Me too. I grew up seeing and wearing only smaller watches, the only dudes wearing big ones in the 90s were overly flashy bro types. I even have a larger wrist and 36 seems big enough
This Tudor perfectly matches where I'm at as a consumer. It marked a work milestone, that didn't break the bank and still feels special when I wear it.
I like the idea of "presenting the whole watch". I have same size wrist as you and own the new 36mm explorer and what I love about it and other smaller watches is just that, you see the whole watch, not just the dial. To me watch looks better when you see bit of the bracelet from the top. Just for this revelation I subscriped.😊
I prefer watches that disappear on the wrist, and I like the visual balance of a smaller watch where you see lugs and some bracelet when you check the time. My two favorite watches are my 36mm Explorer and my 36mm OP green dial. I am 100% happy with my BB58, it wears light and easy on my wrist on either its leather strap, tropic rubber strap or a Forstner jubilee bracelet. My favorite feature of the 58 is the red triangle.
I don’t blame you! The 36 mm Rolex size is a very comfortable and proportional layout. And I’m probably still in the same boat on the triangle marker on the bezel
On OP or explorer, it's okay for 36mm, but to me dive watch is different because the bezel takes up some space. But for my preference, 36mm is too small, I like 40 to 41mm
@@MarkDanger777 I agree that 36mm is too small for a dive watch. I do not own a BB54. I have a Tudor BB58, which is 39 mm, and a Rolex Submariner, which is 41mm.
First, you did a great job in this video (talked about things no one is talking about). I have seen this watch in person twice at the AD. I love it. I have a BB58 (blue) now. You are right, you "notice" the lugs and the case and just the watch as a whole A LOT more. I have a 2010 Seamaster (wedding gift) that I got in 2010 (like the one you pictured in your video). and for me, this is by far a better size (for me) vs. the current generation of Seamaster's, which have now gotten very aggressive in styling and almost "cartoon like" in some ways, vs, the smaller and more refined version that I have. So, I would never look at a current Seamaster as a result. Tudor is smart. This 54 is very much what a lot of us really want. Also, thinking about my "future self" at 41 now, as I age I don't see me wanting larger watches from here on out, LOL. I see it going the other way. I feel like this is a watch that I can wear and enjoy forever. Hopefully that all makes sense.
I'm not far behind you in age, just picked up the navy bb 54 yesterday and am smitten. I'm interested in trying out some additional bands/bracelets as well, I have seen various colors work well with the blue and might be more versatile than I initially thought. I had the option to save some money in getting the original black with red/gold and it looked great with the NATO strap it came with at the AD, but I wanted to start with the steel bracelet. Maybe next year I'll go for that version as well...
As a Pelagos 39 owner and fan of thin and small watches myself I kinda got weak at the start of the video when you compared the Pelagos 39 to the BB 54...that being said, I'm extremely happy with my Pelagos 39 and I'm not planning on switching it out for a BB 54 anytime soon!
I bought this on the rubber strap with the T fit clasp and omg it is fantastic. Like you said don’t even realise it’s on the wrist it’s so light. Just looks incredible.
I loved the design of the White dial Seamaster 300m I had, but at 42mm it was not very comfortable, it was top heavy. Thickness has always been Omega's Achilles heel, and I hope they soon realize that what Tudor has been doing with regards to case sizes and wearability actually WORKS!! When Omega releases a Seamaster 300m Great White or a vintage inspired Seamaster in a 39 or 40mm case and 12mm thickness tops I will be lining up to get it!!
@@scollyutube The did decrease thickness by around 1mm with the new one, and the case has never really been 42mm, bezel is actually smaller than that that's why it doesn't wear like a 42mm watch. I have had both the Speedmaster and the Seamaster and the speedy is more wearable due to smaller case size and being less heavy while now being around the same thickness.
Yeah - Tudor has this issue on the 41s too. If you try on an Explorer 2 at 42 it’s an amazing fit if you have a wrist about 7 because it’s so slim. Much nicer profile than SMP.
@@mkyhou1160 I considered the 42 Explorer II so i tried one at the AD last year, I did not like how it looked. Not that there is anything wrong with it per say, I guess I'm just used to 40mm Rolexes, the too big for my eyes dial and really MAXIi markers and hour hands were a little too much for me but they are perfect for what is supposed to be the core purpose of the Explorerii. Instead I got myself a 16570 Polar, the wearability and versatility are incredible.
Do I think smaller divers are obviously becoming more “in-style” but I also think bigger watches are staying “in-style” also. They can both co-exist. These divers are becoming popular but the giant Richard Mille’s and giant AP RO offshores are still in-style too. I’m not a fan of Richard Mille but it is what it is. A lot of people also where 36mm OP’s and Omega Aqua Terra’s in 38mm I think we’re either in transition or the two are literally co-existing.
Great video as always! I loved my bb58, and love my Pelagos 39 too, but this BB54 just wears so incredibly well, it makes them feel a wee bit porky by comparison. The Titanium saves the p39, but my 58 is on the way out i think. I'd be so up for a modern midsized seamaster. I've had a 36mm one for over 20 years, and adore it, but i'd welcome some of the updates Omega have been putting into their watches, especially if it had a sexy little co axial movement in it.
