TUDOR Black Bay 58: History and features of an iconic collection
The TUDOR Black Bay 58 collection holds a prominent place in the Swiss brand’s catalogue thanks to its heritage-inspired design, proportions and technical performance.
Since its launch in 2018, the Black Bay 58 collection has added new versions, materials and movements, while retaining the aesthetic elements that defined the original model.
Its evolution reflects TUDOR’s commitment to reinterpreting its watchmaking heritage through designs that preserve references to the past while embracing the advances of contemporary watchmaking.
History and evolution of the TUDOR Black Bay 58 collection
The TUDOR Black Bay 58 collection takes its name from 1958, the year in which the Swiss brand launched the Oyster Prince Submariner reference 7924, known as the “Big Crown”, which served as the inspiration for its design.
Although it shares TUDOR’s diving watch tradition with the Pelagos collection, the two follow different approaches. While Pelagos prioritises technical performance and functionality for professional diving, Black Bay 58 opts for a classically inspired aesthetic.
The first Black Bay 58 model, reference 79030N, arrived with a 39 mm stainless steel case, black dial, matching bezel and gilt details.
In 2020, the collection was expanded with the Black Bay 58 Navy Blue, reference 79030B, which featured a blue dial and bezel.
In 2021, TUDOR introduced three versions in different materials.
The Black Bay 58 925, made in 925 silver with a taupe-grey dial, and the Black Bay 58 18K, crafted in 18-carat yellow gold with a green dial, featured open case backs that reveal their movements.
They were joined by the Black Bay 58 Bronze, with a bronze case and bracelet and a brown gradient dial. Bronze develops a distinctive patina over time.
Black Bay 58 Bronze M79012M-0001
The evolution continued in 2024 with the arrival of the Black Bay 58 GMT, which added a second time zone function.
Black Bay 58 GMT M7939G1A0NRU-0001
That same year, the brand unveiled a new configuration of the Black Bay 58 18K with a solid gold bracelet.
In 2025, TUDOR launched a version with a burgundy dial and bezel, inspired by a 1990s Submariner reference 79190 prototype that never went into production. This model features METAS Master Chronometer certification.
In 2026, the collection saw an update to the Black Bay 58 in black, with a redesigned 11.7 mm-thick case, a METAS-certified movement and new bracelet options. A five-link bracelet option was also added to the Black Bay 58 GMT.
Design and features of Black Bay 58 watches
One of the defining traits of the Black Bay 58 is its 39 mm diameter case, found across the different versions in the collection.
Its proportions and relatively slim profile contribute to a balanced aesthetic, particularly appreciated by those who prefer sports watches of moderate dimensions.
Its design incorporates recognisable elements from TUDOR’s history, such as the domed sapphire crystal, the screw-down crown and the distinctive “Snowflake” hands.
The standard versions feature a unidirectional rotating bezel for timing dives, while the GMT models use a bidirectional 24-hour bezel.
Movements and certifications of TUDOR Black Bay 58 watches
The evolution of the Black Bay 58 can also be seen in its in-house self-winding mechanical movements.
The first steel versions were fitted with Manufacture Calibre MT5402, certified by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), while the 925, 18K and Bronze versions use the MT5400. These movements offer a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
The most recent models, such as the burgundy TUDOR Black Bay 58, reference M7939A1A0RU, and the Black Bay 58, reference M7939A1A0NU, introduced Manufacture Calibre MT5400-U, with a 65-hour power reserve and Master Chronometer certification from the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).
This certification assesses the performance of the fully assembled watch through tests of precision, water resistance, power reserve and magnetic resistance of up to 15,000 gauss.
As for the Black Bay 58 GMT, it is fitted with Manufacture Calibre MT5450-U, also certified by COSC and METAS, with an integrated GMT function and a 65-hour power reserve.
Materials of the Black Bay 58 collection
Over the years, TUDOR has introduced new materials to the Black Bay 58 collection, offering versions with their own finishes and characteristics.
Stainless steel retains the sporty character of the original model, while 925 silver offers a distinctive tone and finish.
Bronze introduces an evolving aesthetic, as its surface naturally oxidises over time.
Meanwhile, 18-carat yellow gold places the Black Bay 58 in a more exclusive segment, while preserving its historically inspired design.
Added to these differences are the various bracelet and strap options, including three- and five-link designs and configurations equipped with the TUDOR “T-fit” rapid-adjustment clasp.
The TUDOR Black Bay 58 collection available at The Red House
Discover the TUDOR collections at The Red House in Gibraltar and explore their different models, designs and features up close.
