Tudor Black Bay Steel 79730 Review

Tudor released a new movement in 2015 with the North Flag Sport and Pelagos models. The new Black Bay Steel houses the same movement as these models - Tudor’s Inhouse Calibre MT5612, which has a 70 hour power reserve, equipped with a silicon hairspring. Of course, it's COSC certified as noted on the dial.

Most updates to the Tudor Heritage Black Bay in the recent years have focused on the material or color scheme including the Black Bay Bronze, Black Bay Steel & Gold and the recent Black Bay Dark.The Tudor Black Bay Steel was released at Baselworld in 2017 to round out the collection that offers something for everyone. The red accents and other new feature tribute the vintage Rolex & Tudor subs.

Features carried over from the previous version do include the same case size and design we well as the anti-reflective, domed sapphire crystal and Tudor rose engraved crown. The bezel insert is made of steel versus the previous aluminum one. The steel will add a measure of scratch resistance. Our favorite detail is the inverted red triangle on the bezel which credits the earliest Rolex & Tudor subs as well as adds to that vintage vibe.

The dial itself is similar as well to its predecessors including the steel rimmed snowflake hands and Tudor shield (identifying factors of Tudor models). The major difference is the date window now resides where the 3 o’clock marker previously was. Lacking a cyclops lens, the date window is not obstructive or distracting. The text is slightly different as well with the red text noting the waterproof distance (200m : 660 ft).

Tudor has made such minute changes to this well-known watch lineup that has a significant impact on the overall look and feel. The steel elements of the bezel and bracelet not only give the model its name but also its distinct vintage-inspired tool watch vibe. The steel riveted bracelet also sets this model apart. Inspired by the 1950s/1960s style, this modern interpretation is more comfortable with curved links verses flat ones. It also incorporates a micro-adjuster within the clasp.

At the price point for this model, it is incredibly rare to see an in-house movement, but Tudor has always strived to be moderately priced. The Tudor Black Bay Steel is offered with the riveted-style bracelet which adds to the vintage military style but with modern functionality and adjustability. The watch is available with a distressed black leather strap, and additionally, both include a canvas NATO style strap in olive green.

Being a dive watch though, a water-resistant rubber strap that perfect meets the case is any Tudor Black Bay Steel owner’s dream - and Everest has one!

Check out Everest’s line of Swiss-Made Vulcanized Rubber Watch Bands for Tudor Heritage Black Bays & Tudor Chronographs!