Tudor Black Bay Chrono vs Tudor Black Bay
Ref. M79360N-0001 vs Ref. M79230R-0012
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono and Tudor Black Bay both carry the Tudor name but serve different purposes — the Tudor Black Bay Chrono as a chronograph and the Tudor Black Bay as a dive watch. At $5,825 and $4,100 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Tudor
Black Bay Chrono
Tudor
Black Bay
At retail, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono is listed at $5,825 while the Tudor Black Bay comes in at $4,100. The Tudor Black Bay saves you $1,725 (42% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Tudor Black Bay Chrono trades around $5,534 and the Tudor Black Bay around $3,690, a difference of $1,844 favoring the Tudor Black Bay. Currently holding steady at just 5% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Tudor Black Bay shows a more modest market premium of -10.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono edges ahead with a flip potential score of 3/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Tudor Black Bay Chrono | Tudor Black Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.4mm | 12.7mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Fixed bezel with tachymeter scale in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with anodized aluminium insert in burgundy |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal | Domed sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 200m / 660ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Tudor Calibre MT5813 | Tudor Calibre MT5602 |
| Movement Type | Automatic chronograph | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel with riveted-style links | Stainless steel with riveted-style links |
| Clasp | Folding clasp with safety catch | Folding clasp with safety catch and micro-adjustment |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Tudor Black Bay Chrono features 14.4mm for case thickness compared to the Tudor Black Bay's 12.7mm. With 3 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono costs $135 versus $90 for the Tudor Black Bay. For water resistance, the Tudor Black Bay delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Black Bay offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Tudor Black Bay Chrono if you value stronger flip potential, better value retention, timing functionality. Go with the Tudor Black Bay if you prioritize a lower entry price, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono or the Tudor Black Bay?
The Tudor Black Bay is more accessible, priced at $4,100 compared to $5,825.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono has a higher flip potential score of 3/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono currently trades at 5.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Tudor Black Bay Chrono and Tudor Black Bay compare in size?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono measures 41mm in diameter and 14.4mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay is 41mm by 12.7mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono uses the Tudor Calibre MT5813 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Black Bay runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5602 offering 70 hours of power reserve.