Tudor launches the new Black Bay Chrono 'Flamingo Blue', whose name recalls the turquoise colour characteristic of the waters of South Beach, which are also loved by flamingos (not blue).
Can colour redefine the identity of a watch? Tudor responds with a firm yes, presenting the new Black Bay Chrono 'Flamingo Blue', a bold interpretation that brings a breath of Miami to the Geneva-based manufacturer's catalogue. It is not the first time that Tudor has played with unexpected shades - the recent Black Bay Chrono Pink bears witness to this - but this time it goes further, merging the blue of tropical waters with the sporty DNA of its flagship chronograph.
The choice of name is already a declaration of intent. That vibrant turquoise of the domed dial, which obviously does not belong to the flamingos, immediately evokes the crystal-clear waters of South Beach where these elegant birds are at home. It is an association that works precisely because it challenges the obvious.
But the Black Bay Chrono is much more than an exercise in style. Under the ocean-coloured dial beats the IWC-manufactured MT5813 calibre, a movement that tells a story of collaboration and innovation. Developed on the basis of Breitling's B01, but equipped with a proprietary Tudor regulating organ, this automatic chronograph boasts high-end features: column wheel, vertical engagement and an accuracy that exceeds the COSC standards of -2 to +4 seconds per day. This is not trivial, considering that the official certification allows a wider tolerance, between -4 and +6 seconds.
Tudor Black Bay Chrono 'Flamingo Blue': turquoise and black dial
After last year's Black Bay Chrono Pink, the Geneva-based company continues to play with colours.
The attention to detail extends to the bracelet, where Tudor introduces the 'T-fit' system, a solution that allows the length to be adjusted by up to 8 millimetres without tools. A detail that might seem marginal, but which reveals an understanding of the needs of the everyday watch wearer.
The 41-millimetre 316L steel case retains the classic proportions of the Black Bay, with the characteristic 'Snowflake' hands - a distinctive feature of Tudor dive watches since 1969 -. now improved to ensure maximum readability on the new dial. Concave black counters create an effective contrast recalling the brand's first chronographs.
Interestingly, Tudor is building a new identity precisely through these bold reinterpretations. If the Black Bay Chrono Pink of 2024 paved the way, this 'Flamingo Blue' version consolidates a precise direction: that of a brand that is not afraid to reinvent its codes while maintaining strong technical roots. A challenge to convention that does not sacrifice substance: The movement is chronometer-certified, water resistance is up to 200 metres and there is a five-year warranty, transferable and without the need for registration, confirms the brand's confidence in its product. Details reminiscent of how, behind an unexpectedly coloured dial, there is all the solidity of a manufacture that since 1926 has made accessible quality its mantra.
How will the market assess this new proposal? If the success of the 'Pink' is any indicator, Tudor seems to have found the right formula to speak to a public that seeks technical but unconventional watches. After all, as Hans Wilsdorf, the founder, said, it is about producing watches with Rolex quality at a lower price.
Price6,050 euro.