their in-house movement in 2015 and has swiftly implemented them across its timepiece collections. Today, both Rolex and Tudor have in-house movements for their GMT wristwatches.

While the most recent Rolex GMT Master has a Rolex Caliber 3285 movement, the Tudor Black Bay GMT has the Tudor caliber MT5652 movement. Both movements are automatic and feature 70-hour reserves, respectively. Additionally, both wristwatches display time in two time zones.

The difference is that the Rolex wristwatch comes with a magnifying Cyclops lens on the date window. The Tudor Black Bay GMT has a regular date display without the unique magnifying lens featured in its Rolex counterpart.

Pricing

It shouldn’t be a surprise that Rolex charges premiums for its wristwatches. The Tudor Black Bay wristwatch with a stainless still bracelet goes for about $4,300, which is quite affordable. On the other hand, Rolex charges about $10,300 on its current GMT Master II. Thus, you can make a choice depending on your budget.

From the price angle, the Tudor Black Bay is a better choice. However, it is not that easy. The money spent on Rolex’s GMT Master II offers quality and status. Wearing a Rolex wristwatch comes with so much respect, and Rolex stands for success and is the foundation for the Tudor Black Bay GMT. If you need an original GMT wristwatch, the Rolex Marinemaster is your surest bet.

Tudor Pepsi Vs. Rolex Pepsi

As we mentioned earlier, Rolex and Tudor share similar names for their wristwatches, and the Pepsi collection is not left out. While you can find Pepsi wristwatches for both Rolex and Tudor, there are some slight differences that we will now consider.

Tudor Pepsi and Rolex Pepsi wristwatches got launched in 2018 as part of each brand’s exclusive GMT wristwatches. Hence, there is not much separating them in the year of release. However, considering the case size, Tudor’s Pepsi Black Bay GMT wristwatch has a bigger case size (41mm) than Rolex’s Pepsi GMT Master II (40mm).

Although both brands use stainless steel materials for their wristwatches, Rolex uses higher-grade steel. Rolex uses Oysetersteel 904L stainless steel for its case material. Hence, you will enjoy a more scratch-resistant timepiece from Rolex than Tudor.

There is nothing much to separate the two timepieces regarding the dial. Tudor Pepsi and Rolex Pepsi have a black dial with luminescent hour markers. Additionally, both wristwatches have date displays, time with running seconds, and GMT functionality. Rolex’s Pepsi GMT Master II has a bidirectional bezel with red and blue ceramic inserts and a 24-hour scale.

Although Tudor’s Pepsi Black Bay GMT wristwatch has a bidirectional bezel, it uses aluminum (red and blue) inserts with a 24-hour scale. Also, while you typically find a domed sapphire crystal on Tudor’s Pepsi timepiece, you will find a flat Sapphire crystal window on the Rolex Pepsi GMT Master II. However, the distinguishing characteristic is that the Sapphire crystal from Rolex comes with a Cyclops lens.

Another distinguishing feature is that Tudor’s Pepsi Black Bay has a water resistance of 200m, which is more than the 100m spotted by Rolex’s GMT Master II. While both wristwatches have automatic caliber movements, Tudor opts for the caliber MT5652, while Rolex uses a unique caliber 3285 movement. Below is a table summarizing the similarities and differences between the Rolex Pepsi and Tudor Pepsi wristwatches.

Feature	Tudor Pepsi	Rolex Pepsi
Launch Year	2018	2018
Case Size	41mm	40mm
Material	Stainless steel	Oysersteel 904L Stainless Steel
Functions	Date display, time with running seconds, and GMT function	Date display, time with running seconds, and GMT function
Dial	Black with luminescent hour markers	Black with luminescent hour markers
Crystal	Sapphire (flat) with Cyclops lens	Sapphire (domed)
Water resistance	200m	100mm
Movement	Tudor caliber MT5652	Rolex caliber 3285
Bezel	Red and blue aluminium insert, bidirectional with 24-hour scale	Bidirectional, red and blue ceramic insert with 24-hour scale
Strap/Bracelet	Fabric or leather strap, stainless steel bracelet	Jubilee or Oyster bracelet
Retail Price	About $4000	About $9,700

Things to Consider When Choosing Between the Tudor Black Bay Vs. Rolex GMT Master II

Timepiece enthusiasts know that wristwatches do more than just tell time. For such watch lovers, these timepieces represent coveted accessories that suit their outfits. Additionally, brands like Rolex and Tudor produce wristwatches of high value that can serve as collectibles.

