Watching this video while wearing this actual watch. Thanks Bruce, agree with your thoughts 100%, and 100% convinced I want one despite the negatives. When a watch speaks to you, answering is a must.
I myself am wearing a Black Bay Red as I’m texting you. Love it! No issues. I’m actually waiting on a Tudor NATO strap that matches the watch colors down to the red wine color. Can’t wait. I also ordered the Rubber strap by Tudor also. The 2other Tudors I love is the Tiger Chrono and the GMT version.
Can someone answer a question for me? I recently got one of these in blue and I thought it was strange that the fabric strap it came with was red. I assumed that the blue would come with a blue strap and the red one with a red strap but in this video, the red version comes with a blue strap. Have I gotten wrong? Could you choose a colour strap when we’re able to buy these? I thought that maybe the guy the previous owner bought it from put a random Tudor strap in the box when he sold it to make it a “full set” 🤷♂️
Nice review! I've had my Black Bay Red for 2 years now and it's definitely a great watch. For me the lack of a date window was actually a plus, as most other watches I have has a date window. I really like the look of this dial without a date. I'm not sure if you knew, since it wasn't pointed out in your video, but the bezel, in addition to having very nice action, has a nice trick that I haven't seen on any other dive watch. If you spin the bezel at a constant rate without looking at it, you should feel the bezel click resistance increase when the pip reaches the 12 o'clock position. This means you can "reset" the bezel pip pretty easily by feel without having to looking at it. Pretty cool little hidden feature of this watch.
I did not know that about the bezel! That is awesome, going to try that out tonight. Like you, I think it's nice to have a variety of movements and complications or lack therof in this case. Makes it fun to change it up throughout the week. Congrats on yours of two years, cheers man
Superb review, Bruce! I've seen a lot of reviews for this BB, but the details, macro shots, info and different (amazing) locations you've displayed took it to another level. I'm still in love with this piece since I got it (about 3 months ago). It really competes with my other watches (specially the divers), but this - and the Sumo - takes the major 'wrist time'. Greetings from Rio, Brazil!
Great review! I currently have 3 Black Bays - Blue and Black ETA + Steel. They are absolutely fantastic watches. On the Time-only ETAs I simply rotate the bezel to point to the date when I'm not timing something. Works like a charm.
Great camera work, Bruce. I enjoyed your review and your passion for watches. I'm just getting into watches at 46. I bought a Hamilton Pilot 46mm with an ETA 2836-2 movement as my first automatic. Great watch Btw. Now I'm craving luxury and I'm considering a Tutor BB or a Rolex Sub as my first diver / sports watch.That Tutor is looking even better now after that review. Thanks again!
You've got yourself a new fan! I'm expected to get mine tomorrow and I am so excited! Much like yours mine will be identical as I too got the ETA version! Great review friend, looking forward to more content!
Outstanding and detailed review, Bruce and also really well made shooting and scenes. I really enjoyed it. Thank you. Keep up the good work. Best regards, Fabio.
Bruce probably the best review I've seen of this watch,very well thought out and unbiased,it's a good point about the anti glare glass hasn't really bothered me as yet as for the date I've found it nice not having one as the dial is face has such a good look about it,also the eta debate as you mentioned the 2824 with the Tudors own personal touch makes it special and over seven days only loses 2 sec,I'm keeping mine and it will probably be given to my son in the future,I'm hooked just ordered the bronze !
That's awesome, congrats! I saw the review Paul Thorpe in the UK did on it and it looks amazing over the video, I'm excited for you. Thanks for the nice comment
Regarding the date, did Tudor remove the date setting position from the 2824 movement? Is there only hand winding and time setting positions with nothing in between?
Excellent review! I'm glad to hear that you will be comparing the ETA version with the new in-house movement version. This watch is on my list -- I just don't know which version I should purchase. Thanks again for the great work you do on your channel.
Thanks Steven, I appreciate that. I wish I could have a new one in hand but that won't be possible. I'll just speak and contrast the two, weigh the pros and cons and drop in a lot of photos. Cheers
A very well thought out review on the burgundy black bay 79220R, I love the one with ETA2824 which I think is more collectible because they don't make it anymore and the dial looks fantastic and the bracelet also looks better than the newly release 79230R
Jesus, I'm not even ashamed of my elabore grade ETA in some of my other pieces including a few steinys.. They have been work horses for me for me and I have 0 complaints..
