Review: A Modern Diver With Vintage Appeal | The Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight

For the full review, go to: www.hodinkee.c...
There is no archetype in the history of horology that has generated more variations, more interpretations, and more attempts at reinvention than the mid-century dive watch. I don't even have to say the names of the watches that started this genre, since you probably spoke them out loud to yourself at the end of my previous sentence. But it's fair to say that for many people, this is what they think of when someone says the word "watch." The mid-century dive watch, with its rotating timing bezel, it's clean, no-fuss dial, and its sturdy case and bracelet profile, transcends any one watch at this point. It's an idea as much as a thing itself.
That's why a watch like the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight is so interesting to me. Tudor essentially created its modern update to the dive watch in 2012, with the introduction of the Heritage Black Bay. At the time, it was just one watch, but in the nearly eight years since, it's grown into a family of watches at Tudor and a formula for other brands to follow. But while the Black Bay takes a number of cues from old-school dive watches, it doesn't make any attempt to actually be one. It's 41mm across, it's relatively thick, and it's styled in such a way that you'd never mistake it for something from the 1950s. The Black Bay Fifty-Eight is something different entirely.

[@FINEST-uz9ek]

I gifted this watch to myself as a retirement present and I absolutely LOVE it. You are 100% correct the gold tones add a warmth to it which is also highlighted by the red pip.

[@relosapulso]

do u still wear it?

[@fabiansuarez523]

The perfect watch, truly a gem. Not only the looks but the movement superb

[@user-uf6fg9lz9l]

I have the watch for 4 months now, and it still gets me every time i wear it. Awsome watch.

[@nodieusa]

same...

[@zollyclaman]

שלום אחי:)

[@silveriver9]

I hope they make it with a ceramic bezel.

[@yahyas]

Have mine since about 5 months. Still in love every time i look at it. This is a real classic but a modern one.

[@nathanf1934]

I'm very confident this guy does not require a durable watch.

[@TekaDon]

Nathan F haha. A NY dandy “needs” a tul Watch because he’s on the move.

[@ebiedog]

Haha.

[@richardwarren2024]

“You can enjoy it with a sweater and a jacket” - how does that not scream “I need a tough wearing watch?” Lol

[@nfalker7671]

Lol

[@brianafuang463]

"I would describe myself as being always on the go. Whether hopping on a plane to do a story in Europe or running around New York City...." The trouble with watch writers? After a while they begin to think they really are journalists.

[@KleinAB]

they need to "report on" new watches? I mean each manufacturer has a press release and ad campaign dedicated to new models. But sure.....

[@rerikm]

it's called passive bragging

[@abishaakmal7455]

less risk with larger pay, im in...

[@AlbertoLopez-uz2mt]

Tell me you’re jealous without telling you’re jealous 😂😂😂

[@phmwu7368]

A Tudor watch needs a heraldic Tudor rose on the dial... vintage is the way to go!

[@lapizza7206]

I'm in love with this watch it reminds me on connery's rolex! I hope they re make the gmt pepsi and other black bay colors in this size because I NEED to buy more.

[@walkerb1734]

I just bought the new blue version of this. Stunning! Can't recommend it enough

[@zenooflondon]

This video felt like an advert. I’m not saying it was, but it definitely felt like one.

[@ClaxtonBay123]

Zero negatives listed definitely makes it sound like an AD. I agree with you.

[@Photoandcargeek]

@@ClaxtonBay123 That is because negatives are often a little silly. Sure you can think that nothing is perfect and that everything has ups and downs ... Or you can acknowledge that nothing is perfect and be happy with what you have. The truth about watch is that most of them are great nowadays, far better than vintage watches, we have mastered the art of cases, straps, bracelets and movements a few decades ago. And yes, I love my spring drive or my omega 8900 co axial but, in real every day life, I have a 2824-2 top grade (adjusted to chronometer specs) which does +1s a day and that movement serves me as well as the 8900. And I would say the same about a Seiko Presage with a 6R15. All these watches work perfectly well, some are prettier than others, but they are all perfectly good watches that can beat most vintage watches on tech specs and accuracy. So finding negatives is either nitpicking or the sign of eternal frustration. As to the BB58, it is great and part of my collection with much more expensive and much cheaper watches.