It is usually challenging regarding the Tudor black bay GMT vs. Rolex Pepsi debate. However, consider a few before choosing a suitable wristwatch from these brands.

The Style

You need to consider the watch style when deciding between these two brands. While Rolex has evolved, Tudor has not. Tudor still carries the vintage designs from timepieces in the ’60s and ’70s. Thus, you can go with Tudor if you need vintage yet classic styles. On the other hand, you must patronize Rolex if you need modern and more aesthetically pleasing timepieces.

Although these brands come from the same ownership, Rolex is more prestigious. Wearing a Rolex GMT Master II timepiece or any Rolex wristwatch classifies you with successful and accomplished individuals. At the same time, Tudor is also a renowned brand but not as famous as its Rolex counterpart.

Whichever brand you choose, ensure that the Pepsi wristwatch you pick suits your daily outfits. You won’t have to spend more money buying extra wristwatches. Additionally, you must consider water resistance if you love water sports or marine activities. You can also try to select neutral colors. The strap you pick depends on your preference. Hence, you can choose leather, stainless steel, or rubber straps.

The Fitting

You must always consider how well your wristwatch fits to look smart. Although mostly overlooked, your wrist size is essential in picking the suitable wristwatch for you. If you have a small wrist, you must choose a timepiece that suits smaller wrists. For example, our article covers borders on the Tudor Pepsi Vs. Rolex Pepsi comparison.

Tudor Pepsi has a bigger case size than Rolex Pepsi. Hence, smaller-wrist individuals will have to opt for Rolex Pepsi if they want to enjoy more brilliant looks. Contrastingly, more prominent wrist individuals will have to consider Tudor Pepsi GMT timepieces since they have a bigger case size. Why must you pick an appropriate wristwatch for your wrist size?

A small, thin wristwatch may look rather delicate on someone with a large wrist. A more oversized watch will look too big on a smaller wrist in the same light. Thus, it would help if you always used the appropriate wristwatches to appear smart.

Price and Value Retention

It is no hidden fact that Rolex timepieces cost more than Tudor’s. People usually referred to Tudor timepieces as “the poor man’s Rolex.” Although Tudor has increased the pricing for its Pepsi Black Bay and other models, it still does not measure up to the amount charged by Rolex.

You must consider the Rolex Pepsi timepiece if you want a pricier wristwatch with higher value retention. If, on the other hand, you need a less expensive option, you can consider the Tudor Black Bay.

Maintenance

Both Tudor Pepsi and Rolex Pepsi have durable and robust timepieces. These brands have made a name for producing solid and durable watches. Thus, you may not need to spend extra money on maintenance after purchasing these timepieces.

Note that you may have to spend more on maintenance with Rolex Pepsi if you have to do any maintenance. Tudor does not charge as much as Rolex regarding maintaining its Pepsi Black Bay wristwatch.

MT5652 vs. Rolex Movement: Which is the best?

Both movements have unique and similar characteristics. The Rolex GMT Master II has a caliber 3285 movement. Furthermore, this movement has a self-winding, 31-jewel automatic movement feature that replaces the original caliber 3186. This new movement has a bigger diameter that enhances its 70-hour power reserve. Thus, you can expect higher precision, resistance to shock, power reserve, and longevity with this timepiece.

The Tudor Black Bay GMT has a caliber MT5652 movement, which is just as efficient as the Rolex caliber 3285 movement. Unlike the 3285 movement, this movement has a 25-jewel self-winding movement (automatic). Interestingly, this movement also has a 70-hour power reserve. Additionally, this movement has a variable inertia balance, a bidirectional rotor system, and a micro-adjustment by screw. The caliber also has a non-magnetic balance spring (silicon).

It is pretty challenging to pick out the better of the two because each of these movements has similar features with just a few variations. Hence, you can use any of them and get near-similar results.

Tudor Pepsi or Roles Pepsi: Which is more expensive?

Both Tudor and Rolex Pepsi are exciting timepieces. However, as far as pricing is concerned, Rolex Pepsi costs more than Tudor Black Pay. While you can obtain your Tudor Black Bay wristwatch for around $4000, the Rolex GMT Master II goes for about $9500 to $10000.

Conclusion: Which Pepsi GMT Timepiece Should You Buy? Rolex or Tudor?