+Bruce Williams ya, I used to think similarly, then looked at how long I've been going service free on some of mine(6-7yrs). I try not to get caught up in the forums/TH-cam bashing now a days and take most with a grain of salt.. I find people tend to focus on the few bad experiences..
Why would one be ashamed of owning watches with ETA movement? I would be ashamed of paying 3 thousand dollars to repair an in-house movement, just to say I have a watch with an in-house movement
Great review! I love your attention to detail. Very informative. I was thinking of getting one of these, but ended up getting the Oris Divers 65 due to it's slimmer profile.
The original and in my opinion the best iteration of this watch. They are a steal on the secondary market compared to the new models. I much prefer the uncluttered dial with the Rotor - Self Winding text.
Date? Hahaha I don't follow nor care about a date complication in a watch anymore. I am retired 😂😂😂, best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico. BTW, love your reviews.
Great review I got a blue one last week, I was worried about it being a bit big or thick but it’s really not, infact the eta I have is pretty thin for a diver and sits perfect on the wrist!
Nice review. I think the pre-owned prices are going to go lower as the new ones are released. I think it could be a great opportunity for me to buy one. I personally like this version more. Over time these may become more valuable, but that's anyone's guess. There are aspects about the newer movement that will make the new version worth more. However, I believe way too much emphasis is put on the movement, and how it relates to value. A watch, to me, is all about the case, dial, hands, attention to details, etc, before you even get to the movement. When you consider what Tudor has done to the movement, it's worth it.
This is a great comment. I hope your able to find a great price should you decide the model is for you. I certainly have zero problems with this era version but I do admit I am a little envious of the silicon hairspring, free sprung balance, and 3 day power reserve in the new ones. I think your spot on
Thanks man. It's actually really sad. I flipped almost all my efforts to get serious about saving for a Grail. I only have the skx009 and this Tudor. Seiko and Tudor/Rolex are my favorite brands
What a lovely watch. I'm with you on enjoying seeing all those interesting details. May be a future purchase - the pre-owned prices seem quite good. Nice fair review pointing positives and negatives. Cheers, John
I don't know what to think of the rose gold markers, hands and minute track. It gives the watch a certain vintage look, but it seems a little bit out of place. In the case design it's easy to see the family resemblance with the Submariner. I understand that an in-house movement appeals more to the imagination, but the topgrade version of the ETA2824 is a very respected movement which is extra decorated and regulated by Tudor. This version will give a lot of inhouse made movements a run for their money.
Ali Bakhit thank you. I think the bronze is awesome but it's too big. I think they should have kept it at the standard 41mm size. LHD is really cool. It's getting hate online but I think it's a home run.
Nice review. I was in love with the Black Bay Black until I tried it on. Just a little too big and chunky for my wrist. Looks good on yours though. I really like the guilt dial and Tudor Rose.
I do think BB is a value watch. However, I am a little sad you let go of the MM300. But, a collectors got to move on at times. Look forward to your next video champ!
New prices at an AD are about $3600 and you might be able to negotiate up to 10 percent discount. I bought mine pre owned from a friend in the low $2000s. The watchuseek forums are a good place to look for preowned ones. Chrono24 and eBay are also worthy of a look.
I'm going to do a video on it within the next couple weeks. My short answer opinion is: the In House version is superior. But the ETA version is a good investment
+Bruce Williams I like the first gen better, I like the layout of the dial and the "rose"... and call me crazy but I think the ETA it's going to be a future collectable.
+daltonjr definitely not crazy man, I think it will get there. Everyone says black because of the shorter production length but I lean towards the blue being the most collectible. It seems to be the clear favorite on the forums and groups.
OK Rolex and Tudor. these watches are just too beautiful. Black Bay Maroon, Rolex Air King, or Exlporer. rolex Oyster. I think my next watch will be the tudor, I will hang onto my 34mm air king.
Good review which is all about the watch not like other reviews that they need to put their face in the camera for half an hour before they actually show the watch!! I hate that and I switch them off
Hey Bruce. Great review! This watch has been on my shortlist for sometime now. I keep debating between the Black Bay and the SMPc. My most pressing concern for the Black Bay is the size, both the height and the span of the lugs. I believe our wrist size is quite similar, so could I ask whether or not the size was ever a concern for you as you spent considerable time with this watch? Thanks in advance. Looking forward to the next video.