[@ianmedium]

Zeno of London well, I think they sell them so it probably is. Hard to tell anymore with them as they are so heavily into retail now over objective reporting, notice the product placement also of Leica which they have just started selling also. I don’t come here any more for objective reviews as they simply do not clarify between advert or independent review bu it’s still nice to get good quality images of watches which they are good at. They need to be careful though as YT has some stiff rules about not being clear on this sort of thing, as a dealer of these watches I treat this as an advert.

[@rustydrog]

Welcome to Hodinkee

[@theJade]

In a Hodinkee radio episode, SJP stated this watch as his choice pick for modern sports watch. The fact that there are no negatives from him honestly comes at no surprise.

[@DarrenPhung9816]

I just walked into my AD today and they had JUST put it out on display so I had to scoop it up. I am absolutely in love with it

[@Unknown-yx3ky]

Breaking news: BB 58 review in December of 2019. Someone just got off the wait list 🤣

[@o0jun0o]

hodinkee business model is changing. They used to be about good journalism of watches but now feels like they have an agenda to sell watches. meh

[@Zanpaa]

It's a lifestyle blog and watch shop now. I recommand "watches by sjx" for journalism.

[@alexhamilton5792]

It pains me to say it, simply because I've been a fan of Hodinkee for so long now, but I have to agree. I have no problem with them bringing in more profit and being successful-- I just wish they could do it with more clear delineation between those efforts and their journalistic pursuits.

[@Robert.Dickson]

Dave Mendoza they’ve never charged me once for any of their content. Look at the big picture guyS. How the f**k else can they continue without generating revenue?

[@JCW80]

@Dave Mendoza Toyota didn't start out as a car reviewing publication that morphed into a retailer. I agree with the OP on his point. I don't begrudge H being successful, but for those of us who have been enjoying their content for a decade or more, H is so deep in bed with the industry at this point that I for one don't put stock in any "review" they write any more.

[@996rick]

Hodinkee doesn't sell Tudor

[@make.oxtail.cheap.again1]

I love my 58 so much its unbelievable

[@ElijsDima]

Closest thing to a vintage submariner, honestly, would be Silver Watch Co's "Archetype 1".

[@CrisChen]

Too bad they moved their directions. The HAQ is something novody asked for...

[@snowman01]

Honestly, I love how they referenced the diving utility of the bezel despite that about 0.01% of viewers care. Seriously, I appreciate it given it's a dive watch.

[@Sebbson1337]

I've had mine for about 14 months now, superb watch in every way. I got a little "Aha" moment watching this clip, when I saw "Swiss made" below the chapter ring at 6 o'clock. I hadn't noticed that before :)

[@SP-fb1qb]

The best watch tudor makes , my wrists at 8” so it works with the standard bb size but those little changes make a big difference

[@xiixiixx808080]

Beautiful photography 👍

[@b.vonschnauser207]

"The Black Bay 58 by Tudor. Now available virtually nowhere"

[@gandrew5363]

B. Von Schnauser lol just bought mine from joma before they go up in value haha

[@davidmagliaro3531]

Went to the AD yesterday and they have 3 Fifty Eight’s and 3 GMT’s in stock. Think I like the fifty-eight better than the GMT.

[@stevetrabajo9685]

@@davidmagliaro3531 3 GMT????

[@davidmagliaro3531]

@@stevetrabajo9685 yes sir one on the metal bracelet and 2 on the different straps.

[@JL-qj4pi]

Was in Europe back in December 2019 (different world back then) and saw 58s in every shop I visited. Holiday season and everyone was buying, you guessed it, Rolex. Hype has died down for the 58 I think.

[@jmcassonetto]

I use to use my tag heur for diving cuz of the raised bezel for when i wore gloves..but mostly only time I use the bezel is to set for the parking meter duration...& my chronograph watch for timing eggs/cooking- otherwise, appearance & sturdiness will probably be main reason for a non diver to wear one daily.

[@davidmorais2394]

And the gilt edging makes it a cool watch for the whole trip. I like that about it.

[@GermanGonzalez]

Love it. Great bang for buck. Good luck finding one at an AD without having to wait forever.

[@denniskwok7613]

The waiting list isn't that long any more. Just a few weeks, if that. In the UK, you can find them in shop windows for sale.

[@gmshadowtraders]

@@denniskwok7613 Which stores in the uk?

[@ginotang]

Just when the BB58 hype was kinda dying down, they release this... Now I'll definetly be on another "wait list" 😣

[@biscuitsalive]

“Not to mention all the hype surrounding this watch” ... hmmmm that doesn’t seem like a USP to me. Puts me off more than anything. But I have to say it looks pretty nice.