Great review and appreciate the perspective. I like the size and everything that comes with this. I won't buy this now as Tudor will iterate on this watch and I'm curious what is next to come. I would be surprised if they went the same, blue, bronze, silver, gold pattern like the BB58. I can certainly see them using this smaller size to be a two-tone or all gold with gold bracelet model. We know that Tudor likes to release more watches throughout the year, so I'll save my money to see what else they have up their sleeve. The BB58 line likely gets a new iteration this year or perhaps a Pelagos 42mm size.
Great review I own a 34mm tudor prince date and recently got an explorer 36 and then various 40mm plus. Great point about being able to see the entire case and how it sits evenly on your wrist.
Think you are spot on about the eyes being drawn to the case. When I saw this watch I couldn't help but see the rolex sub with its similar hefty case presence.
Picked one of these up yesterday from the AD on the rubber really love it. Agree with the vintage watch feel and comfort comments I am smitten with it!
Stunning watch. It's crazy to say but the San Martin SN008 is similar but the brushed sides and no rivet bracelet make it even better. I found it while looking for a BB58 alternative, and it's phenomenal.
@@fontyyy "You buy a San Martin because you can't afford the Tudor." Interesting considering I can afford both; I own the S.M SN004 limited, and I am currently on Tudor's waiting list for a BB54. Some have the money, but aren't interested in spending a lot of money on wristwatches. Bill Gates, for example. Some want a beater with the same look, while the original watch sets in a safe. The reasons are many, but one thing is for sure: it's not always because someone "can't afford" it. The San Martin, by the way, is a damn good watch.
Size doesn't matter to me. Comfort is all i care about, but L2L can be an issue when it's too short. When the strap curves a bit over the top of my wrist. I get a cramping feeling to the point that i can't use anything else than a soft nato strap to prevent friction. 38-40mm with 49-50mm L2L is my sweet spot.
Tried it on and if i did not have my BB58 i may have bought it. At the moment saving up for the new black bay 36 blue on the jubilee, another awesome watch.
I have a midsize seamaster 36mm and a 39mm aquaterra. honestly, the midsize seamaster is more comfortable to wear everyday. I love them both but if I wanted to grab a 40mm size or a bigger watch, I need it to be thinner than the speedmaster. (and preferably with female endlinks like the current ver)
It’s the same tactic of the fashion industry - saturate the market with one extreme and then go the opposite way. You sell more product when the variation that your selling is differentiated by new technology and “fit”. The old sizes were small with old tech gradually becoming larger with newer tech and now they are becoming smaller with new tech…
I have a bb58 on a Oyster Style bracelet with the T-Fit clasp and it looks great, what I did was simply buy the Tudor Ranger 39 bracelet, it fits the bb58 perfectly. cheers
The problem with small dive watches vs things like Exp 1 is that the bezel eats up quite a lot of spate, so the dial ends up looking tiny. 40mm for a dive watch I think is perfect.
Thanks for the good review and comparisons! How does it compare to the P39 (on the bracelet) in terms of disappearing? Which one is more noticeable? I can imagine the BB54 being heavier but thinner while the P39 being bulkier but lighter. The bracelet thickness on P39 is kind of thick.
I had the seamaster 36mm and while a great watch your point about dive watches is important. This watch to me really is the cut off in size for a dive watch because you do need to have a legible dial. I could not see the dial on my seamaster easily so I got the 41mm.
Would it be crazy to have both? 58 blue and this? I love the 58 Blue so much that i have found myself almost clicking the buy now button on the Black and then this miraculously came out and now i can say they are truly different watches. It’s crazy to have both but I think they nailed this one. It’s the perfect vintage submariner that will cost you far less. I also own the new ranger and the Pro. This adds to the craziness. Pro however is just too thick and its for sale (unworn as i have not been able to get over the slabiness). I will buy the San Martin Homage with the NH34 and I’m guessing the new true GMT Miyota movement soon as an option which will be a better execution in my mind. It’s a pretty amazing homage. Back to the 54….if i fall in love with it on wrist i fear i wont have the will power to say no… beauty is Tudor holds their value more and more these days and so parking money in them wont necessarily make you money or retain its total Value, it does allow to wear it and sell it on down then road and recoup a goo portion of the value… i really have become a Tudor fanboy as much as a Rolex Fanboy!
Good videos! I was considering selling the 58 once I had this but they are two different animals. I wear the 58 on an Erika's original Bond strap and this with the T-Fit has the bracelet the 58 should have had. 58 for swimming, this for every day. I do wish Tudor would smooth down the underside of their bracelets as you really notice the difference if you switch from Tudor to a Rolex. But maybe Rolex will only allow them to do so much 🤭I also don't like the faux rivets but hardly notice them once on. Tudor are definitely competing with Omega with the METAS, but Omega are still a level or two above with finish etc, prob better than Rolex for quality. What let's Omega down is their inability to make the cases very slim and Rolex bracelets are still the most comfortable of any watch IMO.