Thanks Adam. I love the smpc. Got a friend who recently bought one and I've handled them in the store. Its not helpful but you cant go wrong with either, especially since they are similarly priced. I love the ceramics, gloss, and chronometer certification of the Omega. I love the tapering bracelet, heritage styling, and bezel action of the Tudor. Only thing I don't like about the Omega is the helium release crown, and the fact the 2500d movement is not 4 hz. Id say see if you can try them on side by side, and take several pics. Think it over and buy the one you think you would enjoy more or be more comfortable with. Both are very strong entry level luxury divers. Lastly to answer your question, I find the BB to be comfortable, no issues with its size or weight
Awesome. I agree there really is no "bad' choice with either, which is probably why the decision has become so difficult. Good to hear you had no issues with the size, that helps a lot, no doubt I will attempt to try them on in person eventually. I really appreciate your response. Thanks again.
Bruce, Great review. I was looking at this the other day at my local AD. How would you compare this to the MM300? Weight, movement, feel etc.... Also, would love to see a review of the Longines Legend Diver. Cheers
No problem Tony. The MM is definitely heavier with a nicer finished case, and better lume. The BB really pulls ahead with bezel action, bracelet, clasp, and comfort in wearing day to day. tbh they are very different and I love both. If I had to pick one I think it would be the Tudor. I'm enjoying it a lot more than I thought I would. Cheers :)
Hi bruce, great review as always how would you compare the size of the BB on the wrist to a submarinerI went to rolex and found the sub a bit small for me.I did see th blue BB but felt it was bland didint try it on but the red looks enchantingWhat do you think you enjoy wearing more the mm300 or BB , thanks again for the reviewRegardsRob
Hey Rob, I would say it compares pretty well with the Sub. Its wider and taller, the wider bracelet width helps accentuate the difference. But it doesn't feel that much different (at least to me) when considering the extra weight the fat lugs on the new subs bring
And about which I like wearing more- tough question they are such different watches. Probably the Tudor as the MM was pretty tall and chunky. Tudor disappeared on the wrist easier
yes, I could tell. I thought you were at the glacier near Valdez, but saw your vlog, you were at Seward. I live in Denali, lifetime resident. Own Denali Grizzly Bear Resort. Our family business for 48 years.
That is awesome, a true sourdough! I visited Denali once, (took the train from Anchorage) loved it. I miss Alaska but have been spoiled by these shorter and brighter Utah winters haha
Nice review Bruce. Did you compare this with the Pelagos before getting it? What made you pull the trigger on this one? I have small wrists but I need a date on my watch. Thanks!
I did look at the Pelagos. I tried them both one multiple times at my AD. To be honest I love both. The Pelagos is the superior watch in almost every respect but it is very toolish and lacks the finesse and elegance of the BB. I choose the BB because I was offered a very fair price on a great condition pre-owned example. I'm glad I went with the BB. I would love to own a Pelagos someday but knowing me, I would need a elegant or more dressy steel watch to change it up on occasion so I don't get tired of the austere titanium goodness that is the Pelly. Cheers
great review as usual bruce! quick question about the watches though; how would you compare the overall finishing of this piece to the oris aquis? thanks! :-)
thanks so much for taking the time to reply bruce! please keep the watch related videos coming. I always enjoy your helpful insights as well as your passion for our hobby.
I was planning on doing one of those videos. I was never able to get ahold of an in house version before I sold my eta version. Probably won't happen now. Sorry man!
I have the bb steel. Lovely watch but the build quality of the bezel let's it down. View it from the side and the bezel moves up and down at the 12 and 6.
![Tudor Black Bay ETA Smiley Red 41mm [79220R] - Watch Review](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5dFJdJGZhE4/mqdefault.jpg)
The best review I have seen on this Tudor, period! Well done Bruce!
Thanks Harry, very nice to hear!
what a beautiful piece the way it's put together it's symmetry is sublime. I appreciate the inclusion of macro shots showing off the details
Thanks, I appreciate that. Cheers Nigel
Watching this video while wearing this actual watch. Thanks Bruce, agree with your thoughts 100%, and 100% convinced I want one despite the negatives. When a watch speaks to you, answering is a must.
