We wanted it, we asked for it and we got it. Tudor have now ''officially'' released a new version of the extremely popular BlackBay58 sporting a catchy new colour-way paying homage to the roots of where dive watches began for Tudor. Although images and details have been widely circulated over the last few days, we can now take a closer look at what the latest edition has to offer.
The release comes at a time when the world is finally starting to feel a little 'normal' lockdown restrictions are generally easing, although we still have along way to go, the new BB58 has shown that while the industry has taken an unprecedented plunge in recent times, its still eager to breathe new life and stimulate demand that is certainly still there. Looking back at Tudors previous releases, the BB58 is a safe bet- once again the brand listening to the community and delivering. Yes it might not follow the ''Born to Dare'' slogan that is closely tied to the brand, but who can complain? After all, the vast majority of the community were holding out to see more colour-ways on the 58 #Borntolisten! I think given the current climate, this is a smart move by Tudor, I don't blame them and after-all were sure to see more releases from them in the near future.
So lets take a closer look at the watch itself, staying with the classic 39mm proportions that everyone loves about the BB58, trademark snowflake hands, no date and an interesting matt finish navy blue dial (which I cannot wait to see in full light). This time no yellow gold finish or gilt , which I believe owes to a cleaner more contemporary finish. The snowflake handset and crown (without guards) give the perfect balance of vintage aesthetic, encompassed within a well finished case of which we are all too familiar with. Im still not sold on that riveted bracelet though... The aluminium bezel pairs with the dial to create a toned down 'Smurf' aesthetic, lets have our fingers crossed for some nice fading in years to come!
The movement utilised is the same as the original BB58, the calibre MT5402 a robust, reliable and COSC certified calibre providing the user with a 70hr power reserve. Once again Tudor playing it safe with this one, offering the customer a great value proposition with a proven in house mechanical movement. More of the tech specs available at the bottom of this article.
The BB58 'Navy' is now available at selected retailers starting at CHF3,200 for the nato/strap version or CHF3,500 with the steel bracelet. Im sure as many of you will agree this will be a popular and in-demand model for the BB58 line, Tudor once again listening to the community and its clientele. Could I see it in my personal collection? Absolutely! while the BB58 is proportionally perfect, I was personally not a fan of the gilt finish on the original, this version feels cleaner while still giving a good nod to its conception and legacy.
Technical Specifications:
Case: 39mm 316L stainless steel
Movement: COSC certified MT5402
Power reserve: 70hrs
Crystal: domed sapphire
Water resistance: 200meters
Jewels: 27
All the best, Josh
(ALL IMAGES FROM TUDOR PRESS RELEASE PACK)
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