Review
Subexplorer's post captures the initial reception of the Tudor Black Bay, a watch that sparked considerable debate upon its 2012 introduction. His personal journey from skepticism to appreciation, heavily influenced by fellow collector Jocke's photography, offers a relatable perspective on how a modern watch with vintage cues can win over traditionalists.
Yes, after viewing many times all your posts and photographs about the Black Bay Tudor, I was convinced I needed to get one for myself!
Since its introduction about a year ago, this diving watch aroused mixed emotions in my heart.
As a matter of fact, I came to the conclusion that you could view it from two different points of view:
One if you view it as a remake, an homage or a direct desdendant of th classic no crown guards Tudor Submariners of the past, you could be disappointed, or worst, if you were to put it side by side with one of those originals to compare them, you could get to hate it. I feel very few modern day watches based in classic originals, truly reflect or mantain the spirit of those watches they try to follow. The Black Bay is not one of them.
Then, there is a second approach:
You can view it as a modern made and designed divers watch, with some winks at the past, which are very pleasing to me: the bronze colored markings and minute track (gilt?), the comeback of the Tudor Rose as their emblem, the "rotor self-winding" inscription in reference to the automatic movement, the use of lug bevels.
I begun viewing this watch critically as in the first approach, and gradually changed to see it with the second one. A little later I discovered I liked it, and that eventually would buy it.
Then came the various posts and great photos of Jocke showing the watch so beautifully as he always does. I loved those pictures!
Last week end, I had the chance of trying on my wrist one of the very first (and few) examples just arived to my Country, at one of the local AD Rolex/Tudor watch shops.
I was hooked! And a very attractive price given by my old friend who happens to own said watch shop, and had invited me to view it, convinced to take the plunge on the spot.
I have been wearing my new Tudor for a few days now, and I like it very much.
Certainly, I would rather preferred that designers of this model would have adopted the Mercedes hour hand, instead of the "snow flake" one, and that the case were more flat. Not to mention that I can´t understand the "red washer" under the crown. Anyway, I like how it looks on my wrist.
It is a very well made watch, with excellent polishing and overall finish. It is accurate and strong. It is not a Submariner Tudor like those of the past, but a brand new Tudor Black Bay, a completely new model, with a few touches which lightly reminds me that classic. It works nicely for me!
I just wished to share these feelings with you. Best cordial regards, Abel.
I, too, when first saw the design, had a lot of mixed feeling about it... It was of course exciting to hear that Tudor was going to remake their big crown, as I'm such a big fan of the vintage big crowns by rolex and tudor But when I first saw the photos, I was shocked because they made it with red insert and red ring underneath the crown So I decided to wait until I saw one in metal... It was much better than it was in the photo... The combination works... Red color, gold hands - gilt color pri
I saw it at the Roissy Airport, by the way, and well, I still have my doubts, but for the one who is not obsessed by the historical background, yes, this is a cool watch. Bravo! Un abrazo, Amigo. Nicolas
It is true that this site is both addictive and invasive on the pocket book. But what better way to enjoy the spoils of life. Wear it in good health. Best Bill
... and I´m glad you share my points of view around this watch. Indeed Jocke´s photography is fantastic and inspiring, and makes the objects he shoots so charming you wish to run to get one. I send my best cordial regards, Abel.
... I wish you are enjoying your trip so much. You said it so well: this is a cool watch, and I feel that cool is the best word to describe it. And to get to like it, means we have to forget the link to the past. That´s not easy for lovers of vintage Rolex/Tudor watches, but as you well say, it can work if one is not obsessed with its prestigious origins. You know that for "safety reasons" I have a lot of restrictions for wearing a costly vintage daily, in the places I work and carry on my dutie
... It´s true, this site is Very addicitive. I can confirm that many purchases made in the last two years were induced by the seductive photographs and passionate writings from our friends here. Jockes photographs are of course, something incredible. You never get bored of watching a picture again and again. Those devoted to the Black Bay in particular, were just mesmerizing! Thank you again Bill!, and receive my best cordial regards, Abel.
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