Always answer the call!
Appreciate the shots and views of this Tudor BB in your video. Nice work.
I myself am wearing a Black Bay Red as I’m texting you. Love it! No issues. I’m actually waiting on a Tudor NATO strap that matches the watch colors down to the red wine color. Can’t wait. I also ordered the Rubber strap by Tudor also. The 2other Tudors I love is the Tiger Chrono and the GMT version.
This is the best review I have seen of the Black Bay, good work!
Thanks!
Brilliant video Bruce! LOVE the shots you have taken too and plus it is one incredible looking watch :) Keep up the great work!
Thanks man! I realized I hadn't subbed to you yet. Problem solved 👍
Wow thank you for the sub :D Means a lot!!
Can someone answer a question for me?
I recently got one of these in blue and I thought it was strange that the fabric strap it came with was red. I assumed that the blue would come with a blue strap and the red one with a red strap but in this video, the red version comes with a blue strap.
Have I gotten wrong?
Could you choose a colour strap when we’re able to buy these?
I thought that maybe the guy the previous owner bought it from put a random Tudor strap in the box when he sold it to make it a “full set” 🤷♂️
I don't recall the blue coming with a red NATO either...
Nice review! I've had my Black Bay Red for 2 years now and it's definitely a great watch. For me the lack of a date window was actually a plus, as most other watches I have has a date window. I really like the look of this dial without a date.
I'm not sure if you knew, since it wasn't pointed out in your video, but the bezel, in addition to having very nice action, has a nice trick that I haven't seen on any other dive watch. If you spin the bezel at a constant rate without looking at it, you should feel the bezel click resistance increase when the pip reaches the 12 o'clock position. This means you can "reset" the bezel pip pretty easily by feel without having to looking at it. Pretty cool little hidden feature of this watch.
I did not know that about the bezel! That is awesome, going to try that out tonight. Like you, I think it's nice to have a variety of movements and complications or lack therof in this case. Makes it fun to change it up throughout the week. Congrats on yours of two years, cheers man
I just love the colors on this piece.
Me too
"Sometimes you just have to look at it" - Ed Bassmaster
LOL this is my favorite all time comment. Bartle Doo!!!!!!
Great review. Excellent mix of detailed images and thorough content! Nice work.
Superb review. I've just bought the ETA version of the Black Bay Black and your video has got me very excited about its arrival!
stewester that's awesome man I'm excited for you. Good choice 👍
Cheers! Hope you're still enjoying yours
I bought my one in red yesterday! Coooooole piece:)
Superb review, Bruce! I've seen a lot of reviews for this BB, but the details, macro shots, info and different (amazing) locations you've displayed took it to another level. I'm still in love with this piece since I got it (about 3 months ago). It really competes with my other watches (specially the divers), but this - and the Sumo - takes the major 'wrist time'. Greetings from Rio, Brazil!
Cheers! I appreciate the kind comment. It certainly is a great watch, congrats on yours :) Greetings from Utah
Great review, a lot of nice shots too!
12:46 the rook inside the shield, a lovely subtle detail. ;-)
Thanks Guideaux. I thought of you when I took that pic haha I remember you pointing it out on your pelly. Cheers man
Great review! I currently have 3 Black Bays - Blue and Black ETA + Steel. They are absolutely fantastic watches. On the Time-only ETAs I simply rotate the bezel to point to the date when I'm not timing something. Works like a charm.
My grail!! I absolutely love that watch! Congrats on getting it bro!! Killer review too!!
Thanks my man!
Great camera work, Bruce. I enjoyed your review and your passion for watches. I'm just getting into watches at 46. I bought a Hamilton Pilot 46mm with an ETA 2836-2 movement as my first automatic. Great watch Btw. Now I'm craving luxury and I'm considering a Tutor BB or a Rolex Sub as my first diver / sports watch.That Tutor is looking even better now after that review. Thanks again!
I really just want to echo the comments that have already been made about the excellent way in which you presented your review. Great job!
Thanks :)
Excellent objective review Bruce. Enhanced by the lovely scenery and back drops you have done. Enjoyed.
I'm glad you liked it
You've got yourself a new fan! I'm expected to get mine tomorrow and I am so excited!
