In 2017, Tudor introduced David Beckham as a brand ambassador. For his first appearance, he wore the brand’s new two-tone Heritage Black Bay S&G (steel & gold) watch. While two-tone watches have a rich history in watchmaking, Rolex popularised the concept of contrasting materials. Tudor’s big brother is, arguably, the world’s most recognisable purveyor and horological alchemist of combining steel and precious metals. However, this new aesthetic provoked polarisation among watch lovers – to younger people, the two-tone felt like the domain of an older generation. That Beckham, a man who appeals to very different demographics, was positioned with the S&G model was clearly well-thought out.

As for that older generation, the two-tone watch was a “flaunt but not too much” compromise – key a step before the overpowering flamboyance that is full gold. For BaselWorld 2019, Tudor has gently but affirmatively shifted the two-tone needle towards the millennials by way of the new Black Bay Chrono S&G.

The new Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is the brand’s first two-tone chronograph. Remaining faithful to the aquatic heritage of the popular Black Bay collection yet carrying the sporty-chic aesthetics of a modern chronograph, the latest Black Bay Chrono is probably the most successful attempt to bridge the generational gulf between the watch connoisseur. Gold, snailed chronograph subdials provide refined yet optimum readability against the backdrop of a domed matt-black dial. Meanwhile, the box sapphire of the Black Bay Chrono, framed by the black bezel with gold accents, constraints its exuberance ever so lightly.

The 41mm Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G sports a date aperture at 6 o’clock, like its predecessor, and bears other functional features such as screw down pushers inspired by first generation Tudor chronographs. Snowflake hands complete the overall aesthetic of the latest Black Bay Chrono, firmly placing the 2019 timekeeper in the Black Bay collection.

Developed from the joint-project manufacture chronograph calibre Breitling 01, Tudor’s very own Calibre MT5813 is a COSC-certified column wheel chronograph movement with vertical clutch as well as the brand’s own in-house innovations and expertise. The resulting 2019 Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is a blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary watchmaking – a neo-classical chronograph in the making.

Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G Price & Specs

Movement Automatic calibre MT5813 with 70 hours power reserve
Case 41 mm stainless steel case with 200 metres water resistance
Strap Steel Bracelet, Leather or rubber
Price From US$5600