After reading this article, there should be only one question on your mind; which timepiece then should I buy? This question has several answers depending on what you want. Whether the Rolex GMT Master II or Tudor Heritage Black Bay GMT depends on your preference.

If you want prestige and class, you can go for Rolex. However, you can buy a few Tudors with the money for the Rolex and still have some change. The Tudor Pepsi is an outstanding timepiece with an excellent design. If you are a purist, you will love Tudor Pepsi. Interestingly, the wristwatch features a 70-hour power reserve in its in-house movement.

You can snatch up a Tudor Black Bay GMT from its online store if your local retailer has no left in store. Don’t worry about the fees; you will only pay a small fee for delivery. If you are a Rolex lover, you should be ready to spend around twice the amount a Tudor buyer would spend. However, as you may have guessed, a Rolex timepiece is the real deal.

So which timepiece is right for you? That we can’t say. However, we can say that the two watches have exciting features. You can opt for any of them depending on your preference and budget. Whichever wristwatch you choose, you will indeed have a beautiful experience.

Tudor Black Bay 36 vs. 41 (Which is PERFECT for a Man’s Wrist?)

Posted on July 28, 2022February 25, 2023 by William Boyd

Are you searching for a great watch that has great value? In this article, I will compare and contrast the features of the Tudor Black Bay model 36 and model 41 wristwatches for your consideration. For those that are unfamiliar with the Tudor brand, Tudor is essentially the sister company of the very successful and popular Rolex brand.

Based in Switzerland and founded by Hans Wilsdorf, both continue production today managed by the Wilsdorf Foundation. With this in mind, both collections share many of the same attributes and innovations exclusively developed by Mr. Wilsdorf and his team of artisans. For many years, Tudor was viewed as a poor man’s Rolex.

I personally experienced selling both brands at the retail level in the early 1980s and most often, a customer who desired a Rolex ultimately purchased a Rolex, even after inquiring about the Tudor collection. Tudor, at the time, seemed to be more of a stepchild than the sister company it truly was. There seemed to be somewhat of an identity crisis.

Fortunately, with the relaunch of the Tudor brand in the United States approximately ten years ago, the brand has made great strides to present its uniqueness and appeal. With the addition of exclusive in-house movements manufactured by Tudor and not customized ETA movements, the move towards a more distinct brand identity is well underway.

In this article, I will attempt to educate you on the attributes of the Black Bay model 36 and model 41 watches and address the concerns about the size of each of the models and concerns addressing any questions as to if these models are men’s watches. Rest assured, both models are comparable to the size of some other very well-known brands.

For example, the Black Bay 41 is outfitted with a 41mm size case. In comparison, the Rolex Submariner is outfitted with a 41 mm case and the Omega Seamaster with a 42mm case. The Black Bay 36, on the other hand, boasts a 36 mm case which is equivalent to the Rolex Datejust model 16200 (One of the most popular in the Rolex collection). All of the Tudor models are certified Swiss chronometers. For novices, a chronometer denotes an instrument for accurately measuring time.

The official certification refers to the COSC which is the official Swiss chronometer testing institute that certifies chronometers that fall within a precise range of accuracy. One constant throughout the collection is that each Tudor watch comes with a five-year guarantee that requires no registration or periodic maintenance checks.

Tudor Black Bay 41

The Tudor Black Bay model 41 can basically be broken down into two categories. The first category ranges in price from approximately $2950.00 to $3275.00. These models are the entry price points and all consist of stainless steel cases that are water resistant to 150m (approx. 500ft). These models are available with an extensive list of features and strap, bracelet, dial, and bezel combinations.

The 41 mm case is available in either a polished or satin finish and an accompanying smooth steel bezel with a polished finish. Each has a sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown. There are a number of different straps available depending on the specific watch choice and consist of the following; aged brown or black leather, blue, black, brown, or burgundy fabric or a steel, satin finished bracelet with a folding clasp and safety catch.

Each watch is fitted with a Tudor T600 self-winding mechanical movement with a 38-hour power reserve capacity. In the second category are the steel and gold models that range in price from $5250.00 to $5875.00. These possess a sporty air but are much more everyday business smart timepieces. Each is fitted with a Tudor MT5601 self-winding mechanical movement with a bidirectional rotor system with a 70-hour power reserve.