Much like yours mine will be identical as I too got the ETA version!
Great review friend, looking forward to more content!
Thanks man, let me know what you think of it :)
Outstanding and detailed review, Bruce and also really well made shooting and scenes. I really enjoyed it. Thank you.
Keep up the good work.
Best regards,
Fabio.
Thanks Fabio :)
Just got mine with the in-house movement. Love it,. Great review Bruce, keep up the great work.
Bruce - Another great video! You really gave a very detailed review and touch on all aspects of this watch.
Thanks Andy!
Excellent review Bruce, love the ETA talk. made good sense. Love the scenery! ! "Where's Bruce" ?, " He's over there filming his wrist again " :)
lol my poor wife has gotten used to seeing my phone consistently taking wrist shots and video
Bruce probably the best review I've seen of this watch,very well thought out and unbiased,it's a good point about the anti glare glass hasn't really bothered me as yet as for the date I've found it nice not having one as the dial is face has such a good look about it,also the eta debate as you mentioned the 2824 with the Tudors own personal touch makes it special and over seven days only loses 2 sec,I'm keeping mine and it will probably be given to my son in the future,I'm hooked just ordered the bronze !
That's awesome, congrats! I saw the review Paul Thorpe in the UK did on it and it looks amazing over the video, I'm excited for you. Thanks for the nice comment
Regarding the date, did Tudor remove the date setting position from the 2824 movement? Is there only hand winding and time setting positions with nothing in between?
Excellent review! I'm glad to hear that you will be comparing the ETA version with the new in-house movement version. This watch is on my list -- I just don't know which version I should purchase. Thanks again for the great work you do on your channel.
Thanks Steven, I appreciate that. I wish I could have a new one in hand but that won't be possible. I'll just speak and contrast the two, weigh the pros and cons and drop in a lot of photos. Cheers
Great review! Love the comment "finishing up to par with Rolex and Omega, but not quite Grand Seiko", made my day.
lol not much can touch GS, gotta tell it like it is
A very well thought out review on the burgundy black bay 79220R, I love the one with ETA2824 which I think is more collectible because they don't make it anymore and the dial looks fantastic and the bracelet also looks better than the newly release 79230R
Great review! One of the best I've seen for this wonderful watch! Thanks!
Thank you!
I have the Black bay with blue bezel...just love it. I owned a Rolex Sub but foolishly sold it. I love my Tudor just the same.
Same story here haha
Really great review, well done with the comments regarding the ETA movement.
Thanks Andrew 👍
thanks for great review....loved the approach of showing the piece out and about, even eating ice cream
Haha thanks! Glad you enjoyed it
Jesus, I'm not even ashamed of my elabore grade ETA in some of my other pieces including a few steinys.. They have been work horses for me for me and I have 0 complaints..
Yeah, they seem to get a bad rap since the 2824-2s are so inexpensive. Funny really
+Bruce Williams ya, I used to think similarly, then looked at how long I've been going service free on some of mine(6-7yrs). I try not to get caught up in the forums/TH-cam bashing now a days and take most with a grain of salt.. I find people tend to focus on the few bad experiences..
Why would one be ashamed of owning watches with ETA movement?
I would be ashamed of paying 3 thousand dollars to repair an in-house movement, just to say I have a watch with an in-house movement
Bruce Williams worn my steinhart to carnagie hall and deep sea fishing. The eta is fantastic! I do love the look of that tudor!
They suck ... eta sucks balls ... doesn’t work after 5 years and I’d loud
Great review! I love your attention to detail. Very informative. I was thinking of getting one of these, but ended up getting the Oris Divers 65 due to it's slimmer profile.
I have owned mine for 4 days now and agree with every word you just said - great review great watch. gj mate
Thanks and congrats!
Awesome review with outstanding pics embedded. Great job man
Thanks!
The original and in my opinion the best iteration of this watch. They are a steal on the secondary market compared to the new models. I much prefer the uncluttered dial with the Rotor - Self Winding text.
Date? Hahaha I don't follow nor care about a date complication in a watch anymore. I am retired 😂😂😂, best regards from San Juan, Puerto Rico. BTW, love your reviews.
Beautiful , makes me want to buy one again !!! Great review Bruce 😀😀
Thanks Chris, I would really miss this one if I sold it.
