The BB Chronograph was first introduced in the 2017, fashioned entirely from steel, then in 2019 Tudor introduced another take on BB Chrono but this time in steel and gold with a black dial. Then in 2021 we saw an updated steel version. 3 years on from the first BB Chrono in steel and gold, Tudor have made an interesting update to this model by adding a champagne dial – which at first doesn’t seem like such a big deal but it does make a noticeable difference to the overall aesthetic.
As mentioned before, I am somewhat, impartial to steel and gold timepieces and this Black Bay is no different. I neither love them nor loathe them but some clearly work better than others. The subtle changes that Tudor have made on this Black Bay chrono are aesthetically simple yet very effective. Perhaps, what I like most is the use of champagne dial with a steel and gold case, marrying the whole look together.
The main Black Bay characteristics are retained, in a slim 41-millimetre steel case and equipped with yellow-gold pushers. It also features a black anodised aluminium bezel with gold print tachymetric scale, which is graduated to base 500 units per hour. The dial is a sunburst champagne affair with the registers at 3 & 9 o’clock highlighted in matte black, with a black minute scale and text. Though the depth rating has been highlighted in red, matching the central chronograph seconds arrow tip.
The Black Chronograph is fitted with a 70-hour power reserve, a silicon balance spring, and Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute certification. The calibre MT5813 that drives the Black Bay Chrono S&G model is a high-performance movement, which is based on the Breitling B01 but has been modified by Tudor. The movement itself is designed in the purest watchmaking tradition, with a column-wheel mechanism and vertical clutch.
Another touch that adds to the overall aesthetics of the Black Bay Steel & Gold, is the Bi-Metal bracelet it’s been paired on. We first saw this 1950s/1960s vintage inspired, riveted bracelet in 2016 on the Black Bay Black. This modern interpretation is true to form and features the very distinct stepped construction, though instead features faux rivets and modern solid links that offers a vintage look but has modern robustness. The Black Bay is also available with an aged brown leather bund strap with deployant clasp, or on a black fabric strap – which I must mention has to be one of the finest woven fabric straps around.
FLEETING THOUGHTS
While the Black Bay Chronograph in Steel & Gold is exactly new, the dial update does bring it into the realms of the fancy-fancy. That said, if Tudor really want to push the boat out on where to take the BB Chrono next, it would be nice to maybe see something fashioned out of Bronze or even 18K gold – like what they had done with the BB58 a couple of years ago. Nonetheless, this new Black Bay Chrono in steel and gold is still a great watch at an attractive price point.
The Tudor Black Bay Chronograph Steel & Gold on the riveted steel bracelet is priced at £5,760 and is priced at £4,760 on the distressed leather or fabric strap. For more information on visit tudorwatch.com.
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