Tudor Collection First Addition

Although it was released several years ago now, the Tudor Pelagos is a watch I admit I paid relatively little attention to over the years. For some reason, I’d just not given it much thought, probably because I tend to shy away from tool watches in my collection. However, after developing the itch to add a tool watch back into the mix (what with the world becoming more and more casual over the past two years), I had started thinking about different options to add to my collection.

My original plan was to add the white dial Rolex OP 39mm that was in production a few years ago, but given the current craziness of the market I just couldn’t bring myself to spend twice what MSRP was for that watch (or even for a new 41mm if I could secure one). So, I had begun leaning in the direction of a BB58 with black dial as the size had always appealed to me, and you can still find them relatively easily. While in New York this past weekend for a quick visit, I stopped in a Tudor shop to try on the BB58 and perhaps buy it if I liked it. While the BB58 is still a fantastic watch for the money (very comfortable and good looking), I decided that I needed to give the Pelagos another look. I have to say, what a watch!

On paper, the Pelagos is massive in my mind and just not the type of watch I’d wear. It’s wide (42mm), thick (14.3mm) and not that very flashy given its mat-black (or blue) finish. However, once I tried it on, I immediately changed my tune. The short sharply curved lugs make it wear quite well on even small wrists like mine (50mm lug to lug). The black matt bezel and dial work incredibly well with the slightly darker look of the titanium case/bracelet and it just works as true solid tool watch. I’m rather amazed at how comfortable it is to wear given its size.

While the depth rating (500 m/1,640 ft) and helium escape value are wasted on me, it’s obviously an exceptional dive watch that could handle even the most demanding dive needs. What isn’t lost on me is the beautiful ceramic bezel, fantastic clean/clear lume, easily adjustable bracelet (it is as good as folks say!), the nice weight of the titanium, 70-hour power reserve of the COSC certified movement, and the reasonably strong antimagnetic nature due to its silicone hairspring. Putting all that (along with a free accompanying rubber strap) for $4,725 and it’s one heck of a watch for the money, especially in today’s crazy market.

So, consider me a convert – I’m really enjoying this watch and it certainly meets my needs for an everyday sports watch. It’s also a little different and oddly less common to see around than some models of Rolex (no knock-on Rolex, they’re obviously great watches), which I sort of enjoy. If you’re thinking about adding a new sports watch to your collection, don’t forget to give Tudor a look, you might be won over like me).