The new in house movement versions box isn’t as nice. Why get rid of the black lacquer
Great review I got a blue one last week, I was worried about it being a bit big or thick but it’s really not, infact the eta I have is pretty thin for a diver and sits perfect on the wrist!
Wow. Excellent review my friend. Very, very thorough. Awesome job! Thank you.
Are the gold colored hands and markers on the dial made from gold like the Rolex?
I'm pretty sure they are not
How can you tell if your Tudor Black Bay has the ETA or the newer in house movement? Which one is better?
Great detailed video as always Bruce.
Thanks Matt 👍
Nice review. I think the pre-owned prices are going to go lower as the new ones are released. I think it could be a great opportunity for me to buy one. I personally like this version more. Over time these may become more valuable, but that's anyone's guess.
There are aspects about the newer movement that will make the new version worth more. However, I believe way too much emphasis is put on the movement, and how it relates to value. A watch, to me, is all about the case, dial, hands, attention to details, etc, before you even get to the movement. When you consider what Tudor has done to the movement, it's worth it.
This is a great comment. I hope your able to find a great price should you decide the model is for you. I certainly have zero problems with this era version but I do admit I am a little envious of the silicon hairspring, free sprung balance, and 3 day power reserve in the new ones. I think your spot on
Way to show those "luxury watch" jokers how it's done. Bravo, Mr Williams!
I bought a Black Bay Black bezel with in house movement. I love it.
Would you consider getting an in house?
Where is this place you shot at?
Great review Bruce, liked the coin reference.
Cheers Paul
Great review and a beautiful piece. Really enjoyed this!!
Thanks Crystal, always means a lot coming from you 😎
Again, well done. Love this watch and am obsessed with Tudor in the way I am with Seiko. Makes me wonder what is the state of your collection.
Thanks man. It's actually really sad. I flipped almost all my efforts to get serious about saving for a Grail. I only have the skx009 and this Tudor. Seiko and Tudor/Rolex are my favorite brands
+Bruce Williams That's cool. I'm sure your collection will evolve.
What a lovely watch. I'm with you on enjoying seeing all those interesting details. May be a future purchase - the pre-owned prices seem quite good. Nice fair review pointing positives and negatives. Cheers, John
Hey thanks John. Still enjoying the sdgm? I got a very fair price pre owned and glad I went that route
Definitely still enjoying the SDGM. If you decide to sell the Tudor let me know! (although I won't be in the market until next year) Ciao, John
I tried one on at my local dealer about a month ago. The first thing that struck me was the thick and chunkyness of the watch. It put me off a little.
Definitely a modern sized diver, larger than the more well known submariner
is it possible to change the hands ? don't really like the snow flake
You could change the hands if you wanted. Although modding lower priced watches is far more common
I don't know what to think of the rose gold markers, hands and minute track. It gives the watch a certain vintage look, but it seems a little bit out of place. In the case design it's easy to see the family resemblance with the Submariner.
I understand that an in-house movement appeals more to the imagination, but the topgrade version of the ETA2824 is a very respected movement which is extra decorated and regulated by Tudor. This version will give a lot of inhouse made movements a run for their money.
Who cares if the movement is decorated when there is no exposition in the back?
Awesome review, Bruce!
I love my black bay so much!
Thanks, I appreciate it, and congrats on yours
great video. superb macro shots. thanks!
Thank you
Thanks you great review make review about Tudor bronze and Tudor LHD your opinion would be nice to hear
Ali Bakhit thank you. I think the bronze is awesome but it's too big. I think they should have kept it at the standard 41mm size. LHD is really cool. It's getting hate online but I think it's a home run.
Great review! 100% agree on all counts!
Thanks Ryan
very informative video Bruce thanks for uploading.
Cheers Nick
Perhaps Tudor and Rolex don't apply antireflective coating to their Sapphire crystals because it may affect any patina that the watches may aquire?
Fairly sure that none of the new watches will obtain the patina affect.
Nice review. I was in love with the Black Bay Black until I tried it on. Just a little too big and chunky for my wrist. Looks good on yours though. I really like the guilt dial and Tudor Rose.
I hear you. It's funny how putting it on wrist makes all the difference. Cheers Scott
I do think BB is a value watch. However, I am a little sad you let go of the MM300. But, a collectors got to move on at times. Look forward to your next video champ!