[@maxolson]

you need a durable watch for running in NYC? what have we become..

[@theplasticdesert2408]

maxolson all he needs now is the man bun

[@996rick]

Just FYI, he's comparing it to wearing a true vintage watch, which are fragile and give many pause to work out or get caught in the rain in. This is that look minus the second guessing of activity.

[@Desh727]

I know. I thought I needed a durable watch because I put cranes together lmao. My seamaster only gets about 1 noticable scratch per year.

[@dr.emilschaffhausen4683]

You need a throwaway watch for running in NYC.

[@stuartcole4845]

It’s also why he needs the bezel to be easy to turn - so he can time how long it has taken his barista to make his soy latte before he has a hissy fit.

[@hbueain]

I kinda wish the dial is glossy, but otherwise a near perfect watch. Hodinkee please make more videos!!

[@Hiluxtaco]

Please make a non-rose gold version, Tudor...

[@Photoandcargeek]

Please make a green one because I prefer my bb58 to my BB Harrods edition.

[@Hiluxtaco]

@@Photoandcargeek A green or blue bezel version would be great...

[@stevekillen2777]

Yes please.

[@CH-yp5by]

Please make a white gold version with with a bezel made of ceramic or mineral crystal as the aluminium scratches.

[@nolesrule84]

My fav watch by far...

[@CrialCrial]

BB58 is the perfect size. I hope they release new colors this year.

[@Firrasari]

Hoping to see a BB58 GMT

[@gmshadowtraders]

Rolex won't allow it, sorry.

[@rousseau327]

@@gmshadowtraders If they allowed the BB 58 to contrast the 114060, I don't see why they wouldn't allow a vintage inspire GMT with the BB 58 case.

[@gmshadowtraders]

@@rousseau327 I see the 58 as a complete one-off. Nothing further will be seen from this line ever. They understand the huge demand, and ironically it must end for this very reason. Back to the brick we go.

[@rousseau327]

gmshadowtraders that’s just an opinion, we’ll see what happens. Tudor doesn’t seem to be chasing the exclusivity niche in watches to me

[@gmshadowtraders]

@@rousseau327 Can we agree, that if Tudor/Rolex can't be bothered to do it in 2020, that they'll never do it? 2 years seems a long time just to implement a change to the color of a bezel. But yes, we will see.

[@nodieusa]

I bought mine in 2019 and it finally came off my wrist (now in a rotation) because this week I bought a Seamaster with a white dial to celebrate my 40th birthday. I'm going to enjoy both until I buy my next one on my 50th birthday!

[@Ranghocsing]

I would just say it’s a cool watch and I love it more and more on my wrist

[@GradyPhilpott]

Nice review. It makes me really appreciate my 14060M. If I didn't own my Sub, though, I'd definitely give the BB58 a good, hard look. I also like my BB36.

[@VivaLaBram]

Grady Philpott i have both ! There wear so different - super fun to switch them

[@MrAdreer]

Brilliat, i absoluitely LOVE my BB58

[@treznich]

Great video gents, when will we see a Week on the Wrist for the modern Omega Speedmaster Professional? Seems overdue!

[@beaupindacheese1774]

Tudor is to underrated! I really love my BB GMT and I really want a 58 to maybe replace my Datejust.

[@whereRbearsTeeth]

I think you made a typo. Surely you meant “overrated”

[@badzponad]

Is it an advert??

[@Peter-tc3ep]

Great looking watch, wish Tudor used AR coating on both sides of the crystal though, I’d happily pay a $100 more for that.

[@whereRbearsTeeth]

Why, so the top could get scratched like an omega crystal does?

[@travisjames1263]

What percentage of dive watch purchases are ever used for diving?

[@sunflash101]

I'd be surprised if that number is more than 1%.

[@rousseau327]

With today's diving tech? Doubtful it'd be that many. If people do wear it while diving, it's going to be alongside modern-day diving equipment, as an accessory

[@hb6747]

Still a good amount of true dive watches in my diving club, but it's more just for fun. I've literally never seen anyone check their watch in the water, everyone has dive computers nowadays.

[@Beck-Stein]

0%

[@ClassicalProtestant]

Great job Stephen!!!!

[@christopherjung4911]

It is best to wait until the fine adjustment of the Tudor bronze is also available for this model.

[@MyZippy13]

Just got this today. Put my hulk in it’s box for a while. It’s perfect.

[@JogieGlenMait16]

I love the smaller case diameter.

