Are you looking for a high-end chronograph watch? Then, Tudor Black Bay Chrono and Rolex Daytona are two of the most popular watches, especially among watch collectors.
Both come from a trusted brand, have a sophisticated mechanical system, and with an interesting history. Apart from these, the two chronograph watches have great features that are unique on their own and are slightly different compared to other mechanical watches in the market.
But which of the two would we recommend to you? Is one really superior over the other? That’s what we’ll find out in this in-depth Tudor Black Bay Chrono vs Rolex Daytona comparison. Let’s get started!
TLDR: Tudor Black Bay Chrono vs Rolex Daytona
Tudor Black Bay Chrono
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono watch is one of the most sought-after chronograph watches in recent years. The brand’s success in the last decade prompted them to release their own chronograph timepiece in 2017 and two newer iterations (Panda watches) in 2021, to offer a different color scheme.
Panda and Reverse Panda Tudor Black Bay
You can go for the Tudor Black Bay Chrono white dial or black dial. The one with a white dial and black subdials is called the panda version, while the black dial with white subdials is called the reverse panda.
The panda version boasts an impressive 200m water resistance, 41.0 mm. case diameter, a black band, scratch-resistant sapphire, and a deployment clasp. Its display type is analog.
Tudor Black Bay Chrono’s white dial is enhanced by luminous silver-tone hands and stainless steel case.
The one with the reverse panda dials closely resembles the legendary Rolex Daytona, also one of the most desirable men’s watches. But we will talk about that later. Going back to the Tudor Black Bay reverse panda version, it features a silver-tone band so it looks more elegant.
The same with the panda watch, it also features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Both styles are very beautiful, affordable, and highly modern.
Pros
- Durable
- Luminescent Hands
- 70 Hour Power Reserve
- Slim steel case
- Chronograph
- Tachymeter Scale
- Features a Scratch Resistant Sapphire
- 200 meters Water resistance
Cons
Interested? Get Black Bay Chrono Here.
Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona is the absolute masterstroke. No wonder why it is one of the most coveted high-end Chrono watches today.
What makes this watch special, apart from its style and features, is its history. The brand Rolex itself is the most recognizable luxury watch brand and is known for producing timepieces that are reliable, accurate, robust, and sturdy.
The Rolex Daytona is no exemption. Named after Daytona Beach in Florida, home to some of the biggest and most awesome race tracks in the world, the Rolex Daytona watch is popular in the racing community because of its usefulness when calculating lap speed.
As for the first series of this watch, it was called Paul Newman Daytona, named after the famous actor who received the timepiece as a gift from his wife Joanne Woodward. Newman popularized the timepiece wearing it while he also pursued his racing career.
The racing-inspired watch
Daytona is classified as a professional timepiece, meaning it serves a purpose and was designed with niche communities in mind. The Rolex GMT was developed for businessmen who frequently use pilot’s services and for pilots, Rolex Explorer for the great outdoorsman, and the Submariner for the diver.
Then comes the Rolex Daytona that was designed for racecar drivers. With a stopwatch feature, drivers can use it to time their laps. Rolex even marketed it as the “watch for winners” because, in the literal sense, it became the price for first-place finishers in big 24-hour races.
But you don’t have to be a racing fan to wear the Daytona. The most recent Daytona has these features: Caliber 4130 movement, 70 hours power reserve, a 47mm lug-to-lug measurement, 100 meters water resistance, and 40mm case diameter.
Taking all these into consideration, Rolex Daytona is definitely high quality in terms of features, function, and aesthetics.
Pros
- Screw down crown
- Tachymetric Scale
- Durable stainless steel bracelet
- Luminous
- COSC Superlative Chronometer Certified
- Swiss Made
Cons
- Expensive than other chronograph watches
Interested? Get Rolex Daytona Here.
In-Depth Comparison of the Tudor Black Bay Chrono and Rolex Daytona
Specifications
Tudor Black Bay Chrono | Rolex Daytona  | |
| Dial window material type | Scratch-resistant sapphire | Anti-reflective sapphire |
| Case diameter | 41mm | 40mm |
| Water-resistant depth | 200 meters | 100 meters |
| Chronograph | Yes | Yes |
| Movement | Automatic | Swiss Automatic |
| Weight | 2.25 Pounds | 5.01 Ounces |
In terms of movement specifications and dimensions, the two watches are almost the same. However, side by side, Black Bay Chrono and Daytona are different, like night and day.
Quality and Durability
There is no denying that the two beautiful chronographs of the Tudor Black Bay product line are the slimmed-down version of its original Black Bay Chrono. We like the vintage-leaning design that makes it comparable to Rolex Daytona. Plus, it has 200 water resistance whereas the Daytona only has 100 meters. Mind you, though, such a water resistance feature is also good for water sports or swimming.