Much appreciated perspective on the geometry of the 54. I do like this version or maybe I’m buying into the hype, but not so much to replace my first choice. Besides, my 58 has way too many abrasions and knucklehead knicks to have it worth anything to anyone other than myself, it’s got my good and bad memories, all meaningful regardless. And it would be redundant to have both bays.
I’m currently torn between the Speedmaster 38 and new Carrera Glassbox 39mm. Love both but can’t decide. Love the 54 but have an Explorer so felt it’s a bit redundant
Proportions matter more than size, the modern trend of big watches is in most cases is more tacky instead of charming. Being elegant is far more appealing than being loud and obnoxious. Its a wrist time piece not Flavor Flavs neck chain alarm clock.
As you say, it's "apparently" popular. Tudor clearly suppress supply to generate hype. You'll notice since these new releases the BB Pro and the Pelagos 39 are everywhere in stores.
Recently picked up my Pelagos 39. It keeps the time perfect (During the latest twelve days it has lost 0,2 seconds - Daily wearing without deliberate positioning). Unless the Metas certification is imperative to you, the current C.O.S.C.-version of the Peli 39 will do the job concerning time-keeping.
Good review Harrison. And thank you for answering the question of whether this makes sense if you already own a Black Bay 58/Pelagos 39. For me, I can’t imagine downsizing to a 37mm diver.
I tried on the 54 and personally for me it doesn’t do it. In my opinion because they had to extend the lugs so the 37mm size would fit the average wrist profile, it just looks like a tonneau shaped watch with a circular profile and a dive bezel, it still looks good on wrist but because of that, it just has an awkward look.
It was always “in” by people who know horology and know what looks good and proportionate and what looks like a hockey puck and like an “Invicta”. We basically screamed at Tudor and other brands to make smaller watches over and over again and they never listened. People said Tudor would never make a 37mm because it would decrease the value of their historic pieces (and Rolexes). Then the economy sputtered and sales declined and they finally listened.
Great video! I'm thinking about whether I should sell the BB54 or the Pelagos39 because I'll probably get an Explorer 36 next year. What would you say?
Tough call! Depends on your style. There’s more of a difference between the 39 and the explorer, but if you wear nicer clothes most the time, the 54 is probably a better fit for your life
I'm just waiting for Blancpain to catch the drift and bring back the 40mm Fifty Fathom for regular production, not the goddam limited editions that sell at 10 grand premiums.
Looking at your Explorer 2 I wish Rolex would add a 40 mm option with a 20 bracelet. I really like the 54 but I’m surprised how popular it is. The execution seems to be the best of the BBs
Fantastic video and love the shots of this watch. Bottom line is that the gilt dial was always hit or miss for me. I was ready to pick up the 41mm just to get rid of it when I had the bb58. That bezel was getting old.
Great review! I had all but given up hope on Tudor doing a more modern re-issue of their midsize Submariners from the 90s (75090/75190), so I'm really happy the BB54 exists! The hardest part now is waiting for the AD call LOL
May I have the ref. number of Explorer 1? I can't choose between 36mm and 40mm of Explorer 1. I hope the size difference between Black Bay 54 and (including lug to lug) is not big.
I need to try this on still but I think I’ve settled on this as my first luxury watch. I love how the BB58 but I have a seiko Spb 62mas so I don’t feel like it’s worth getting something that’s so similar. In videos and on wrist, it doesn’t look that small and i love the smaller size, and the t-fit. On the fly micro adjust is a deal breaker for me getting a luxury piece.
I'm not sure mid-size watches have ever been OUT, have they? Certainly not outside of the casual/dress watch category. The 36mm DateJust is still, by far and away, the most popular watch in the Rolex line-up. I think if you choose a watch size on a measurement spec you have read, well, there is a high chance that you will be disappointed. A 36mm DJ wears like a 39mm watch as an example. And obviously wrist size...saying a 36mm everyday watch or 37mm diver is "too small".....too small to whom?
I think mid-size watches were out for a while, at least to non-enthusiasts. I wore my DJ36 a lot from 2010-2018 and was told several times by people that they liked the watch, but they wished it was bigger. The only younger people (those in their 20s and 30s) I saw wearing watches smaller than 40mm during that time period were women.
The 42 Pelagos could resist a pressure of up to 7350psi. The 39 could only support 3000psi. It is a big structural difference between both watches. The cristal and the case of the 39 will be crushed at 7000psi. They are not the same.
Minute tracker and red triangle wins for me. I don’t care what is the size of the watch as long it’s a 40mm or under. On my 7.25 inch wrist I can wear anything from 34mm and up
The lugs on the 54 look too thick in my opinion - makes the case look like the old Maxi Rolex cases on the sub and GMT. It means that the bracelet doesn't flow into the watch head properly. I ordered the 54 and then turned it down at my AD. The rivet bracelet, yes, always annoying. the 54 is also just quite an underwhelming watch I think. Bit dull in the metal.
