TUDOR BB PRO - Retrospective incoming & initial thoughts

[winst]

So, last week I picked up the Tudor Black Bay Pro on Bracelet which I ordered with my local AD the day after release at Watches & Wonders. There were a couple of other guys posted they had got them last week and out of respect, I didn’t want to steal their thunder. It’s my first ever GMT watch and I felt I wanted to add one to my collection. Many thanks to Laura & Sarah at Whittles in Preston for making it happen.

I have a 6.8 inch wrist and think that 39mm is my sweet spot so tick there. Next - the thickness conundrum!!!!!!! Not a problem, sits flat on my wrist and the T-Fit adjustable clasp is excellent, I would go as far to say it is as good but better proportioned than the Glideloc on my Sub 124060. It is not top heavy so sorry to those of you who like giving the hockey puck analogy.

As excellent as the rubber strap version is though, I do think it accentuates the watches thickness whereas the bracelet makes it far less of an issue which is why I went for that version . It would be great if Vanguard brought out an integrated rubber strap, but I have already emailed them and they replied they have no plans to do so currently. A Rubber B strap would be great on it or even better an Everest strap that you could use in conjunction with the T-Fit. Sadly, unless Tudor bring out another watch with the same case, I don’t think suitable numbers will be produced to be economically viable for these specialist strap manufacturers.

The watch itself and quality - excellent. For just over £3k it is incredible value and out of all the watches including the Rolex ones I have had, it is my 19 year old son’s favourite, We both have similar sized wrists and have always loved the Explorer 2 but the last 2 versions look ridiculous on us. Is it perfect? - no of course it’s not, as Rolex will always try and hold some elements back to justify people aspiring to that next level. Which brings me to another observation - the ceramic / composite lume dots and hands: They look great during the day and low light conditions, BUT in full dark when lumed, there doesn’t seem to be as much lume material in the hour and particularly minute hand compared to my BB58 Blue. Who knows, this could become a MK1 T-Rex Equivalent as with the 214270 Explorer.




Conclusion - overall it’s definitely a keeper. I know it’s not as good as a new Explorer 2, of course it’s not - it’s over £4k cheaper. But for me personally, it does certain things better - the clasp and thus fit is better for me, it has double the water resistance although I will never need it unless a cruise ship sinks whilst I’m on it and the faux rivets on both this and the BB58 honestly don’t bother me. I acknowledge they are pointless, but aesthetically whilst looking at the watch on a daily basis I don’t find them detrimental. The other big thing for me is I feel I can wear it on a more regular basis to virtually anywhere, without a Cyclops or polished links screaming - ROLEX!!!!!!!

The key thing is, don’t listen to the comments of many people who haven’t physically tried one on. Go and see it for yourself and make up your own mind and no I am not saying this because I’m ‘settling’ for a Tudor - I like Tudor but I have several Rolex Watches as well.

Have a great weekend everyone!l

[MTdweller]

Great write up. I’ve had mine for a month now and absolutely agree - you have to try it on before passing judgment. I have it on an aftermarket NATO and it rarely isn’t on my wrist!

[winst]

Originally Posted by MTdweller

Great write up. I’ve had mine for a month now and absolutely agree - you have to try it on before passing judgment. I have it on an aftermarket NATO and it rarely isn’t on my wrist!

Thanks MT, I like wearing my watches when I sleep as well and find it really comfortable. Congratulations on a great choice of watch - probably not everyone’s cup of tea like the BB58 seems to be, but that just means those that have the BB Pro will appreciate them more.

Have a great weekend!

[cornerstore]

Great review! My thoughts as well. I have mine on rubber but I have a bracelet coming next week. Interesting to see how the bracelet looks and feels. Enjoy!

[HMHM]

I agree with most of the things you said. The only thing that drives me nuts is the faux patina that Tudor decided to use for the lume. If it was clean like the Ex2, it would be just perfect.

[winst]

Originally Posted by HMHM

I agree with most of the things you said. The only thing that drives me nuts is the faux patina that Tudor decided to use for the lume. If it was clean like the Ex2, it would be just perfect.

Attachment 1302345

Interesting observation that HMHM - I feel it is more like a modern composite offering than the original BB58 Black colouring which I really do think looks faux. Hopefully your perception will change in time.

[winst]

Originally Posted by cornerstore

Great review! My thoughts as well. I have mine on rubber but I have a bracelet coming next week. Interesting to see how the bracelet looks and feels. Enjoy!

Thanks CS - I don’t think you will be disappointed with the bracelet and clasp. Let us know how you get on!

[Triumph_1200]

Spot on review. I unexpectedly purchased one on bracelet a week ago. Was doing the watch store rounds with my brother who was visiting and the AD had one in the case. Admittedly, I was curious to see one in person (being a fan of the 1655), but certainly wasn’t jumping to make a purchase. That said, it didn’t take long to pull out the wallet after a brief period of deliberation. I’ve a similar sized wrist and concur the concerns over the proportions are subjective (read overblown) and the fit every bit as comfortable as any Rolex I’ve owned (don’t let the thickness scare you and the box crystal is really cool on this piece). As a former 216570 owner, this Tudor feels and looks more toolish to my eye (and fits me better hence it’s departure). I also like the off white lume plots. Gives a vintage feel but not quite brown as to call it fauxtina (subjective appraisal to be sure). Wear in good health, congratulations on the acquisition. Cheers and happy 4th!

[MTdweller]

Originally Posted by winst

Thanks MT, I like wearing my watches when I sleep as well and find it really comfortable. Congratulations on a great choice of watch - probably not everyone’s cup of tea like the BB58 seems to be, but that just means those that have the BB Pro will appreciate them more.

Have a great weekend!

