Review
Jocke - Bad Santa's detailed photo essay on the Tudor Heritage Black Bay Ref. 79220R offers a crucial look at a watch that quickly became a modern classic. His early 2013 review captures the initial reception and design nuances of this significant release, providing valuable context for understanding its enduring appeal and impact on the watch market. This article synthesizes community reactions, highlighting both admiration and critical observations that shaped its early perception.
Tudor Heritage Black Bay Ref 79220R
It comes in a plain outer box of white cardboard.
Inside this there is a brown inner box.
A really nice piano lacquered wood box.
That feels really lavish covered with a leather-like material. Holder, tag, warranty card and manual, it is in as well.
Even a nylon strap Tudor has been generous to attach the in box.
This model is a mishmash of previous models of Tudor but nevertheless its own model and it belongs to the then conveniently Heritage family. Hands and indexsurroundings is made
of gold and gold text on the dial gives a sober impression. The black matte dial provides a good contrast to the hands, indexes and cremé coloured luminova.
The red bezel insert gives the watch a real lift, I think, 60 clicks model bezel that rotates counterclockwise with distinct positions. The case is 41 mm without crown.
A moderately domed sapphire crystal gives the watch a height of approximately 13 mm.
A screw-down crown that is very easy to unlock and adjust the watch. The watch is rated for 200 meters which it surely pass with a wide margin considering the construction.
A decorated ETA 2824 needs no major presentation, works well in all weather and it can be serviced at the most watchmakers at a reasonable affordable cost.
Picture borrowed from Tudor's website.
I went for the model with leather strap.
Which comes with a really neat folding clasp.
The clasp works really good on the wrist, which not many folding clasp makes, I think.
Lavish with ceramic balls holding the security lock in place.
Really nicely with the milled grooves on the sides that are visible through the security lock.
It is also available with a stainless steel bracelet.
I order that too.
Solid and strong with screwed links, unfortunately no dive extension link and only three adjustment positions.
A nice clasp here also with ceramic balls.
Solid endlinks.
Here you get an impression of the contrast of the matte dial and the hands and index's.
The Luminova do a great work.
Lights sharp and goes quickly.
Double lume.
Overall, a really interesting model in the right size that is affordable at the same time together with the Pelagos raise Tudor as a brand to a higher level, I think.
Jocke
This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2013-01-11 00:18:27 This message has been edited by amanico on 2013-01-11 22:06:59The Tudor Heritage Black Bay Ref. 79220R represents the inaugural release of the Heritage Black Bay line, launched in 2012. This model was instrumental in re-establishing Tudor's identity as a manufacturer of robust and historically-inspired tool watches, drawing heavily on design cues from its dive watch heritage while forging a distinct path from its parent company.
This reference features a 41mm stainless steel case with a polished and satin finish, housing the ETA 2824 self-winding mechanical movement. It is characterized by its burgundy unidirectional rotating bezel, gilt accents on the matte black dial, and 'snowflake' hands. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown, ensuring water resistance. It was offered on either a stainless steel bracelet or a distressed leather strap, often accompanied by an additional fabric strap.
For collectors, the 79220R holds significance as the first iteration of the highly successful Black Bay series, notable for its ETA-based movement before the transition to in-house calibers. Its unique 'smiley' dial text and rose logo on the crown further distinguish it as a first-generation model, making it a key piece for those interested in the evolution of modern Tudor.
or your pics make it even more beautiful? The Black Bay is a very tempting watch at a reasonnable price. Thanks a lot for this in-depth presentation supported by stunning pics as usual. Fx
If only it didn't have this red ring around the crown... If only its case was a tad less thick... If only there wasn't such a mismatch in the design of the dial, with incorrect hands, and these circled indexes... If only I didn't know the original models which inspired Tudor for this one ( 94010 / 7922 or 24 )... I would have jumped on it, because of the perceived quality of the watch, because of its character, because of its price.... Best, Jocke, and thanks for this great article. Nicolas
Great photos Jocke! Looks awesome with your leather jacket! I'm starting to think this is a great addition to anyone's collection for a rugged slightly vintage look. Certainly something that's easy to coordinate with stylistically. Really like the watch!
As the world wide ambassador. Great review and pictures. Thanks Bill
Thanks for a really good review on this watch, Jocke. I typically go past the Tudor stands but just from reading this review, I am going to check it out in the metal today. Great write up and beautiful pictures! Richard
After reading this....I would seriously have a look at the Black Bay. I've always wondered if the hands and hour markers are made of gold. Your confirmation makes this watch more appealing to me. Wonderful pictures as usual
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