Rolex has a 37mm though not a diver - Aquastar has a 37mm diver watch that has been selling well in the past year, Rado Captain Cook 37 mm diver another popular diver
you definitely have watched videos like: "the 43mm navitimer does wear smaller and does not look too large on my 6.5' wrist' - 43mm is the perfect size " i dont like watches over 40mm but the 49.5 lug to lug of the seamaster makes it very wearable" - 42mm is the perfect size "iwc pilot chronograph 41 is ideal on my 7.25" wrist, does not feel diminutive" - 41mm is the perfect size "the speedmaster 57 wears more comfortable than the seamaster because of the smaller case size" - 40mm is the perfect size "pelogos 39 is the perfect dive watch" - 39mm is the perfect size "38mm is the perfect size for zenith chronomaster original this kind of watch" - 38mm is perfect size "i thought BB54 would be too small but i just like how it disappears on my wrist" - 37mm is perfect size "datejust 41 looks like a dinner plate on my wrist" - 36mm is perfect size
Thanks for the review, it's interesting seeing the comparisons. To my eyes the bb54 looks smaller than the explorer because of the comparative dial size. I just find it a bit too small and also a step back in character from the bb58. I suspect once the excitement of the release is over it will be a luke warm watch like the BB pro. Great that they are offering this option for people that prefer it though, it's a great move.
I ain't going under 39mm tbh. MAYBE 38 if it's still a bulky watch or one that i really like. But i had a 37mm Seiko5 and it was comically small on the wrist.
Yes because watches are generally mass-produced luxury items ... they have to keep people buying... so when people get tired of big watches they start to make them smaller. Give this crazed five or ten years ago start making them bigger again. I love watches but it's a pretty shallow hobby for 95% of people that buy Rolex in a mega and so forth. Probably 95 out of 100 people wouldn't know if they have a cheap giant movement in their Rolex yet they spend countless hours talking about movements and that's why they bought the watch blah blah blah.
The Black Bay 54 is an impressive release. I hope it shows brands that smaller watches are important, useful and desired.
I think it certainly will!
Well said! I agree, there’s a place in every catalogue for for 36-38mm watches.
Me too. I grew up seeing and wearing only smaller watches, the only dudes wearing big ones in the 90s were overly flashy bro types. I even have a larger wrist and 36 seems big enough
This Tudor perfectly matches where I'm at as a consumer. It marked a work milestone, that didn't break the bank and still feels special when I wear it.
Some people don't get it though. I got the bb54. Loving it.
Each to their own pal. Wear what you connect with 😊
I like the idea of "presenting the whole watch". I have same size wrist as you and own the new 36mm explorer and what I love about it and other smaller watches is just that, you see the whole watch, not just the dial.
To me watch looks better when you see bit of the bracelet from the top.
Just for this revelation I subscriped.😊
Hahaha welcome aboard! Glad I could help in some way!
I prefer watches that disappear on the wrist, and I like the visual balance of a smaller watch where you see lugs and some bracelet when you check the time. My two favorite watches are my 36mm Explorer and my 36mm OP green dial. I am 100% happy with my BB58, it wears light and easy on my wrist on either its leather strap, tropic rubber strap or a Forstner jubilee bracelet. My favorite feature of the 58 is the red triangle.
What is the lug to lug on the Black Bay 58? I keep hearing different measurements from different people. Is it 47mm even? Or is it more like 47.5?
I don’t blame you! The 36 mm Rolex size is a very comfortable and proportional layout. And I’m probably still in the same boat on the triangle marker on the bezel
I totally agree
On OP or explorer, it's okay for 36mm, but to me dive watch is different because the bezel takes up some space. But for my preference, 36mm is too small, I like 40 to 41mm
@@MarkDanger777 I agree that 36mm is too small for a dive watch. I do not own a BB54. I have a Tudor BB58, which is 39 mm, and a Rolex Submariner, which is 41mm.
I had a 36.25mm midsize Seamaster, loved it. Look at that picture of Prince William, that's not a small watch.
First, you did a great job in this video (talked about things no one is talking about). I have seen this watch in person twice at the AD. I love it. I have a BB58 (blue) now. You are right, you "notice" the lugs and the case and just the watch as a whole A LOT more. I have a 2010 Seamaster (wedding gift) that I got in 2010 (like the one you pictured in your video). and for me, this is by far a better size (for me) vs. the current generation of Seamaster's, which have now gotten very aggressive in styling and almost "cartoon like" in some ways, vs, the smaller and more refined version that I have. So, I would never look at a current Seamaster as a result. Tudor is smart. This 54 is very much what a lot of us really want. Also, thinking about my "future self" at 41 now, as I age I don't see me wanting larger watches from here on out, LOL. I see it going the other way. I feel like this is a watch that I can wear and enjoy forever. Hopefully that all makes sense.
I'm not far behind you in age, just picked up the navy bb 54 yesterday and am smitten. I'm interested in trying out some additional bands/bracelets as well, I have seen various colors work well with the blue and might be more versatile than I initially thought. I had the option to save some money in getting the original black with red/gold and it looked great with the NATO strap it came with at the AD, but I wanted to start with the steel bracelet. Maybe next year I'll go for that version as well...