For clarity, the bidirectional rotor expedites the transference of power to the mainspring whether the rotor turns clockwise or anticlockwise. They are water resistant to 100m (approx. 330 ft.). In addition, each possesses a sapphire crystal and a yellow gold screw-down crown and is completed by a steel and gold bracelet reflecting polished and satin finishes and a steel “T fit” folding clasp with a safety catch. The $5875,00 model has a dial with diamond markers thus the increment in price.

I have taken the liberty of including the following model though it is not formally a Black Bay model 41 watch but has a 41mm case and is truly a remarkable watch. The timepiece I am referring to is the Black Bay Ceramic which retails for approximately $4825.00. This is truly a signature piece for the Tudor line and boasts some world-class features as well as being a real eye-catcher. The case itself is a black ceramic case with a micro-blasted finish and a monobloc middle case.

It has an open case back in black PVD treated 36L steel with a sapphire crystal. This provides viewing access to the Tudor model MT5602-IU self-winding mechanical movement with a bidirected rotor system. The movement is capable of 70 hours of power reserve. This particular movement is a COSC-certified chronometer whose precision has been tested at two different temperatures, six different positions, and at two levels of power reserve (100% and 33%).

It also is antimagnetic meaning it is smooth functioning when exposed to a magnetic field of 15,000 gausses with precision following such exposure. To complete the Black Bay Ceramic it is available with either a hybrid leather or a rubber strap with a steel folding clasp and safety catch in black PVD-treated 316L steel. According to the Tudor website, a complimentary black fabric stamp with a cream band and black PVD treated 316L steel buckle is also included.

To close my article, I will share a bit more information on the Tudor Black Bay model 36 as mentioned earlier in this article. The model 36 is a rugged everyday watch that shares a very similar appearance with its Rolex counterpart. Though slightly smaller in stature the watch would be comfortably at home on any man’s wrist.

The Tudor 36

Once again, I will take the liberty of breaking down the Model 36 into three categories. The first part of the collection would be the steel case watches that retail for approximately $2725.00 to $3050.00. The 36mm case is a combination of both polished and satin finishes and is outfitted with a sapphire crystal. The movement is a Tudor T600 self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve capacity of 38 hours.

Additionally, the watch is water resistant to 150m. (approx. 500 ft.). The crown is a steel screw-down winding crown, with the Tudor rose in relief with a black anodized aluminum winding crown tube. The strap models are available in beige or brown leather or in black fabric. The other option is a steel satin finish bracelet with a folding clasp and safety catch.

The second category is the steel and gold models which retail in the realm of $5025.00-$5650.00. Each of the watches available here has a Tudor MT5400 self-winding mechanical movement with a bidirectional rotor system with 70 hours of power reserve capacity. A sapphire crystal and a steel and gold polished and satin bracelet round out the physical features. The bracelet also has the “T fit” folding clasp and safety catch.

The lower price points in the category are available with either silver, black, or champagne dials. The upper price point in the range reflects dials with diamond markers available in silver, black, and champagne finishes.

The Black Tie finish

I have created the third category to feature some steel and gold models that would usually be part of the second category. My reasoning for singling these timepieces out is that they are striking and offer value in what could be viewed as a “Black Tie Watch.” These pieces are adorned with both a diamond marker dial as well as a full diamond bezel.

The approximate retail of these watches is $7325.00. and would be a perfect complement to a tuxedo or when being worn to attend a wedding or gala-style event. These models are once again available in either black, silver, or champagne dials.

Tudor Sizing on a Man’s Wrist

In closing, either the Tudor Black Bay Models 36 or 41 are timepieces that should be considered for their features, history, quality, and value, given the price of many Swiss watches today. There seems to be a considerable amount of conversation concerning the difference in the case size and bracelet between the aforementioned models and how they appear on the average male wrist.

In researching these particular discussions, the claim that the Black Bay 36 is too small for a 7.5 inch or larger wrist or that the 41 is too large for a 6.25 or smaller size wrist are valid concerns in weighing your ultimate purchase. In an age where it seems everyone weighs in concerning their opinions on such matters, I believe that an individual’s choice should be entirely subjective.

To make the best decision, if possible, visit a legitimate Tudor watch dealer and try the Black Bay 36 and 41 on. Actually seeing the timepiece on your own wrist should go a long way to helping you make a confident decision. While opinions are vast and readily available, the comfortability of the watch on one’s wrist coupled with the aesthetics and material of the watch should be your ultimate criteria in making your purchasing decision.

