The Black Bay Pro's primary aesthetic inspiration is the Rolex Explorer II, reference 1655, which was produced from 1971. The most direct parallels are the fixed, satin-brushed steel bezel with a 24-hour graduated scale and the prominent, angular yellow 24-hour "Snowflake" hand.
While the 79470 borrows the 39mm case diameter and concept from the Rolex 1655, it is differentiated by Tudor's proprietary design language. The watch uses Tudor's "Snowflake" hands for the local hour, minute, and GMT functions, a design hallmark taken from Tudor's Submariners of the 1970s. Its powered by Tudor's MT5652 COSC-certified automatic movement.
Conceived in 1926 by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf, Tudor’s original mission was to offer the dependability of a Rolex at a more accessible price point, initially utilizing robust third-party movements within Rolex-supplied Oyster cases. The brand forged its own distinct identity through military adoption, most notably by the French Marine Nationale.
The modern era, heralded by the successful Black Bay collection, saw Tudor masterfully reinterpret this rich heritage for a modern audience. Their revival is strengthened by a strategic shift to produce calibres in-house, solidifying Tudor’s transition into a fully integrated watchmaker.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2022 Contents: Full-set Genre: Sports Watch
Size: 39mm Thickness: 14.6mm Lug Width: 20mm
Case: Stainless steel, mirrored sides and bevel, brushed upper lugs, light wear Bezel: Stainless steel 24-hour fixed GMT bezel, brushed finish, light wear Dial: Black matte grained dial, printed lume markers and tracks Hands: Matte-textured Snowflake hands, lumed, with yellow GMT hand
Crown: Signed steel screw-down crown, light wear Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal, light wear Bracelet: Riveted steel bracelet, light wear Caseback: Solid, screwed-down steel caseback, light wear Movement: Automatic GMT Chronometer Caliber: MT5652