[@Scaffy88]

Be great to see Tudor relaunch there Tudor submariner ranges. Definitely can see that being massive 👌

[@rdvgrd6]

To me the snowflake hands, the black dial and bezel, the gold accents all scream winter watch to me rather than summer watch

[@UGA.D]

Good video... I don't know I'd call it a "summer watch". An orange Doxa? Perhaps. A Pastel Halios? Definitely. But black, even with gilt accents, is a pretty year-round look.

[@johnepic2422]

Imagine Tudor making a watch that is not a Diver and can be a competitor for the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39. With some golden accents on the dial, maybe a date window, I would go Tudor all the way. It's been so stagnant for a such a long time for both Rolex & Tudor. Time for some news designs!

[@aljack1979]

They have made such a watch

[@alexpenny9416]

by far, my grail watch. brillant video once again

[@petespurgeon7217]

Looks real good, excellent commentary , one question Bezel face & markings / durability. ( aluminum vs ceramic) Thanx. P.S.

[@Alec-sn8on]

Absolutely love this watch.

[@Photoandcargeek]

The newer movement statement is absolutely ridiculous, other than that great watch which is part of my collection with quite a few other Tudors.

[@Sturnburn772]

why is it ridiculous?

[@Photoandcargeek]

@@Sturnburn772 Because it is only 2-3 years younger than the larger model and uses the same technology so it is more or less the same thing just smaller. Also, to my knowledge, it is not like this movement is revolutionary in any way, it is a classic design with a silicon balance spring. So we are not talking co-axial or anything exotic here. And as a last point vaguely related, there are fantastic non exotic designs at ETA which have been designed more than 30 years ago and are still considered excellent movements such as their 2824-2 and their 2892-2 and a 2892-2 with a silicon balance spring would probably be just as good.

[@hanwaisproperty]

I'm not a big Tudor fan, i just see it as boring Rolex's cousin but This One is special. You can def see it on side by side shot with 41 comparison. Much more elegant

[@orronoco524]

Amaizing looking watch, it is looks right even only 39mm?

[@ClassicalProtestant]

TBB58: GOALS!

[@rogerradcliffe6742]

Long since sold on the watch. However Stephen: is that jacket made up in Fox tweed? (Recently advertised on their "Merchant Fox"). Regards from London.

[@ClassicalProtestant]

Great watch...great dimensions.

[@davek8386]

How TF did Hodinkee produce the worst BB58 review?

[@NateTrucker92]

I prefer the 41mm Black Bay, it looks better to me for some reason and the proportions seem more harmonious and I actually like the blocky slab sided case. Also, the gilt dial and hands on the 58 look great as they do on all models but the bezel should be silver and black.....then I'd buy one.

[@Teromi]

NateStevens1992 the hands look better sized in the 41mm too.

[@speedwolf5212]

NateStevens1992 I’m with you, I can’t get on with the gold bezel markers. The designer who took over at Tudor is extremely heavy handed with the (faux) gold.

[@stevekain4707]

didn't know hopping on an Uber ride to JFK requires a durable wristwatch.

[@wuaw2011]

Hey! You guys took a break from being an AD and made a review video!! Unfortunately that model has been out for like two years and has been reviewed by everyone and their grandmother by now. You guys Used to be on a leading edge now your like in uncle that sends a birthday card 8 months after the birthday.

[@ImtianaJones]

Took you guys long enough with this review. It's only been what, 18 months?

[@MrQuadraaa]

you guys are making the best watch ads out there!

[@byergo]

All blue dial and bezel colorway please. Or better yet full blue snowflake milsub!

[@Joe-xo3xy]

we can both dream about that one.

[@ipoomini]

wow so both your wishes came true, did you get the blue one?

[@silveriver9]

I hope they make it with a ceramic bezel.

[@pedrosaenz2800]

BB58 is a very good price value option!!Besides you will not be robbed nor killed for a watch. A real tool watch like Rolex used to be. Now those luxury items are risky to wear.😎👍🏾

[@TheJonCruise]

Love my BB58

[@TZOID08]

I own the 41 mm version and absolutely love it. The BB 58 is still hard to get and especially on bracelet and dealers won't discount them at all. I got 15% off on the 41 mm as well as my Pelagos.

[@whereRbearsTeeth]

41 is way too thick

[@TZOID08]

@@whereRbearsTeeth Says the man with a small wrist

[@gandrew5363]

Great review.