I would also recommend that perhaps you make your choice with a trusted individual or partner. Someone in whom you trust their critique and opinion and can offer honest input in your buying decision. A caveat I also would suggest is not to over-research the debate of one size case vs. another. As with vast amounts of opinion and information, the results could lead to both confusion and mental overload.

Do your research, make a list of possible candidates for your purchase, and visit your Tudor dealer. Trying on the physical products will go a long way to assuaging any doubts or questions you might harbor about a wristwatch that will look amazing on your particular wrist and make the statement that you desire.

While Rolex continues to be known for its name, all one needs is the confidence to recognize a superior crafted timepiece instead of succumbing to the urge to follow the pack. For an excellent discussion and overview of the question surrounding the Tudor size 36mm models for a man’s wrist I suggest the following review:

Tudor vs Omega: Brand Comparison

Posted on August 7, 2021February 27, 2023 by Ethan Richardson

Tudor vs Omega

Even in the digital age of technology, the luxury watch market filled with analog watches is one of the world’s most competitive markets. With brands like Rolex, Omega, Tudor, and Tag Heuer, there are multiple watches to choose from in every price range and every category. One of the reasons this industry is so competitive is its rivalries between different watch brands. In the world of luxury watchmaking, every brand is trying to capture the same market of customers, which allows the industry to innovate rapidly and bring new designs and new movement systems to the table. One such rivalry which has been a hot topic in the industry for a long time is Tudor and Omega. While both brands are top-tier and endorsed by various celebrities, the customers still compare watches launched by both brands to see which one comes out on top.

The History of Tudor and Omega:

When it comes to the timepiece industry, every luxury watch brand has garnered a reputation and has a legacy and rich history they have left behind. Tudor and Omega are no different, as they both have strong roots.

Tudor

The foundation for Tudor watches as a luxury watchmaking brand was laid in 1926 by a Swiss watchmaker, Veuve de Philippe Hüther, which translates to “Widow of Philippe Hüther.” The reason why this name was given to her was that she took over the company after her husband died. In 1926, Veuve de Philippe Hüther trademarked the name “The Tudor” and reached an agreement with Hans Wilsdorf for the exclusive rights of the name. By 1932, the first watches adorned with the Tudor insignia were launched in the Australian market. At that time, the rectangular shape and beveled edges of the watch were unique.

Since Hans Wilsdorf was involved in Tudor’s establishment, multiple Tudor watches also bore Rolex’s symbol and/or name to make the association of the two brands clear. Hans Wilsdorf is even reported to have said that he launched Tudor as a brand that offers the same standard of dependability that Rolex offers, only at a more modest price. The current Tudor watches result from the rebranding and refocusing they did in 2013 when they returned to the US market. While they still have Rolex’s name attached to their watches, the modern Tudor watches take a lot of inspiration from classic Tudor watches and combine that with modern-day technology and materials.

Omega

Alongside being one of the world’s most renowned brands, Omega is one of the most historically prominent luxury watch brands. Established in 1848, Omega has been producing watches for over 170 years and almost two centuries. For 30 years. Louis Brandt, the founder of Omega, maintained it as a family business and workshop, selling watches to customers from various countries. After his passing in 1979, his sons took over the company and saw just how promising their dad’s work was. Soon after, they decided to expand the business and began manufacturing parts in-house. They were able to relocate the workshop to Bienne, the same region where the Omega headquarters is currently located.

Sixty-three years after Omega developed its first mass-produced movement system, Labrador, Omega launched its most iconic watch collection, the Seamaster, in 1948. The 20^th century proved to be extremely successful for the brand as Omega also got an endorsement from NASA after Wally Schirra wore a Speedmaster on the Sigma 7 mission, and Buzz Aldrin wore it to the moon. After this, the Speedmaster became the official chronograph for all space missions at NASA. Today, Omega is one of the biggest luxury watch companies, and the quality of their watches has only gotten better alongside their reputation.

Which Watch is More of a Household Name?

Tudor vs Omega? In the watchmaking industry, being a household name suggests that a brand has a great following in the market, and one of the first names that come to mind when people think of luxury watches is that brand’s name. While there can be more than one household name, naturally, a difference in popularity and brand awareness would put one brand over another.

When comparing Tudor and Omega, Omega would have to be considered as more of a household name in the industry. Not only is this because Omega has a richer history, but it is also because Omega is one of Rolex’s competitors, and Rolex’s name often overshadows Tudor’s. While Tudor still has a significant following, Omega’s popularity, legacy, and awards/accolades, such as winning the Snoopy Award in 1970, suggest that Omega is more of a household name.

