Two weeks with the Tudor Black Bay

[KarlTheToyotaGuy]

I recently did an "initial impressions" review after two days with my Black Bay, figured I'd do a two week review. This time I'm actually using a keyboard so hopefully I'll be a bit more eloquent .... the only problem is I am quite drunk at the moment. Here goes!

Short: It's cool. Get one.


Performance: After two weeks, it's losing about 1/2 second per day. Not bad for Tudor's new in-house movement!

Wearability: No complaints. With the new Black Bay, it is a bit of a chunky diver, no question about it. I haven't had any snagging or grabbing issues, just keep in mind it is a taller watch. My left cuff is also fit for anything up to a DSSD, the BBN fits with no issues



There were a couple moments where I wondered if it was too tall, until I made a comparison. My "gym" watch is a Smiths Everest. The Everest is a really cool tribute piece that I really enjoy. Upsized oyster style case, and even a domed plexi crystal!



I wore this thing daily for quite a bit, and never once thought it was too tall. Side by side, they're the same height! No questions since!



As for the case itself hugs the wrist very well. The caseback isn't too proud from the case, and lends the Black Bay to sitting flush with the case on the wrist. Chamfers are very cleanly cut, sides well polished, and the brushing on the case and bracelet are excellent.

The bezel action is awesome. It's 60 click function locks up like a tank, and it very, very positive with every minute rotation.

I really like the aluminum insert with the red triangle. It's a badass throwback to the older 7922's.

LUME!:



Illumination is great! Hell, one second of sunlight, and the lume even starts popping in the shade outside!!


Tudor has really executed this dial well. It seems to be composed of about ten different shades of black and gray, dependent on ambient lighting.







The dial printing, gilt ring, creamish/ivory markers, text, all very well done .... to the naked eye.

One complaint: the bracelet/clasp. I would like more adjustability. A glidelock or traditional flip lock diver’s extension would be swell, but I would settle for another micro-adjustment pin notch or two. Three points of adjustment leaves a bit to be desired.

On the other hand, the bracelet is another real cool throwback with the faux rivets, but with the modern screwed links thrown in towards the clasp.

Both the clasp and the lock use ceramic ball detents. No issues. No imminent concerns for durability nor longevity.

The slightly domed crystal is a great touch and adds to the “vintage” throwback of the Black Bay. Were it flush, I don’t believe it would have the same aesthetic appeal, nor the same durability.

Again, time will tell as to the new Tudor in-house movement, but I believe the Black Bay will be around for a bit.

Cheers!