The new generation TUDOR Black Bay watch (reference 7941A1A0RU) is a technical and aesthetic evolution of the emblematic diving watch with a burgundy bezel.
Equipped with the newly launched Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U, this automatic watch in stainless steel features evolved design elements, a “T-fit” clasp. Moreover it is Master Chronometer-certified by METAS.
The original TUDOR Black Bay (reference 79220R) was launched in 2012 with a burgundy bezel. In 2016, the brand updated this emblematic diver with the Manufacture Calibre MT5602, and launched the references 79230B, 79230N & 79230R.
Tested by the Federal Institute of Metrology or METAS, the new generation Black Bay brings together cutting-edge watchmaking technology with design elements inspired by TUDOR’s nearly seven-decade heritage of making robust professional diving watches.
TUDOR Black Bay Reference 7941A1A0RU
With the introduction of new Black Bay Reference 7941A1A0RU, TUDOR has successfully submitted yet another Black Bay model for tests to obtain a Master Chronometer certification. This is the third application of this standard to a watch in the TUDOR collection, and a step towards a future where the entire collection is METAS certified.
The Black Bay with burgundy bezel remains one of TUDOR’s most recognized and recognizable models. In its latest iteration, named Black Bay, the case keeps the original proportions of a 41mm in diameter case with a thinner profile.
The unidirectional rotatable bezel in stainless steel has fluted sides for better grip. The burgundy colour insert shows subtly curved numerals aligning with the outline of the outer ring.
The satin black dial is subtly radial-brushed for a very subtle shine under direct light. The seconds hand recalls the look of the early diving watches of the brand with a lollipop design.
Ergonomics have evolved as well, with a redesigned crown, reminiscent of the curves found on the crowns of the brand’s historical technical watches.
Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U
The Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U, which powers the Black Bay, displays hour, minute and seconds functions. It features dedicated sun laser design and bears the Master Chronometer mention on its bridges, emphasising its distinctive performance.
The rotor is fashioned in tungsten monobloc and is openworked. It also features the distinctive laser radial grooving with sand-blasted details. Its bridges and mainplate have alternate sand-blasted and polished surfaces and laser decorations.
To ensure robustness and precision, the variable inertia balance wheel is maintained by a sturdy traversing bridge with two-point anchoring. This system together with its non-magnetic silicon hairspring, enabling the Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U function within a tolerance range of 5 seconds (0/+5) tested on a fully assembled watch.
The power reserve of the Manufactur eCalibre MT5602-U Calibre is 70 hours, and it has been certified for 70 hours by METAS.
Black Bay Bracelet and Straps
The new Black Bay watch comes with either an entirely satin-brushed three-link steel bracelet or a five-oval-shaped-link brushed and polished steel bracelet, both complete with the TUDOR “T-fit” clasp equipped with a system for rapid length adjustment.
Easy to use, requiring no tools and offering five positions, this practical system allows wearers to carry out a fine, instant adjustment of the total length of the bracelet along an adjustment window of 8mm. The clasp features ceramic ball bearings that ensure a smooth and secure closure in addition to adding a pleasing tactile element to the action of the clasp.
A black rubber strap option is also available for the Black Bay. The strap comes in three sizes complete with TUDOR “T-fit” clasp, and for the perfect fit, it is able to be cut down to the exact size of the wearer’s wrist.
On the inside it features the signature snowflake motif for added grip.
About METAS Master Chronometer Certification
METAS Master Chronometer certification is comprehensive and covers the main functional characteristics of a watch including precision, resistance to magnetic fields, waterproofness and power reserve.
Its standards are incredibly high, starting with precision. In order to qualify, a watch must be able to function within a 5-second range of variation each day (0 +5), that is to say 5 seconds less than the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) (-4 +6) carried out on a single movement. Interestingly, TUDOR’s internal standard applicable to the brand’s models with a Manufacture Calibre is -2 +4.
The certification also guarantees the timekeeping accuracy of a watch subjected to magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss. Finally, it also guarantees that the waterproof capability claimed by the manufacturer conforms to the ISO standard 22810:2010, as does the power reserve of each Master Chronometer watch.
It should also be noted that two prerequisites are necessary before the certification can be obtained: Swiss manufacturing must conform to the criteria of Swiss Made, and the movement must be certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
Criteria and Tests for METAS Certification
- Swiss Made
- Certification by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC)
- Precision at two temperatures, in six different positions and at two different levels of power reserve: 100% and 33%
- Smooth functioning when exposed to a magnetic field of 15,000 gauss and precision following exposure
- Waterproof to 200m (660 ft) in accordance with ISO standard 22810:2010
- 70-hour power reserve
Technical details
Model: TUDOR BLACK BAY Reference 7941A1A0RU
Case
41mm stainless steel case with polished and satin finish
60-minute unidirectional bezel in stainless steel with aluminium insert
Stainless steel screw-down crown with the TUDOR rose in relief
Domed sapphire crystal
Waterproof to 200m (660 ft)
Movement
Manufacture Calibre MT5602-U
Self-winding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system
Swiss chronometer officially certified by COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute)
Master Chronometer Certification from METAS
Total diameter: 31.8mm
Thickness: 6.5mm
25 jewels
Variable inertia balance, micro-adjustment by screw
Non-magnetic silicon balance spring
Frequency: 28 800 beats/hour (4 Hz)
Power Reserve: Certified 70 hours by METAS
Functions
Centre hour, minute and seconds hands
Stop-seconds for precise time setting
Dial
Black, domed
Bracelet
Three-link or five-link stainless steel bracelets with polished and satin finish, or rubber strap, all with TUDOR “T-fit” clasp