Which Watch Has a Better Warranty Policy?

One of the most important aspects of luxury watches is the warranty they offer. The policy’s significance can be seen from the fact that there is even a European law that sets the minimum warranty for luxury watches at two years. While several watchmaking companies meet the minimum, both Tudor and Omega go above and beyond in this regard. In 2018, Tudor and Omega entered the five-year club as they started offering five-year warranties on all of their new watches. In that regard, there is no disparity between the two brands.

Tudor or Omega: Who Has More Collectible Pieces?

Tudor vs Omega? A luxury timepiece brand cannot be considered exclusive if its watches’ cannot function as collectible items. For watch enthusiasts and collectors, the luxury watch industry is a gold mine, and only a few brands act as the gold in that mine. Both Tudor and Omega are brands endorsed by a variety of A-list celebrities. The two most popular collections of these brands that have gained popularity even amongst the elites are the Seamaster and Black Bay collection. While the Seamaster is an essential item to complete Agent 007 James Bond’s attire, Black Bay fans include popular celebrities like David Beckham and Will Smith. It is a close call when it comes to celebrity endorsements, but Omega retains its value better than Tudor. While Rolex has the industry in the bag when it comes to value retention, Tudor doesn’t get nearly the same treatment. Not only do Omega watches have a richer history, such as traveling to the moon, but Omega is also generally a more prominent and more popular brand. Since it is a more popular brand, more of Omega’s watches retain their value, which means more of their watches serve as collectibles later on.

Which Watches Have a Superior Design?

While this category is very subjective, one can make some objective observations. Let’s start by comparing the two most popular collections of the brands, Black Bay and Seamaster. The Black Bay collection by Tudor features watches that are 41 mm in size and have a vintage approach to them. They have a satin finish on the lugs and have polished sides alongside large winding crowns.

Tudor vs Omega? On the other hand, Omega’s Seamaster watches are comparatively bigger with a 42 mm case diameter, which means they are best for medium to large-sized wrists. Simultaneously, they are available in a variety of builds ranging from steel and titanium to gold. Although their design approach is a classic one, the watches have been given a modern finish with clean lines and neutral tones.

Designs put forth by both brands are stunning, but when looking at them objectively, Omega offers more variety and choices for customers. In that regard, Omega would take the cake and come out on top in this comparison.

Which Watches Have Better Specifications?

Specifications or inner-workings are a category where Omega would even give Rolex a tough competition, let alone Tudor. Omega is one of the only watches that went to the moon and withstood rigorous NASA testing, which no other watch has done. Simultaneously, the Caliber 2500 movement system used in the Seamaster collection post-2015, for instance, is both METAS and COSC certified. It also offers a 60-hour power reserve alongside functions such as a coaxial escapement, which requires no lubrication.

While the Caliber MT5602 by Black Bay on the opposite end offers a 70-hour power reserve, it only has a COSC certification and not a METAS one. Side by side, this is the first movement system they made in-house in 2015, while Omega has been making its movement systems for years. Whether it be the experience in designing specifications for watches or the efficiency of those specifications, Omega edges out Tudor in this regard as well.

Who Wins?

Tudor vs Omega? Conclusively, while Tudor is by no means a low-tier brand, it simply has not reached Omega’s level yet. While Omega competes with the Patek Phillipe and Rolex brands, Tudor hasn’t entered that league of luxury watches. Whether it be popularity, design, or what’s under the hood, Omega beats Tudor by a long margin in some categories and close calls in others.

Oris vs Tudor: Brand Comparison

Posted on February 19, 2021February 28, 2023 by Ethan Richardson

Making watches is nothing less than a fine art. The mechanical piece of equipment made diligently and pragmatically by an extensive craftsman is something worth admiring. There is a certain feeling of euphoria when we stop for a while to admire our watch. People can relate to the magic of luxury timepieces every time they put them on. Every watch has its own aura created from the time and energy the craftsman put in to contemplate the design and structure. This is why people seek out hand-made watches. Your luxury timepiece reveals a lot about your personality and taste. Oris and Tudor are among the brands currently at the top of the list of renowned luxury timepiece brands in the world. In this article, we will be taking a look at a comparison of the two brands: Oris vs Tudor.

