Tudor Watches: 2023 Collection Overview

Miles_151 · 2023-01-23T14:43:27Z

Explore the Tudor Pelagos FXD with collector Miles_151. Discover its unique fixed spring bars, titanium build, and vintage-inspired pastel blue dial. A deep dive into Tudor's innovative dive watch.

Miles_151

WPS member · Rolex forum

34 replies6565 views2 photos

Miles_151 shares his initial impressions of the Tudor Pelagos FXD, a watch that quickly became a favorite in his collection. His post highlights the watch's unique aesthetic and functional attributes, drawing parallels to vintage military specifications. This article explores why the FXD resonates with collectors, particularly those who appreciate Tudor's commitment to innovation and historical references.

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Following my find a few weeks ago of my 79220b which I’d been looking for for a while they say watches can be like buses. Wait for a while then they all come at once. Well I wasn’t expecting the call I had from my AD on Friday saying that my FXD had arrived early.
So having decided to add an FXD to my collection I did so before it won Diver of the year at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève 2022.
I know it is early days but I really have to say even having only worn it for 3 days now I absolutely love it.
The size and proportions on my wrist are perfect for me. The colour of the dial and Bezel is so different it’s a pastel blue which for me gives a vintage feel.
The weight being titanium is on the light side but you still know it’s on your wrist. The technical specification speaks for itself at this price point as does the history between MN and Tudor. I love the fixed spring bars and owning a Mil sub it gives the same vibe.
So for me this watch gives the perfect Mil spec with a vintage vibe feel and I can see is going to be regularly worn by me as more and more I am becoming paranoid about safety with so many robberies in the UK and abroad.
Tudor are doing so well at listening to collectors and daring to be risky in their creations. This at a time when we all are made to feel so grateful to be able to even buy anything from Rolex.
Well done Tudor I look forward to seeing your releases this year.
M.

About the Rolex Black Bay Ref. 79220B

The Tudor Black Bay reference 79220B is a significant model within the Black Bay line, representing an early iteration of the modern Black Bay dive watch. It is distinguished by its blue bezel and dial, offering a distinct aesthetic compared to the more common black or burgundy variants. This reference helped establish the Black Bay as a cornerstone of Tudor's contemporary collection, blending historical design elements with modern watchmaking.

This model features a 41mm stainless steel case with a polished and satin finish. It is powered by the ETA 2824 automatic movement, known for its reliability and serviceability, providing a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 200 meters. The unidirectional rotating bezel is anodized aluminum, and the dial features luminescent hour markers and hands.

For collectors, the 79220B is notable as one of the last Black Bay references to utilize an outsourced ETA movement before Tudor transitioned to in-house calibers across much of the Black Bay range. This makes it a point of interest for those who appreciate the earlier production runs and the specific characteristics associated with the ETA-powered models. Its blue coloration also offers a unique appeal within the broader Black Bay family.

Specifications

Caliber: ETA 2824

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 41mm

Dial: Blue

Water Resist.: 200m

Crystal: Domed Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The fixed spring bars on the Pelagos FXD necessitate specific strap types, primarily NATO-style straps, similar to how Rolex Mil-Subs were designed for the Ministry of Defence.
The Pelagos FXD's fixed spring bar design means that only NATO-style straps will fit, as the bars are non-removable and welded into the case.
Some collectors have explored alternative strap retention methods for fixed lugs, such as riveted leather or specialized screw-in pins, though NATO straps remain the most common and accessible solution.
The Pelagos FXD, despite its titanium construction, maintains a noticeable presence on the wrist, offering a comfortable yet substantial feel.
The pastel blue dial and bezel of the Pelagos FXD contribute to a distinct vintage aesthetic, setting it apart from other contemporary dive watches.
The Pelagos FXD's appeal lies in its blend of military specifications and vintage design cues, making it a compelling choice for collectors seeking a robust and distinctive timepiece.

The Discussion

dms

Jan 23, 2023

Congrats in securing this beauty. Is it a MN23? I'm still expecting mine to be delivered: the waiting is getting difficult to handle after 6 months now...

Miles_151

Jan 23, 2023

I’m sure you will get your call from the AD soon. Yes mine was a MN23 which I was surprised at as it was so early in 2023 delivered. I guess they have a cut off in 2022 production when they become 23’s. I was told there were no more MN22’s available anywhere and trust me I tried to get a MN 21 from Tudor but no chance. I can tell you though they are worth the wait. Much more me than the Pelagos 39mm Good luck and I look forward to seeing your wrist shots. M.

grigo

Jan 23, 2023

Defiantly worth the wait.

Miles_151

Jan 23, 2023

It takes a lot to excite me these days. All the craziness and hype of some brands has always bored me stupid. Tudor are innovative, daring and achievable. What more do you want???? M.

Miles_151

Jan 23, 2023

It was and you sir have good taste. M.

Miles_151

Jan 23, 2023

Thank you my friend I will try my best. M.

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About the Rolex Black Bay Ref. 79220B

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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