The quality of the Tudor Black Bay feels obvious. They really convey that sense of being a high-quality watch. Although the watch’s case diameter is a bit bigger compared to its vintage antecedents, they are thinner and made of high-quality materials.
For men who have medium-to-large wrists, this watch is spot on because of its form factor. The size looks good even for casual wear.
Black Bay Chrono: the sweet middle ground between Daytona and Omega Speedmaster
For some watch enthusiasts, the Tudor Black Bay Chronograph watch is the sweet spot between two popular watches: The Rolex Daytona and Omega Speedmaster. The black aluminum bezel of Chrono Black Bay tidies up its tough look and puts it closer to Daytona.
Now for the Rolex Daytona, it features a black dial and a Cerachrom Ceramic Bezel, Rolex’s own material. The name is a combination of the words ceramic and Chrom – which means color in Greek.
Such a patented bezel is made of ceramic material with aluminum inserts. Rolex designed it this way so the timepiece will look the same for the next generations to come without signs of aging, as the patina. In short, you can also assure the quality and durability of Daytona’s materials.
The diamond-polished bezel likewise gives the watch an unmistakable luster. And Rolex realized that using regular paint over the engraved graduations will wear off over time. That’s why they also recessed it to guarantee optimal readability.
Other notable features of the Daytona are Rolex Caliber 4130 movement, 28,800 vibrations per hour, 44 jewels, 330 feet or 100 meters water resistance, 7″ adjustable bracelet, deployment buckle, and screw-down crown. You can also check out the Rolex GMT-Master tool watch as it’s one of our favorites as well.
Another watch that is a legend in racing is the Omega Speedmaster. (Click here to buy).
Warranty
All Tudor watches purchased on or after January 1, 2020, are covered with a five-year international guarantee. The brand ensures that every Tudor watch, including the Tudor black bay chronograph/ black bay GMT, has been subjected to a strict test to guarantee its reliability and precision.
In the same manner, Rolex guarantees the proper functioning of its Daytona for a period of five years, counting from the date of purchase. This excludes normal wear-and-tear of straps and non-metal bracelets, damage due to misuse, theft, and loss.
Who is it Best for?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono is best for men who prefer a reliable, classic, and durable watch. It is a kind of watch that would make it easier for men to display their sense of style, reflecting a hint of formal, casual, sports, and adventure.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is best for racers but makes a great timepiece for just any gentleman who wants to keep on time or wants to invest in something that would make a great fashion statement or heirloom.
What Do People Say About it?
YouTube
Bark and Jack said, “[It] has a heavy influence from the Rolex Daytona… [and] there are elements to this watch that are not [found] to a previous generation. This watch has screwed-on pushes and I love that. If you have to use the chronograph function of the [new Tudor black bay] you have to unscrew the screw-down pusher and then you can engage the mechanism. I just love the styling of it.”
Meanwhile, J. Anthony reviewed the Rolex Daytona. He said, “This is the one that has the Cerachrom bezel and a chroma light blue as well, the luminescent. It glows blue, which is pretty cool! But what makes this special is that it is not just the ceramic bezel, which everybody’s in love with. This is the coveted stainless steel version… Pretty large prices for this thing [even] on the secondary market. It’s a living legend.”
A reviewer shared on Reddit that the Tudor Black Bay Chrono is his first luxury watch.
“I am new to watches, and I dipped my toes in the water with a Seiko SNK807, Citizen E100, and Orient Bambino 2. After thoroughly enjoying those, I decided I wanted my first luxury watch, as I can see myself being a lover and collector for a lifetime. After a lot of looking around, research, and reviews, I couldn’t help but be very drawn to the Tudor Black Bay.
I got it with the brown strap and ordered the bracelet separately, which is great because of the variety and versatility having both will be able [to] give me. I’m really excited to finally be diving deep into the world of watches.”
A Reddit thread asks the audience whether he should pick the Rolex Daytona white dial or black dial and called it the “hardest decision to make.” To which one answered, “White [dial] for my preference. Wear in good health!
In another thread, he shared his happiness of finally being able to purchase the Daytona. As you know, there’s often a short supply for the watch and high desire from other watch collectors. It applies even to the secondary watch market.
So, he wrote, “When the new Daytona came out, I wanted one and a couple of my people put me on their list and it was just a waiting game. Well, I’m impatient as hell and I went out and bought a white one in the secondary market.
Two years later I got the surprise call that my watch was in. Rolex had sent extra watches for an event they had and I was lucky enough to pick up the black Daytona…I can say the wait was long but I can confirm that it is possible.”
Affordable Alternatives to Rolex Daytona
If you are looking for a more affordable alternative to Daytona apart from Tudor’s Black Bay and Omega Speedmaster, then we highly recommend you to check out the following watches:
1. Zenith El Primero
This timepiece has long been considered as a good alternative to Daytona, while others treat it as a full-on competitor. The reason is not just because of the similarity in how the two watches look, but rooted in Zenith El Primero’s history.