I find I rarely take off the BB Pro these days! Funny thing is I love it more than the first day I bought it.

I understand the criticism regarding the faux patina on the hands and lume BUT it just works on this piece IMO. I absolutely love it. Glad you’re enjoying yours!

[Stevec14]

Spot on. I think it’s a terrific watch. I have mine on the nato (which IMO is the best looking version of the 3). Historically I’ve been critical of tudors slab sides and exposed case on straps, but have no issue here - it just works, as does everything about the watch IMO.

I’ve got a 321 Ed white and this shares wrist time (along with a new Tudor chrono) and it’s a struggle to take this off sometimes - it’s so comfortable.

The true gmt is a breeze to use also. For me this is one of the best value propositions on the market currently.

[Galaga167]

Originally Posted by winst

So, last week I picked up the Tudor Black Bay Pro on Bracelet which I ordered with my local AD the day after release at Watches & Wonders. There were a couple of other guys posted they had got them last week and out of respect, I didn’t want to steal their thunder. It’s my first ever GMT watch and I felt I wanted to add one to my collection. Many thanks to Laura & Sarah at Whittles in Preston for making it happen.

I have a 6.8 inch wrist and think that 39mm is my sweet spot so tick there. Next - the thickness conundrum!!!!!!! Not a problem, sits flat on my wrist and the T-Fit adjustable clasp is excellent, I would go as far to say it is as good but better proportioned than the Glideloc on my Sub 124060. It is not top heavy so sorry to those of you who like giving the hockey puck analogy.

As excellent as the rubber strap version is though, I do think it accentuates the watches thickness whereas the bracelet makes it far less of an issue which is why I went for that version . It would be great if Vanguard brought out an integrated rubber strap, but I have already emailed them and they replied they have no plans to do so currently. A Rubber B strap would be great on it or even better an Everest strap that you could use in conjunction with the T-Fit. Sadly, unless Tudor bring out another watch with the same case, I don’t think suitable numbers will be produced to be economically viable for these specialist strap manufacturers.

The watch itself and quality - excellent. For just over £3k it is incredible value and out of all the watches including the Rolex ones I have had, it is my 19 year old son’s favourite, We both have similar sized wrists and have always loved the Explorer 2 but the last 2 versions look ridiculous on us. Is it perfect? - no of course it’s not, as Rolex will always try and hold some elements back to justify people aspiring to that next level. Which brings me to another observation - the ceramic / composite lume dots and hands: They look great during the day and low light conditions, BUT in full dark when lumed, there doesn’t seem to be as much lume material in the hour and particularly minute hand compared to my BB58 Blue. Who knows, this could become a MK1 T-Rex Equivalent as with the 214270 Explorer.




Conclusion - overall it’s definitely a keeper. I know it’s not as good as a new Explorer 2, of course it’s not - it’s over £4k cheaper. But for me personally, it does certain things better - the clasp and thus fit is better for me, it has double the water resistance although I will never need it unless a cruise ship sinks whilst I’m on it and the faux rivets on both this and the BB58 honestly don’t bother me. I acknowledge they are pointless, but aesthetically whilst looking at the watch on a daily basis I don’t find them detrimental. The other big thing for me is I feel I can wear it on a more regular basis to virtually anywhere, without a Cyclops or polished links screaming - ROLEX!!!!!!!

The key thing is, don’t listen to the comments of many people who haven’t physically tried one on. Go and see it for yourself and make up your own mind and no I am not saying this because I’m ‘settling’ for a Tudor - I like Tudor but I have several Rolex Watches as well.

Have a great weekend everyone!l

One of the best write ups I’ve read in a long time. Honest and informative. It looks great on you by the way. Enjoy it in good health.

[ancientmariner]

BB pro looks great on you. Enjoy
Excellent review.
I do not get the Tudor size phobia on here. Even my Tudor big block chrono wears very comfortably on my 7.25” wrist.

Lately the balance of my small collection is swinging Tudor’s way. Love what they are doing. Wear my BB58 blue constantly at the moment. As you say, OP, these watches need to be tried on.

[Chris B]

What an excellent review, and thread, thanks for sharing fellas.

Some additional info, thoughts and close-up imagery here for those interested

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uzfFoiI8rA

Have a great weekend

[SS Oyster]

Congrats, glad you like it. My Explorer II says hi.



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[Little machines]

Great post ! I agree it's a well balanced time piece ! Congratulations! Nice looking time piece on your wrist !

[Stevec14]

For anyone else in the U.K. fraser hart in newbury have one available on bracelet at the Pre price rise price (£3,080). They are happy to take online payment and ship within the uk.

The managers name is Anu (nice lady) and let them know that Steve told you.

Btw for anyone else also interested, the bracelet is now available as special order. £540 and takes 4-6 weeks apparently (although I’d have a bet it will be here in 2)

[DoricSpiker]

Watch looks great. I love that it screams tool watch at you. A Rolex used to do that to me until the Instagram crowd got involved. Now of course they are horological masterpieces that must be had at any cost.
I will definitely check it out when I see one. Maybe today, heading up the west end shortly!


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[madgpol]

Great write up OP. I had one on my wrist the other day and it felt amazing. So tempted to get it after reading your review

[Chris B]

Originally Posted by Stevec14

For anyone else in the U.K. fraser hart in newbury have one available on bracelet at the Pre price rise price (£3,080). They are happy to take online payment and ship within the uk.

The managers name is Anu (nice lady) and let them know that Steve told you.

Btw for anyone else also interested, the bracelet is now available as special order. £540 and takes 4-6 weeks apparently (although I’d have a bet it will be here in 2)

Well played sir

[winst]

Originally Posted by Chris B

Well played sir

Indeed - damn good show that man!