Yeah, sometimes I wonder why I did it. Oh well, moving forward and enjoying the hobby! Cheers Mitchell
Great review I am going to have to take a look at one in the flesh.But if I get one. I can always blame you Bruce .
Haha cheers mate, You'll be part to blame when I get a Rolex. I will need the mug as well
what's the price and where can i get one?
New prices at an AD are about $3600 and you might be able to negotiate up to 10 percent discount. I bought mine pre owned from a friend in the low $2000s. The watchuseek forums are a good place to look for preowned ones. Chrono24 and eBay are also worthy of a look.
Great review. Im just found my next watch!
Eta version and in house version, which one is better? I'm so confused
I'm going to do a video on it within the next couple weeks. My short answer opinion is: the In House version is superior. But the ETA version is a good investment
Great review Bruce! Now more than ever I'm regretting selling my BB 😢
Maybe rebuy the updated version?
+Bruce Williams I like the first gen better, I like the layout of the dial and the "rose"... and call me crazy but I think the ETA it's going to be a future collectable.
+daltonjr definitely not crazy man, I think it will get there. Everyone says black because of the shorter production length but I lean towards the blue being the most collectible. It seems to be the clear favorite on the forums and groups.
I love the red bezel with the black dial on these. I just wish it had a date window!
I scratches the lugs switching straps out on my BB 36 :/. I'll get over it lol
Random Reviews :/
OK Rolex and Tudor. these watches are just too beautiful. Black Bay Maroon, Rolex Air King, or Exlporer. rolex Oyster. I think my next watch will be the tudor, I will hang onto my 34mm air king.
Great review. Love this watch, but curved lugs would be nice. Would hug the wrist a bit more. Just my two cents.
Great two cents mate
Exactly. Not curved lugs and 50mm lug to lug makes it a little hard for my 6.5" wrist to wear. Dial is beautiful.
Good review which is all about the watch not like other reviews that they need to put their face in the camera for half an hour before they actually show the watch!! I hate that and I switch them off
I'm more interested in getting a Fifty Eight now. I love the smiley BB but it's big lug to lug.
I agree. the 58 seems like a whole new watch. Its thin and gorgeous. I will def check it out in person when it hits my AD
I think it's imminent here in the UK.
You went to Valdez!!! Sweet!
I grew up in Anchorage, went back for a visit this month :)
Great review. BTW: HQ Milton has what looks to be a pristine Rolex Air King you seek.
Nice! Thanks for the heads up, still saving though. Hopefully by Christmas
the curved text is something cool too
For sure
Beautiful watch. Do you know if the gold on the dial and hands is real ?
Thanks, I don't think so. I would wager its just plated brass. They look excellent though
Great review Bruce! I am very jealous!
Cheers Josh 👍
Hey Bruce. Great review! This watch has been on my shortlist for sometime now. I keep debating between the Black Bay and the SMPc. My most pressing concern for the Black Bay is the size, both the height and the span of the lugs. I believe our wrist size is quite similar, so could I ask whether or not the size was ever a concern for you as you spent considerable time with this watch? Thanks in advance. Looking forward to the next video.
Thanks Adam. I love the smpc. Got a friend who recently bought one and I've handled them in the store. Its not helpful but you cant go wrong with either, especially since they are similarly priced. I love the ceramics, gloss, and chronometer certification of the Omega. I love the tapering bracelet, heritage styling, and bezel action of the Tudor. Only thing I don't like about the Omega is the helium release crown, and the fact the 2500d movement is not 4 hz. Id say see if you can try them on side by side, and take several pics. Think it over and buy the one you think you would enjoy more or be more comfortable with. Both are very strong entry level luxury divers. Lastly to answer your question, I find the BB to be comfortable, no issues with its size or weight
Awesome. I agree there really is no "bad' choice with either, which is probably why the decision has become so difficult. Good to hear you had no issues with the size, that helps a lot, no doubt I will attempt to try them on in person eventually. I really appreciate your response. Thanks again.
+Adam J. Perlaki your welcome!
Nice review Bruce.. 👊
Thanks bro 👊
Great review. And great great watch.