Appreciate it! All makes sense. I agree though I always prefer the look of a smaller watch. Just seems more refined
As a Pelagos 39 owner and fan of thin and small watches myself I kinda got weak at the start of the video when you compared the Pelagos 39 to the BB 54...that being said, I'm extremely happy with my Pelagos 39 and I'm not planning on switching it out for a BB 54 anytime soon!
I bought this on the rubber strap with the T fit clasp and omg it is fantastic. Like you said don’t even realise it’s on the wrist it’s so light. Just looks incredible.
Can you post a video with rubber strap? I wanted to see how bb54 looks like on the wrist with a fitted rubber strap.
Yes, please post quick video of rubber strap as can’t seem to find anywhere!
I have a skinny wrist and a midsize Seamaster, I'm dying to put it head-to-head with the 54 one of these days!
I'm okay with dinner plates as long as they are very thin but ideally 35 to 40mm is pretty universal unless you're a huge guy.
I loved the design of the White dial Seamaster 300m I had, but at 42mm it was not very comfortable, it was top heavy. Thickness has always been Omega's Achilles heel, and I hope they soon realize that what Tudor has been doing with regards to case sizes and wearability actually WORKS!! When Omega releases a Seamaster 300m Great White or a vintage inspired Seamaster in a 39 or 40mm case and 12mm thickness tops I will be lining up to get it!!
100% agree with you
I reckon they did ok with the Speedy though 😊
@@scollyutube The did decrease thickness by around 1mm with the new one, and the case has never really been 42mm, bezel is actually smaller than that that's why it doesn't wear like a 42mm watch. I have had both the Speedmaster and the Seamaster and the speedy is more wearable due to smaller case size and being less heavy while now being around the same thickness.
Yeah - Tudor has this issue on the 41s too. If you try on an Explorer 2 at 42 it’s an amazing fit if you have a wrist about 7 because it’s so slim. Much nicer profile than SMP.
@@mkyhou1160 I considered the 42 Explorer II so i tried one at the AD last year, I did not like how it looked. Not that there is anything wrong with it per say, I guess I'm just used to 40mm Rolexes, the too big for my eyes dial and really MAXIi markers and hour hands were a little too much for me but they are perfect for what is supposed to be the core purpose of the Explorerii. Instead I got myself a 16570 Polar, the wearability and versatility are incredible.
I got the watch and really like it. I also have the 36mm seamaster ceramic and the Yatchmaster 37mm so I’m all for smaller dive watches
Do I think smaller divers are obviously becoming more “in-style” but I also think bigger watches are staying “in-style” also. They can both co-exist. These divers are becoming popular but the giant Richard Mille’s and giant AP RO offshores are still in-style too. I’m not a fan of Richard Mille but it is what it is. A lot of people also where 36mm OP’s and Omega Aqua Terra’s in 38mm I think we’re either in transition or the two are literally co-existing.
Great video as always! I loved my bb58, and love my Pelagos 39 too, but this BB54 just wears so incredibly well, it makes them feel a wee bit porky by comparison. The Titanium saves the p39, but my 58 is on the way out i think.
I'd be so up for a modern midsized seamaster. I've had a 36mm one for over 20 years, and adore it, but i'd welcome some of the updates Omega have been putting into their watches, especially if it had a sexy little co axial movement in it.
I’m surprised they don’t offer at least one variant in 36mm, but maybe they’ll get around to it with smaller watches getting more popular
I would love if Omega slimmed down the bracelet on the pro 300 as it is just too heavy and yes to a 37 or 38 mm version, could you imagine?
I like that they offer an even more vintage element with the BB54. I can’t wait for them to upgrade the BB58.
Great review and appreciate the perspective. I like the size and everything that comes with this. I won't buy this now as Tudor will iterate on this watch and I'm curious what is next to come. I would be surprised if they went the same, blue, bronze, silver, gold pattern like the BB58. I can certainly see them using this smaller size to be a two-tone or all gold with gold bracelet model.
We know that Tudor likes to release more watches throughout the year, so I'll save my money to see what else they have up their sleeve.
The BB58 line likely gets a new iteration this year or perhaps a Pelagos 42mm size.
It would be interesting to see a comparison between the 54 and a 37MM Yachtmaster
Great review I own a 34mm tudor prince date and recently got an explorer 36 and then various 40mm plus. Great point about being able to see the entire case and how it sits evenly on your wrist.
Think you are spot on about the eyes being drawn to the case. When I saw this watch I couldn't help but see the rolex sub with its similar hefty case presence.
Picked one of these up yesterday from the AD on the rubber really love it. Agree with the vintage watch feel and comfort comments I am smitten with it!
Stunning watch. It's crazy to say but the San Martin SN008 is similar but the brushed sides and no rivet bracelet make it even better. I found it while looking for a BB58 alternative, and it's phenomenal.
I know what you mean but no one is choosing between a San Martin and a Tudor.
You buy a San Martin because you can't afford the Tudor!
@@fontyyy "You buy a San Martin because you can't afford the Tudor." Interesting considering I can afford both; I own the S.M SN004 limited, and I am currently on Tudor's waiting list for a BB54.
