Hands-On Review: Tudor Black Bay Chrono Blue
The Tudor Black Bay line combines vintage charm and modern craftsmanship. The Black Bay Chrono Blue plays into both, presenting the functionally modern BB Chrono with a blue twist, one that harkens back to the blue Tudor Submariners of the late 1960s. After spending some time with the watch, I'm eager to share more about it.
First Impressions
At first sight, the Black Bay Chrono Blue immediately draws your attention with its striking blue dial and bezel. While new to the Black Bay Chrono, this blue hue pays homage to Tudors of the past, namely the blue Submariners beginning in 1969. You'll find a similar blue on various modern Tudors (e.g. the Pelagos), but the Chrono Blue has a sinburst dial finish, giving it a whole different visual quality.
Aside from its new color and 5-link bracelet, the Chrono Blue is essentially identical to prior models, including the iconic snowflake hands reminiscent of Tudor’s dive watch heritage. I find this hand motif to pair beautifully with a sporty two-register chronograph layout. Those silver subdials provide ecxellent contrast to the dial's vibrant blue color.
The Movement
Image Source: Tudor
The Chrono Blue is equipped with the same chronograph movement as the other watches in the Black Bay Chrono family: the Manufacture Calibre MT5813, based on the Breitling B01. This movement is the result of Tudor's partnership with Breitling and provides precision, a 70-hour power reserve, and COSC certification. The MT5813 is a vertical clutch column wheel chronograph movement, meaning the activated chronograph function neither introduces extra wear on the movement nor detracts additional power from the power reserve.
Design & Wearability
The Black Bay Blue Chrono has a 41mm stainless steel case that has a strong presence without being too bulky. Like the recent Black Bay Chrono Pink (and various other recent Black Bay Models) It is equipped with Tudor's new 5-link bracelet with T-Fit clasp, which we are big fans of because of the tool-free adjustments.
For added comfort and style, the Black Bay Chrono (in any color) looks great on an Everest Rubber Strap, offering a secure fit perfect for everyday wear and adventures alike. With 200-meter water resistance and screw-down pushers, this chronograph is ready for anything you throw at it.
Final Thoughts
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono Blue expertly combines heritage and modern functionality. Whether you're you're seeking a reliable chronograph or you're just a sucker for a blue dial, this timepiece is ideal for those who value vintage design and modern craftsmanship.
Tudor Black Bay Chrono Blue Specs (M79360B-0002)
Case Size: 41mm
Lug Width: 22mm
Case Thickness: 14.4mm
Lug-to-Lug: 51.3mm
Movement: Manufacture Calibre MT5813 (Breitling B01 base)
Power Reserve: 70 Hours
Certifications: COSC-Certified Chronometer
Leave a comment