In the race to produce the first automatic chronograph movement in watches, the Zenith brand is widely known to be among the first inventors. Then, Rolex inspected the movement and simplified it for actual use.
Furthermore, the Zenith El Primero has some nice touches on the subdials. It is artsier than a normal sports watch, but don’t worry as you have a few variations to choose from.
Ready to buy it? Check out this link today!
2. Girard Perregaux Laureato Chronograph
The Girard Perregaux Laureato Chronograph is second on our list as it is a stunning piece of jewelry and comes from a brand that was founded ahead of Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.
The chronograph model has a higher quality finish and looks gorgeous, close to the Rolex Daytona model. You’ll just notice that it has extensively more detail on the dial itself and on the bracelet.
This Daytona’s alternative features a brushed stainless steel case with polished finished beveled corners, GP movement caliber GP03300, black subdials, and a silver dial with Clou de Paris guilloche pattern.
The more you look on this watch the more you’ll understand why it offers so much value that is comparable to Daytona. For instance, it has a thin case, brushed H links, and sporting angular screw-down Chrono pushers.
Ready to buy it? Check out this link today!
3. Pagani Design Men’s Watch (PD-1644)
Another Rolex Daytona alternative that offers a plethora of positive aspects is the Pagani Design Men’s Watch (PD-1644).
Pagani Design brand itself specializes in making homage watches that look like luxury watches. And you can get now for a price almost 1/100th the cost of a luxury timepiece. If the two-year waiting list is not something you are willing to endure, then you can guarantee this Pagani Design watch can give you a feel of wearing a luxury watch without the wait.
As for this PD-1644 model, it features a full 316L stainless steel construction, fold-over clasp with safety, flexible watcha=band, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial glass, 40mm case diameter, 12mm thickness, and a 220mm watch band.
This watch cost even less than $100, which is quite a steal. It is also 100M waterproof and is covered with a 30-day refund without reason plus 24 months high-quality warranty.
Ready to buy it? Check out this link today!
FAQ: Let’s Answer Some Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Rolex more expensive than Tudor?
First off, Tudor has been established as an affordable or budget brand of Rolex. But just because it is affordable doesn’t mean it is cheap. It is just more affordable when compared to Rolex.
Rolex is more expensive than Tudor because it is considered a luxury brand and Rolex watches are designed to enhance the wearer’s sense of luxury. Rolex likewise uses more superior materials, like 904L stainless steel as opposed to Tudor’s standard 316L stainless steel.
Is Tudor a “poor man’s Rolex”?
You may have read this in some watch forums online. But Tudor isn’t really a poor man’s Rolex. The phrase was just used because the brand is a sister company to Rolex as both are owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation.
In 1964, Hans Wilsdorf, the same man who founded Rolex, also started the Tudor Watch Company. Back then, he said that he had been considering making a timepiece that their agents could set at a “more modest price” than their Rolex watches and yet have the same standards of dependability as Rolex.
Is it worth buying a Tudor watch?
Yes, Tudor watches are worth buying. Not only are they well-made (are usually powered using in-house movements), they also look great and are offered at reasonable prices.
In addition, Tudor is a brand with excellent credibility amongst enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Do Tudor watches use Rolex movements?
Tudor is a sub-brand of Rolex and upon its relaunch, it only used ETA movements. However, if you purchase recently released models from Tudor, you’ll know that it now uses in-house movements.
That just means that you are getting Rolex quality movements, but one that is created specifically for Tudor watches. They are a little more basic but are still well-made.
The Verdict: Which is Best for You?
Honestly, the two watches compared here are great on their own. Both are not designed to be a status symbol or to be flashy. They are simply good-looking and reliable timepieces.
Obviously, Rolex Daytona (or Rolex watches in general) have a far higher-finish and quality compared to Tudor timepieces. That’s a given.
However, if you factor in the price, you’ll realize that Tudor is also equipped with some of the great features you’ll find in Daytona. It is sporty and robust at the same time. It is available, affordable, and downright awesome. In terms of style and design, both Tudor and Rolex shared more similarities.
Overall, if you prefer to exude elegance or more luxury, go for a Rolex wristwatch. If you prefer a watch that offers great value for your money and is high-quality at the same time, then go for Tudor Black Bay.
If you like this review, you might want to read our other reviews at EvesWatch.com.
My name is Eve Acosta and I’m the person behind this site. Watches are what get me ticking ;).
No, but seriously, I just love watches, I have over 30 myself. It’s an obsession of mine, which is why my husband recommended me to put my hobby into some good use and build this site – so I did.
My passion for timepieces came from the fact that my parents own a small chain of shops selling timepieces. I’ve worked at the shop since I was 11 and fell in love with the merchandise.
