There are some interesitng new variations from Tudor at Watches & Wonders this month. We are big fans of the Black Bay 58 as you’re getting Rolex level quality for less money. Let’s not debate the idea that Tudor is a poor man’s Rolex, because the latest watches prove that notion is plain wrong. Like Rolex, Tudor is a brand that holds a decent percentage of its initial purchase price as well, which makes them generally better investments than say Baume & Mercier, Rado, Oris, Bell + Ross, Maurice Lacroix or a Hamilton. They’re all excellent watch brands, but fashion is a fickle thing, just saying.

OK let’s feast on those new Black Bay models;

CHRONO

The motorsport themed Black Bay Chronograph is our pick of the bunch with a new 41mm case, beautiful white or black dial options, plus a COSC grade calibre inside. 200m depth rating is respectable, likewise a 70 hour power reserve is Rolex standard and then there’s the 5 year guarantee. The cheapest way into the new Black Bay Chrono family is the fabric strap variant at £3360, but we say splash the cash for the steel bracelet model at £3900, in white with black sub-dials. It just looks right, a classic right out of the box.

58 GREEN

Yes, we like a Rolex Sub Hulk, as geniuses choose green and all that jive. But the Black Bay 58 in 18ct matte effect gold really hits the spot. Again 200m depth, a nice 39mm case size that suits many a wrist and that chuncky solid gold winding crown too. This is luxury that doesn’t shout Kardashian bling in your face, and we think it’s all the better for that restraint. Just over £12,600 for this one.

58 SILVER

Now you don’t see many sterling silver wristwatches for men, except vintage pocket watches of course. Vive le difference we say and good to see taupe make a comeback as a colour after that 1980s wallpaper craze, remember dado rails anyone? It’s a laidback looker this one, with the same 200m, 39mm case and 5 year guarantee spec you know and love. COSC movement naturally. Choice of straps in leather or fabric. £3230 for the fabric option model.

There are new Black Bay 32 and 36 models too, which offer a relatively low cost price point at just under two grand for the fabric strap 36. There is also a retro 1926 model with a 41mm case size, and brown leather strap that we reckon offers a restrained take on those classic 1950s waffle dial gents watches of old. Calibre T601 inside the case and just £1780 RRP. Hard to fault even though that is a jazzed up ETA 2824 engine in there.

More info at Tudor’s website.