Tudor Introduces The New Black Bay 54 In Blue
It’s been three years since Tudor surprised us with the Black Bay 54. The smallest of the Black Bay models has since become a popular option for people who love a modestly sized Tudor dive watch. The new addition to the lineup comes with a nice sapphire-blue dial and bezel. It’s a color that really suits the smallest Black Bay model. Let’s find out more.
When the Black Bay 54 was first unveiled three years ago, we were all surprised that Tudor would go smaller than the Black Bay 58. But downsizing the 39mm case to a 37mm size proved to be a smart move, as Thomas explained. Fans quickly embraced the Black Bay 54 for its classic look and proportions rooted in the brand’s history. The model takes inspiration from the first Tudor Submariner ref. 7922, a watch that goes all the way back to the beginning of the brand’s history in diving. It’s a story that now continues with the Black Bay 54 in blue.
The details of the new blue Tudor Black Bay 54
Let’s talk specs first. This new Black Bay 54 variant uses the familiar 37mm stainless steel case, which has a 46mm to-lug, an 11.2mm total thickness, and a 200m water resistance rating. This slender case is paired with a sunray sapphire-blue dial, and the bezel features an aluminum insert in the same blue color. The dial features applied indexes with white Super-LumiNova, and the signature Snowflake handset is also filled with white lume. Thankfully, the markers and numerals on the bezel are silver, which keeps the overall aesthetic clean and contemporary.
Inside the case, Tudor equips this new blue Black Bay 54 with its Kenissi-produced caliber MT5400. The automatic movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, has 27 jewels, and offers a healthy 70-hour power reserve. It’s also a COSC-certified chronometer, which means it has an accuracy of -4 to +6 seconds per day. With Tudor gradually updating its calibers to Master Chronometer status, it will be interesting to see when the brand will also upgrade the one in the Black Bay 54. For now, the MT5400 is a perfectly reliable movement to power the smallest Black Bay diver.
Options, prices, and initial impressions
When it comes to strap options, Tudor offers the latest Black Bay 54 with either the familiar Oyster-style stainless steel bracelet or a black rubber strap. Both options come equipped with the brand’s T-fit clasp, which makes it easy to size the watch. On the bracelet, the blue Black Bay 54 costs €4,350 / US$4,725 / CHF 3,850, and on the rubber strap, it retails for €4,130 / US$4,475 / CHF 3,650.
Overall, this is a great second addition to the regular Black Bay 54 lineup. The new sapphire-blue hue is rooted in the brand’s history with the French Marine Nationale. As a result, the new release will undoubtedly be welcomed with open arms by Tudor fans. While far from revolutionary, this new Black Bay 54 in blue is a smart move by Tudor that we love. It is a nice celebration of the brand’s rich dive-watch history. Let us know what you think of it in the comments below!
