Debuting in 2018, the Tudor Black Bay GMT reference 79830RB-0001 inaugurated the brand’s modern flyer GMT series within a 41mm stainless steel case. The bidirectional rotatable bezel utilizes anodized aluminum inserts in matte burgundy and blue, a colorway historically developed in the 1950s to differentiate daylight and nighttime hours for commercial aviators. Presented on its factory riveted steel bracelet, the case measures 14.5mm thick to accommodate the internal dual-time mechanics.
The domed matte black dial is highly legible, featuring the angular "Snowflake" hands that first appeared on Tudor divers supplied to the Marine Nationale. Powering the watch is the Kenissi-manufactured Calibre MT5652, a COSC-certified chronometer operating at 4Hz with a silicon balance spring. This self-winding movement provides a 70-hour power reserve and enables the wearer to jump the local hour hand forward or backward without stopping the seconds hand.
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 / 10 | Great Condition, Visible Wear Production: 2021 Contents: Full-set Genre: Sports Watch
Size: 41mm Thickness: approx. 15mm Lug Width: approx. 22mm
Case: Stainless steel, brushed and mirrored finish, minor wear Bezel: Stainless steel, bidirectional, matte red and blue insert, minor wear Dial: Black matte dial, applied hour markers Hands: Steel, Snowflake hands, red GMT hand
Crown: Stainless steel, screw-down crown, minor wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, domed, minor wear Bracelet: Stainless steel riveted bracelet, minor wear Caseback: Stainless steel, solid, screw-down, minor wear Movement: Automatic GMT Chronometer Caliber: MT5652