Bruce,
Great review. I was looking at this the other day at my local AD. How would you compare this to the MM300? Weight, movement, feel etc.... Also, would love to see a review of the Longines Legend Diver. Cheers
No problem Tony. The MM is definitely heavier with a nicer finished case, and better lume. The BB really pulls ahead with bezel action, bracelet, clasp, and comfort in wearing day to day. tbh they are very different and I love both. If I had to pick one I think it would be the Tudor. I'm enjoying it a lot more than I thought I would. Cheers :)
Awesome video!
If you gave the SBDX017 a "B", what would you consider the black bay and do you maintain the MM300's score?
I would say the BB would get a B+ or A-. Overall it is more solid and universal to wear than the MM with few drawbacks. Cheers :)
Hi bruce, great review as always how would you compare the size of the BB on the wrist to a submarinerI went to rolex and found the sub a bit small for me.I did see th blue BB but felt it was bland didint try it on but the red looks enchantingWhat do you think you enjoy wearing more the mm300 or BB , thanks again for the reviewRegardsRob
Hey Rob, I would say it compares pretty well with the Sub. Its wider and taller, the wider bracelet width helps accentuate the difference. But it doesn't feel that much different (at least to me) when considering the extra weight the fat lugs on the new subs bring
And about which I like wearing more- tough question they are such different watches. Probably the Tudor as the MM was pretty tall and chunky. Tudor disappeared on the wrist easier
Bruce, looks like some of your photos were in Alaska?
Yes, about half the pic/video was taken on a recent trip to Alaska, and half taken here where I live in Utah
yes, I could tell. I thought you were at the glacier near Valdez, but saw your vlog, you were at Seward. I live in Denali, lifetime resident. Own Denali Grizzly Bear Resort. Our family business for 48 years.
That is awesome, a true sourdough! I visited Denali once, (took the train from Anchorage) loved it. I miss Alaska but have been spoiled by these shorter and brighter Utah winters haha
Nice review Bruce. Did you compare this with the Pelagos before getting it? What made you pull the trigger on this one? I have small wrists but I need a date on my watch. Thanks!
I did look at the Pelagos. I tried them both one multiple times at my AD. To be honest I love both. The Pelagos is the superior watch in almost every respect but it is very toolish and lacks the finesse and elegance of the BB. I choose the BB because I was offered a very fair price on a great condition pre-owned example. I'm glad I went with the BB. I would love to own a Pelagos someday but knowing me, I would need a elegant or more dressy steel watch to change it up on occasion so I don't get tired of the austere titanium goodness that is the Pelly. Cheers
Thanks. Size wise, is the Pelly way bigger than the BB? My biggest watch right now is a sumo and it's my max size.
+rexrem not much bigger I think just one mm but it is taller. If you can wear a sumo you could definitely pull off the pelagos 👍
great review as usual bruce!
quick question about the watches though; how would you compare the overall finishing of this piece to the oris aquis? thanks! :-)
paolo zafra thanks, I would say there isn't a huge different but the Tudor is a little sharper. The Aquis is really well done for the price
if you were to choose between the two? which one would you choose? for a keeper in your collection i mean. :-)
I would choose the Black Bay
thanks so much for taking the time to reply bruce! please keep the watch related videos coming. I always enjoy your helpful insights as well as your passion for our hobby.
paolo zafra no problem. Got an omega sea master review coming as well as a comparison to the BB in the next couple weeks
When u doing the eta vs inhouse ?
I was planning on doing one of those videos. I was never able to get ahold of an in house version before I sold my eta version. Probably won't happen now. Sorry man!
Just love the watch! Great review. The price for a preowned?
Thanks, I paid in the lower 2000s for a good condition piece still under warranty
+Bruce Williams good deal! I need to find one for almost the same price.
+Yaax Arr I'm very pleased with the amount of watch I got for the money. I hope you find a good deal
Is it a CHRONOMETER?
I have the bb steel. Lovely watch but the build quality of the bezel let's it down. View it from the side and the bezel moves up and down at the 12 and 6.
Good review. The only thing that puts me off this watch is its a little bit Chunky. Otherwise it's a great watch
It is pretty chunky for a vintage styled diver I must admit.
Fantastic review.
Thanks Andy 👍
36mm I do explorer 14270 and 15010 I thank will be go ahead if like you say 41mm
excellent review
Thank you