Some have the money, but aren't interested in spending a lot of money on wristwatches. Bill Gates, for example. Some want a beater with the same look, while the original watch sets in a safe. The reasons are many, but one thing is for sure: it's not always because someone "can't afford" it.
The San Martin, by the way, is a damn good watch.
@@RabbitWatchShop ok, you buy a San Martin while you wait for a Tudor.
Happy?
@@fontyyy Yeah, and after acquiring the BB54, I'll continue to wear the San Martin from time to time. Happy indeed, plonker.
Size doesn't matter to me. Comfort is all i care about, but L2L can be an issue when it's too short. When the strap curves a bit over the top of my wrist. I get a cramping feeling to the point that i can't use anything else than a soft nato strap to prevent friction. 38-40mm with 49-50mm L2L is my sweet spot.
Tried it on and if i did not have my BB58 i may have bought it. At the moment saving up for the new black bay 36 blue on the jubilee, another awesome watch.
I have a midsize seamaster 36mm and a 39mm aquaterra.
honestly, the midsize seamaster is more comfortable to wear everyday.
I love them both but if I wanted to grab a 40mm size or a bigger watch, I need it to be thinner than the speedmaster. (and preferably with female endlinks like the current ver)
It’s the same tactic of the fashion industry - saturate the market with one extreme and then go the opposite way. You sell more product when the variation that your selling is differentiated by new technology and “fit”. The old sizes were small with old tech gradually becoming larger with newer tech and now they are becoming smaller with new tech…
I have a bb58 on a Oyster Style bracelet with the T-Fit clasp and it looks great, what I did was simply buy the Tudor Ranger 39 bracelet, it fits the bb58 perfectly.
cheers
I have the 58 and now the 54. I love them both! My heart says keep both, but my head says sell the 58. I think my heart will prevail…
The problem with small dive watches vs things like Exp 1 is that the bezel eats up quite a lot of spate, so the dial ends up looking tiny. 40mm for a dive watch I think is perfect.
Is this Mike Tyson?
Well said and that’s exactly what I felt when I tried the bb54 at the AD. The whole design makes the dial look tiny.
I own an Explorer 14270 with 36mm and would go for the black bay 54 but only with the rubber bracelet. That one looks sick
Thanks for the good review and comparisons!
How does it compare to the P39 (on the bracelet) in terms of disappearing? Which one is more noticeable? I can imagine the BB54 being heavier but thinner while the P39 being bulkier but lighter. The bracelet thickness on P39 is kind of thick.
It's going to depend on your wrist size, a new 126610 Submariner looks smaller on me than that BB 54 looks on you.
I think a 37mm watch is spot on there’s far to many stupidity big watches.
I had the seamaster 36mm and while a great watch your point about dive watches is important. This watch to me really is the cut off in size for a dive watch because you do need to have a legible dial. I could not see the dial on my seamaster easily so I got the 41mm.
The conundrum of comparing and nitpicking between the 54 and the 58 is exactly why replicas are doing so well. We have so many choices.
Funny I started with the small divers and now I’m graduating to larger ones. I like a 36mm dress watch but divers have to be 39 minimum.
Would it be crazy to have both? 58 blue and this? I love the 58 Blue so much that i have found myself almost clicking the buy now button on the Black and then this miraculously came out and now i can say they are truly different watches. It’s crazy to have both but I think they nailed this one. It’s the perfect vintage submariner that will cost you far less. I also own the new ranger and the Pro. This adds to the craziness. Pro however is just too thick and its for sale (unworn as i have not been able to get over the slabiness). I will buy the San Martin Homage with the NH34 and I’m guessing the new true GMT Miyota movement soon as an option which will be a better execution in my mind. It’s a pretty amazing homage. Back to the 54….if i fall in love with it on wrist i fear i wont have the will power to say no… beauty is Tudor holds their value more and more these days and so parking money in them wont necessarily make you money or retain its total Value, it does allow to wear it and sell it on down then road and recoup a goo portion of the value… i really have become a Tudor fanboy as much as a Rolex Fanboy!
Brilliant video, thanks, the BB54 IS CLASS! , I've got the RANGER and love it,next is the BB54, i love the smaller size👍
Good videos! I was considering selling the 58 once I had this but they are two different animals. I wear the 58 on an Erika's original Bond strap and this with the T-Fit has the bracelet the 58 should have had. 58 for swimming, this for every day. I do wish Tudor would smooth down the underside of their bracelets as you really notice the difference if you switch from Tudor to a Rolex. But maybe Rolex will only allow them to do so much 🤭I also don't like the faux rivets but hardly notice them once on. Tudor are definitely competing with Omega with the METAS, but Omega are still a level or two above with finish etc, prob better than Rolex for quality. What let's Omega down is their inability to make the cases very slim and Rolex bracelets are still the most comfortable of any watch IMO.
Much appreciated perspective on the geometry of the 54. I do like this version or maybe I’m buying into the hype, but not so much to replace my first choice. Besides, my 58 has way too many abrasions and knucklehead knicks to have it worth anything to anyone other than myself, it’s got my good and bad memories, all meaningful regardless. And it would be redundant to have both bays.
