First introduced in Baselworld 2016, the Tudor Black Bay Bronze ignited the imaginations of the watch collecting cognoscenti. Though slightly larger than the highly sought after “Explorer dial” submariner, a rare variant of the 5513 reference, the “Explorer dial” refers to the Arabic numerals at the 3, 6, 9 cardinal points, so named for the dial of the Rolex Explorer it became synonymous with.

That same year, the 43mm Black Bay Bronze with “faded” brown bezel and dial, took home the GPHG “Petite Aiguille” prize. Since then the Black Bay Bronze has enjoyed blue Bucherer editions and for Baselworld 2019, Tudor introduces the Black Bay Bronze with slate grey dial and bezel.

New Tudor Black Bay Bronze with Slate Grey Dial and Bezel for Baselworld 2019

The modern heritage of the Black Bay Bronze continues with the contemporary tradition of stabilised bronze – an aluminium bronze alloy distinct from other watchmaking bronze alloys which mixes copper with a bit of tin. What results is a Black Bay Bronze which turns “chocolatey” rather than a mouldy shade of green. For Baselworld 2019, Tudor introduces a new Black Bay Bronze with slate grey colour palette which enhances the dial and bezel with a high contrast and sophisticated colourway of gold and grey – hence it’s a tool watch which embodies naval inspiration but also a largish if dressy iteration which looks great in a smart casual ensemble.

The combination of a slate-grey dial with barely perceived “blink and you miss it” smoked effect with a bezel punctuated with gold accents found on the hands and hour markers completes the new Black Bay Bronze’s overall functional appearance; all ensconced within a “living” metal which evolves with your lifestyle and daily usage.

Beneath the surface beats the heart of the Black Bay series’ biggest calibre, the COSC certified Manufacture Calibre MT5601 with 70 hours power reserve, wound by its satin-brushed  openwork rotor with sand-blasted details. The calibre itself is industrially finished with its bridges and plate featuring alternating polished sand-blasted surfaces and laser decorations.

Also returning is the historic strap made of elastic recovered from French rescue parachutes. A recognisable functional element of the iconic Tudor Black Bay Bronze thanks to its recognisable gold-coloured thread or should a more formal look be required – swopped out for an aged black leather strap whose straight cut accentuates the rustic effect.

Black Bay Bronze with Slate Grey Dial and Bezel Price and Specs

Movement Automatic Manufacture Calibre MT5601 with 70 hours power reserve
Case 43mm bronze case with 200 metres water resistance
Strap woven jacquard NATO or Leather
Price On Application