[@spaceactionhero]

Man... the number of times Stephen uses the phrase "as good as it gets" in his videos and articles...

[@HL-OOI]

I prefer with the strap..a brown leather strap matches beautifully with gold..

[@ziyanzhang1735]

One of my all-time favorite watches. And I'm happy it's on my wrist. =)

[@Jungle1048]

What material is the bezel?

[@miketaylor7678]

Perfection.

[@JackHolt_Mattr]

I was pretty sure Hodinkee started carrying Tudor - but since it appears they don't, shouldn't this vid disclose that it's sponsored? If it's not sponsored, that should be disclosed because it sure looks that way.

[@nomansland120]

It's Tudor - it's sponsored. Tudor is a MAJOR sponsor of Hodinkee.

[@JackHolt_Mattr]

@Dave Mendoza I understand that sentiment completely. But if it's sponsored, whoever is generating the content is less likely to highlight any negatives that may dissuade you from buying it.

[@MikeRochac]

Imagine this without the faux rivets.... It would be perfect even without an on the shift adjustable clasp

[@donniejohnston4114]

I have this watch with the blue bezel. Love it and love your videos. Keep it up 👍

[@ravipanjini1253]

Beauty! I'm still favoring the BB 36 though

[@GadgetsforGentlemen]

Great video. Would love to buy it one day soon :)

[@sebastiandavies7321]

What’s your wrist size please thanks for the great review

[@ryanminaker157]

I'd guess 6.2 from the look of the watch

[@soulz23]

Agreed. The best divers watch you can buy bar Rolex Sub. Other brands just follow the styling.

[@27gino27]

Like here to show demand for a new John Mayer talking watches 3 update please!!

[@shouryabhattacharjee6220]

It's just happened a few months back!

[@27gino27]

Shourya Bhattacharjee I mean a number 3. Last one was 8 months ago.

[@shouryabhattacharjee6220]

@@27gino27 that's going to take some time as there was a huge gap between the 1st and 2nd.

[@27gino27]

Shourya Bhattacharjee I think an update about his knowledge and ways he’s helped others with their choices etc would be great, I’m sure his collection has not changed that much, but knowing him he’s bought at least one newbie to show us!

[@shouryabhattacharjee6220]

@@27gino27 that would be pretty cool!

[@MrPopeye722]

I had mine for about a year and loved it. I sold it to put towards having a baby. If they make a 39mm non gilt version, or even better GMT, I would buy it in a heart beat. In the meantime my Doxa 50th anniversary is holding me over.

[@bs11100010]

"trade-off to get the size and thickness down." 79090 - "okay"

[@speedwolf5212]

The only thing I like about this new BB is the size reduction. Those tacky gold bezel markers, the elimination of the smilie text, the shield replacing the rose- Ander Ugarte has all but ruined the black bay. It’s a shame. I miss Davide Cerrato.

[@big_george_nyc]

When the HODINKEE affect goes wrong

[@craig2100]

Nice video

[@Khanh.Nguyen369]

Love Tudor. My BB has traveled the world with me. Just threw mine back on the bracelet after this video. It’s one of the few popular mainstream watches that are actually available. Prefer the first iteration without the rivotted bracelet.

[@rajTrondhjem10]

Just put in my deposit for a BB58 at the Tudor Boutique in Melbourne 🇦🇺

[@DavidRivera-gc3hi]

I love this watch!!!!

[@davidmorais2394]

I plan to give this a good look as an actual diving tool. The fiddly crown wouldn’t bother me too much. In or on water, you only adjust the bezel, not the crown.

[@FIFAUEFAmoments]

Please can you tell me your wrist size?

[@davids9549]

I don't agree with all this 'vintage feel' and 'old school look' talk. I know little about the history of diving watches, and care even less. I bought and wear this watch because I like how it looks, feels and functions TODAY - it's bang up-to-date as far as I'm concerned and if I'd wanted something vintage I'd have bought something vintage. I thank you!

[@RyanF91W]

I was sold on this watch until I saw it in person.

[@jolietjake19]

Great watch, some nitpicks: - Still somehow *looks* thick because the case is like one thick slab. - Too much text on the dial: pick either meters or feet, don't need both. And we don't need chronometer and officially certified. 99% of people buying this watch know this.

[@luisrocha8779]

Love it.

[@calidog3103]

I love this watch

[@sidneyt1016]

Is it real gold?

[@joellyraine]

What's your wrist size?

[@Archer335]

39 mm is a nice size.