You're God damn right! The small size should be the only size for watch, not those God damn robust freaks.
explorer 36mm or BB54?
I’m currently torn between the Speedmaster 38 and new Carrera Glassbox 39mm. Love both but can’t decide. Love the 54 but have an Explorer so felt it’s a bit redundant
Great video!!!
What does Tudor use to make the indices and hands gold coloured?
Proportions matter more than size, the modern trend of big watches is in most cases is more tacky instead of charming.
Being elegant is far more appealing than being loud and obnoxious.
Its a wrist time piece not Flavor Flavs neck chain alarm clock.
do you regret buying the explorer 1 as the prices have dropped to around 4k-4.5k now?
As you say, it's "apparently" popular. Tudor clearly suppress supply to generate hype. You'll notice since these new releases the BB Pro and the Pelagos 39 are everywhere in stores.
I’m saving up for the bronze bay 58! ❤
To me, it’s a slightly larger BB 58, and not as interesting. I’ll keep my 58! Thank you. Just subscribed.😊
smaller
I'm going to continue waiting for the T fit and metas to make it down to the 58 or just the metas on the pelagos 39.
Recently picked up my Pelagos 39. It keeps the time perfect (During the latest twelve days it has lost 0,2 seconds - Daily wearing without deliberate positioning). Unless the Metas certification is imperative to you, the current C.O.S.C.-version of the Peli 39 will do the job concerning time-keeping.
It's more the anti magnetic properties to me.
Good review Harrison. And thank you for answering the question of whether this makes sense if you already own a Black Bay 58/Pelagos 39. For me, I can’t imagine downsizing to a 37mm diver.
lug to lug makes it wear like a 39-40
Like the look and size of this more than the BB58. Will have to try one on soon.
I wear a 36mm Omega electric blue and I think it's a great size on my medium wrist
I tried on the 54 and personally for me it doesn’t do it. In my opinion because they had to extend the lugs so the 37mm size would fit the average wrist profile, it just looks like a tonneau shaped watch with a circular profile and a dive bezel, it still looks good on wrist but because of that, it just has an awkward look.
It was always “in” by people who know horology and know what looks good and proportionate and what looks like a hockey puck and like an “Invicta”. We basically screamed at Tudor and other brands to make smaller watches over and over again and they never listened. People said Tudor would never make a 37mm because it would decrease the value of their historic pieces (and Rolexes). Then the economy sputtered and sales declined and they finally listened.
Great video! I'm thinking about whether I should sell the BB54 or the Pelagos39 because I'll probably get an Explorer 36 next year. What would you say?
Tough call! Depends on your style. There’s more of a difference between the 39 and the explorer, but if you wear nicer clothes most the time, the 54 is probably a better fit for your life
Why did you sell the 58?
Whybthey didn't use the Ranger bracelet ? 😢
I'm just waiting for Blancpain to catch the drift and bring back the 40mm Fifty Fathom for regular production, not the goddam limited editions that sell at 10 grand premiums.
Been waiting for this review, This watch is on my list to get for sure!
Looking at your Explorer 2 I wish Rolex would add a 40 mm option with a 20 bracelet. I really like the 54 but I’m surprised how popular it is. The execution seems to be the best of the BBs
I want it. I’m a Tudor fanboy. I have the 42 blue date, Pro, BB41 and opaline gmt. There’s something about it that draws me in. Lol
A Peli 39/Polar Explorer 2 and Explorer 36mm is an awesome 3 watch collection
How's the lume compared to the Pelly 39?
Really good balanced review
Fantastic video and love the shots of this watch. Bottom line is that the gilt dial was always hit or miss for me. I was ready to pick up the 41mm just to get rid of it when I had the bb58. That bezel was getting old.
Great review! I had all but given up hope on Tudor doing a more modern re-issue of their midsize Submariners from the 90s (75090/75190), so I'm really happy the BB54 exists! The hardest part now is waiting for the AD call LOL
I just got mine and it's beautiful.
@@markdegaute2125 Congrats! Wear in good health!!
I would think it makes more sense to keep that watch alongside the pelagos instead of having 2 explorers at the different sizes.
May I have the ref. number of Explorer 1?
I can't choose between 36mm and 40mm of Explorer 1.
I hope the size difference between Black Bay 54 and (including lug to lug) is not big.
I have the 36mm. If you want a vintage spirit , class watch , take it in 36 mm. If you are big man, take 40
Mr. Harrison… when and where is your BB54 going up for sale?
I posted it on EBay a couple days ago
The lug to lug on the BB54 is too long. BB58 has the perfect proportion imo. but i hear that BB54 has more wearing comfort
I need to try this on still but I think I’ve settled on this as my first luxury watch. I love how the BB58 but I have a seiko Spb 62mas so I don’t feel like it’s worth getting something that’s so similar. In videos and on wrist, it doesn’t look that small and i love the smaller size, and the t-fit. On the fly micro adjust is a deal breaker for me getting a luxury piece.
