Watches and Wonders
Live Images: Tudor Impresses with the New Pelagos Ultra and Black Bay 68 Collection at Watches and Wonders
With two entirely new model lines – the Pelagos Ultra and the Black Bay 68 – Tudor improves its catalog with enhanced performance and fresh options.
By Henri Lee
Contributor
Known for its diverse product offerings and relatively accessible pricing, Tudor is consistently among the most popular brands among watch collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. After seeing its latest introductions at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, it’s clear why.
And while a new case size or bracelet option alone might excite some fans, the brand delivered far more. Here’s what makes Tudor tick this year.
The All-New Pelagos Ultra
The Tudor Pelagos takes its name from the Greek word “pelagos,” meaning “sea” or “open sea.” It’s a fitting title for a professional dive watch, evoking the vastness, depth, and adventurous spirit of the ocean.
In fact, Tudor designed previous Pelagos models specifically for serious diving, with water resistance ratings of either 200 or 500 meters. Now, with the introduction of the Pelagos Ultra, Tudor has raised the bar significantly by doubling the water resistance to an impressive 1,000 meters.
The Pelagos Ultra’s enlarged titanium case measures 43mm by 14.5mm, features a satin finish, and includes a helium escape valve. The dial’s readability has also seen substantial enhancements, with larger hands and hour markers illuminated by both blue and green luminescence for superior underwater visibility.
Inside the Pelagos Ultra watch beats the in-house calibre MT5612-U, a METAS-certified Master Chronometer boasting a 65-hour power reserve. Meanwhile, its robust titanium three-link bracelet incorporates Tudor’s “T-fit” folding clasp, a safety catch, and a diver’s extension equipped with a new visual indicator system.
Unquestionably, the Pelagos Ultra ($5,950) now stands as the flagship model of Tudor’s diving watch lineup.
Black Bay 58 in Burgundy
While the Pelagos collection emphasizes functionality and performance, the Black Bay line leans toward vintage aesthetics and includes various complications.
Initially introduced with a 41mm case, the Black Bay was later joined by the smaller Black Bay 58, which had a 39mm case. And as the years have passed, the Black Bay 58 has been available in several dial colors, including blue, black, gray, and green.
This week, Tudor introduced an eye-catching new Black Bay 58 with a fully burgundy dial and a matching burgundy bezel.
Tudor describes this model as ideal for those who want to “make a statement.” Indeed, this deep, rich shade of red evokes warmth, comfort, and intellectual depth. Additionally, this new Black Bay 58 features Master Chronometer certification, meeting the industry’s highest standards for precision and reliability.
The Black Bay 58 in burgundy has three bracelet options: a black rubber strap ($4,275), a three-link “rivet-style” steel bracelet ($4,500), and a five-link steel bracelet ($4,600).
All-New Black Bay 68
Also unveiled this week is the completely new Black Bay 68, offered in a 43mm case with two fresh color combinations.
Created the Black Bay 68 to satisfy demand for additional case sizes, the name “68” commemorates the year 1968, which was the year Tudor adopted its iconic Snowflake hand, an important milestone in the brand’s heritage.
Powered by the in-house caliber MT5601-U, a Master Chronometer-certified movement, the Black Bay 68 boasts an impressive 70-hour power reserve. Each priced at $4,700, the new Black Bay 68 is available in Tudor’s iconic blue dial with a sun-brushed finish or an elegant silver dial (also with a sun-brushed finish).
Black Bay Pro with Opaline Dial
Added to the brand’s catalog in 2022, the Black Bay Pro is Tudor’s rugged model designed for adventure and travel, featuring a practical GMT function.
This year, the brand has added three new models to the collection featuring an opaline dial meant to enhance readability. These attractive new models offer a fresh aesthetic option and remind us of the Rolex Explorer II.
With all three coming in a 39mm steel case, the Black Bay Pro with an opaline dial has three strap options: a hybrid rubber and leather strap ($4,050), a black fabric strap with a yellow stripe ($4,050), and a three-link steel bracelet ($4,375).
Black Bay Chrono on 3-link or 5-link Bracelet
Among the Black Bay Chrono collection are the distinctive “Panda” and “Reverse Panda” models, previously available only with a 3-link steel and gold rivet-style bracelet.
To enhance the collection’s versatility, Tudor has now introduced an elegant 5-link steel option ($5,875) and the 3-link rivet-style bracelet in steel only ($5,775) for both models.
For more detailed information, check out Tudor’s website.