Oris vs Tudor: Comparison

Both the brands have their own specifications, and the problem with the comparison between these two brands is that there are no benchmarks to determine the scale of the qualities they offer. No measure could supplant these brands’ quality; it is just up to the purchasers’ opinions. Therefore, we will compare two of these brands’ common timepiece products, dive watches and dress watches.

Oris ProDiver Moon Pointer vs Tudor Pelagos

Both dive watches are made up of titanium parts that make the watches more durable and lighter. The precision and accuracy of the watches are exceptional. However, there are some differences in the specifications. Tudor has water-resistance durability up to 500 meters, and Oris ProDiver Moon Pointer exceeds the range by two times with a water-resistance up to 1,000 meters. Oris ProDiver Moon Pointer is the first luxury watch brand to feature the tidal range and lunar cycle feature. The watch is mechanical, so we can assume that Oris has an advantage over Tudor when it comes to dive watches.

Oris Artelier 01 Automatic vs Tudor Glamour Date and Day Diamond Dial

First, let us discuss the aesthetics of Oris Artelier 01 Automatic. The watch is designed with absolute dedication; the craftsman has meticulously designed each part of this extensive watch. It poses an exquisite fashion statement for the wearer and also a robust metallic design. When you look at it, you can envision all the aspects of aesthetics you could find in a mechanical watch. It is designed with a sapphire crystal window—no element could match the quality. The window is scratch-resistant.

Tudor Glamour Date and Day Diamond Dial comes with a diamond-studded dial. The name of the watch tells you all about this luxurious watch. This watch’s aesthetics are quite overwhelming; you will indeed feel that you haven’t seen any watch like this one. This watch is so exquisite that it contains all the features of the Oris timepiece. It comes with a 43 mm case, which is similar to the size of Oris. The functionalities and features of the watch are beyond compare. Whoever wears this watch will be astounded by its fine architecture and elegant parts.

Oris: Brand Review

Oris is a Swiss-based watch manufacturing brand with principles intact with the bygone era of constructing fine pieces of mechanical equipment. The brand has been serving us since 1904 with quality watches. Each timepiece created by the brand tells a different story and provides the person with a nostalgic feeling of the bygone era’s lost culture.

Quartz watches currently dominate the watch market as they tend to be more accurate, reliable, and long-lasting. These features make the watch uninspiring, and a true watch lover would agree with that. People that see the watches as simple pieces of equipment would never appreciate fine art. Oris is still endowed with its former glory, and it is known for manufacturing the world’s most accurate mechanical watches that never lose their integrity.

A timepiece is responsible for telling accurate time, and that feature gets compromised with mechanical watches as they do not use batteries or cells for powering the mechanism. It has been noticed that the brand has strong intentions for preserving the environment, such as raising funds for protecting the integrity of oceans and their ecosystem. The brand actively participates in a lot of charity organizations like this.

The brand is quite famous for restoring the traditional values of watch-making, and its motto is to manufacture and retail the world’s best mechanical watches at an affordable price. The price of these watches is more affordable than brands such as Rolex and TAG Heuer. However, the price is not a matter of concern here. All that matters is the impeccable quality of Oris Watches.

Tudor: Brand Review

The brand was founded in 1926, and you can easily presume all the qualities and features of a typical Tudor watch because it is a Rolex sister company. Everyone knows about Rolex and its integrity. Rolex is the most formidable watch manufacturing company, providing us with the best watches since 1905. Tudor was founded 20 years after the foundation of Rolex.

The founder, Hans Wilsdorf, was the person behind this extensive brand. You might ask why Rolex needs a sister company at all. Rolex was meant to produce only the world’s most formidable watches, and sometimes, the prices could reach the level beyond anyone’s imagination. No one would fathom to afford those watches except for the minted people of that generation.

That is why the founder thought of building a new company that could offer the same quality at an affordable price. However, Tudor has successfully impacted the market independently without the need to gain recognition in Rolex’s name. Tudor is just as formidable as Oris, and it won’t be easy to compare these two brands.

Indeed, it would be a poor choice to compare the brands’ functionalities in terms of the mechanics because these brands’ accuracy and functions are top-notch, and they exceed the scale of perfection. Both brands are unique and formidable.

Oris vs Tudor: Conclusion

Since both Oris and Tudor excel in different ways and are exceptional in their own right, the comparison between the two brands seems to end with a tie. Both the brands are formidable in their own way. It ultimately depends on the buyer’s perspective and taste because both brands redefine the epitome of aesthetics in watch manufacturing.