Tudor have been making some stunning designs for the last few years and raising the build quality too, as they phased out the old ETA engines. The hands got sharper edges, the bezels got cleaner and the power reserves reached repsectable levels.
This new `Root Beer’ Black Bay GMT is spot-on for the modern market and frankly, makes the Watches & Wonders efforts from Rolex look a bit second division. That eye-catching bezel, the dashes of gold paintwork contrasting nicely with the black dial – it all adds up. Steel, two-tone bracelet, or black strap – either way, it’s a classy, elegant watch, not too big at 41mm across.
This is affordable for most avid watch fans too, with the leather version starting at £3320. You get a COSC level timekeeper, GMT feature and 200m depth resistance. Plus, someone will always want to buy it off you once boredom sets in.
When you compare this to the prices asked for El Primeros, TAG’s refreshed Monaco, or the price walking that Seiko are pulling with some of their Prospex Pro models, (£2800 for a Prospex? Come on) the Tudor Black Bay GMT is undeniable value for money. You have to admire them for basically holding the price steady in an inflated market.
Be honest, would you rather buy this for just over 3K or spend £5900 on an Air-King?