I'm not sure mid-size watches have ever been OUT, have they? Certainly not outside of the casual/dress watch category. The 36mm DateJust is still, by far and away, the most popular watch in the Rolex line-up. I think if you choose a watch size on a measurement spec you have read, well, there is a high chance that you will be disappointed. A 36mm DJ wears like a 39mm watch as an example. And obviously wrist size...saying a 36mm everyday watch or 37mm diver is "too small".....too small to whom?
me
I think mid-size watches were out for a while, at least to non-enthusiasts. I wore my DJ36 a lot from 2010-2018 and was told several times by people that they liked the watch, but they wished it was bigger. The only younger people (those in their 20s and 30s) I saw wearing watches smaller than 40mm during that time period were women.
The 42 Pelagos could resist a pressure of up to 7350psi. The 39 could only support 3000psi. It is a big structural difference between both watches. The cristal and the case of the 39 will be crushed at 7000psi. They are not the same.
What strap was that Pelagos 39 on.Thanks👍.
I’d love to see the new 54 in blue
Heat of the moment
Heat of the moment
Heat of the moment
Minute tracker and red triangle wins for me. I don’t care what is the size of the watch as long it’s a 40mm or under. On my 7.25 inch wrist I can wear anything from 34mm and up
@@IDKline nope
I’ve never understood why people are bothered by the faux rivets. I never look at the ends of the links.
I agree, plus I like the vintage styling
The lugs on the 54 look too thick in my opinion - makes the case look like the old Maxi Rolex cases on the sub and GMT. It means that the bracelet doesn't flow into the watch head properly.
I ordered the 54 and then turned it down at my AD. The rivet bracelet, yes, always annoying. the 54 is also just quite an underwhelming watch I think. Bit dull in the metal.
Rolex has a 37mm though not a diver - Aquastar has a 37mm diver watch that has been selling well in the past year, Rado Captain Cook 37 mm diver another popular diver
the rivet bracelet adds character and differentiation from rolex. why would any one want a normal oyster bracelet ?
Its like the sean connery james bond watch so of course its popular..
The more i look at the bb54 the more i find the bb58 oddly proportioned and funny looking for some reason
I own the 36mm omega
Great informative vid! You have an awesome collection too
you definitely have watched videos like:
"the 43mm navitimer does wear smaller and does not look too large on my 6.5' wrist' - 43mm is the perfect size
" i dont like watches over 40mm but the 49.5 lug to lug of the seamaster makes it very wearable" - 42mm is the perfect size
"iwc pilot chronograph 41 is ideal on my 7.25" wrist, does not feel diminutive" - 41mm is the perfect size
"the speedmaster 57 wears more comfortable than the seamaster because of the smaller case size" - 40mm is the perfect size
"pelogos 39 is the perfect dive watch" - 39mm is the perfect size
"38mm is the perfect size for zenith chronomaster original this kind of watch" - 38mm is perfect size
"i thought BB54 would be too small but i just like how it disappears on my wrist" - 37mm is perfect size
"datejust 41 looks like a dinner plate on my wrist" - 36mm is perfect size
Love your review! Thank you!
Anytime!
Small is in again!
Thanks for the review, it's interesting seeing the comparisons. To my eyes the bb54 looks smaller than the explorer because of the comparative dial size. I just find it a bit too small and also a step back in character from the bb58. I suspect once the excitement of the release is over it will be a luke warm watch like the BB pro. Great that they are offering this option for people that prefer it though, it's a great move.
Faux rivets removed in 2024 and this is almost flawless. If they increase the price and throw in the rubber strap that would be neat!
I ain't going under 39mm tbh.
MAYBE 38 if it's still a bulky watch or one that i really like. But i had a 37mm Seiko5 and it was comically small on the wrist.
And now imagine that they put the Mercedes hourr hand:)
The new Burgundy on jubilee is a way better choice 🤩🤩🤩
That’s going to be slightly broader and bigger
Now not as thick too
54"s are down to £2200 full set on the private market They are NOT getting £2600 !!
subscribed!
Welcome aboard!
The white indices on the bezel are a bit odd to me... It doesn't marry with the watch. I would prefer it to be gilted as the dial is. BB58 all the way
"Black Bay 54 - Are Mid-Size Watches IN Now?" No. Well, maybe for small people. I don't buy anything under 42mm.
How big are you?
Tony soprano wore a 36. Dinner plate watches are a fairly new phenomenon that’ll likely go out of style hard.
Yes because watches are generally mass-produced luxury items ... they have to keep people buying... so when people get tired of big watches they start to make them smaller. Give this crazed five or ten years ago start making them bigger again. I love watches but it's a pretty shallow hobby for 95% of people that buy Rolex in a mega and so forth. Probably 95 out of 100 people wouldn't know if they have a cheap giant movement in their Rolex yet they spend countless hours talking about movements and that's why they bought the watch blah blah blah.
New sub
Welcome aboard!
i think prince william wears the 40/41mm, not the 36mm. i might be wrong though...
36.25mm 👍🏽
@@ottyman1 online the opinions are divided, some results same midsize some say the 41mm...? Anyway, confirmed is the quartz version.