tudor 79500 movement | tudor 36 black bay

The Tudor 79500, more than just a reference number, represents a specific iteration of the Tudor Heritage Black Bay, a watch that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its blend of vintage aesthetics, modern reliability, and compelling value proposition. While Tudor has increasingly focused on in-house movements in recent years, the 79500 remains a significant model, powered by a robust and well-proven calibre: the Tudor 2824. This article delves into the specifics of the Tudor 79500 movement, exploring its strengths, its role within the Heritage Black Bay 36mm, and comparing it to other offerings within the Tudor lineup. We'll also address common questions and concerns surrounding this popular watch.

Tudor 79500 Review: A Foundation of Reliability

The "Tudor 79500" designation typically refers to the 36mm Tudor Heritage Black Bay model, a smaller and arguably more versatile variant of the larger Black Bay divers. The key talking point when discussing the 79500 is the movement beating within its stainless-steel case: the Tudor 2824. It's crucial to understand that the "Tudor 2824" isn't a movement manufactured entirely by Tudor. Instead, it's a modified version of the ETA 2824-2, a workhorse automatic movement produced by ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse.

ETA movements have a long and storied history, known for their durability, accuracy, and relative ease of servicing. They are a staple in the watch industry, powering countless timepieces across a wide range of brands and price points. Tudor, while now a separate entity, has historical ties to Rolex, and this connection is evident in their choice of reliable movements. The Tudor 2824, specifically modified and regulated by Tudor, offers a compelling balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.

Key Characteristics of the Tudor 2824 (within the 79500):

* Automatic Winding: The movement is self-winding, meaning it is powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist. This eliminates the need for manual winding, although the watch can be manually wound if needed.

* Frequency: It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), resulting in a smooth sweep of the seconds hand.

* Jewels: Typically features 25 jewels to reduce friction and wear on moving parts, contributing to its longevity.

* Power Reserve: Offers a power reserve of approximately 38 hours. This means that when fully wound, the watch will continue to run for about 38 hours when not being worn. While this power reserve is less than some modern movements, it's sufficient for everyday use.

* Date Function: Includes a date complication displayed through a window on the dial.tudor 79500 movement

* Hacking Seconds: Features a hacking seconds function, allowing the seconds hand to be stopped when the crown is pulled out for setting the time. This facilitates precise synchronization with a reference time.

* Modifications by Tudor: While based on the ETA 2824-2, Tudor modifies and regulates the movement to meet their specific standards. This may include adjustments to the balance wheel, hairspring, and other components to improve accuracy and reliability. They also might add their own finishing touches to the movement, although these are largely hidden beneath the solid caseback.

Why the ETA 2824 in the 79500 Remains a Smart Choice:

Despite the availability of Tudor's in-house movements, the choice of the ETA 2824 for the 79500 was a strategic one. It allowed Tudor to offer a more accessible entry point into the Heritage Black Bay line, providing excellent value for money. The movement's proven track record and ease of servicing also contribute to its appeal.

* Reliability and Durability: The ETA 2824 is known for its robustness and longevity. It's a movement that can withstand the rigors of daily wear and tear.

* Servicability: Due to its widespread use, watchmakers around the world are familiar with the ETA 2824. This makes servicing and repairs relatively straightforward and affordable.

* Accuracy: While not COSC-certified, the Tudor-modified ETA 2824 is typically regulated to achieve good accuracy. Many owners report accuracy within a few seconds per day.

* Cost-Effectiveness: Using the ETA 2824 allows Tudor to keep the price of the 79500 competitive, making it an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality Swiss-made watch without breaking the bank.

Tudor Heritage 36mm: A Versatile and Stylish Timepiece

The Tudor Heritage Black Bay 36mm (79500) stands out as a versatile and stylish timepiece, offering a more compact and wearable alternative to the larger Black Bay models. Its 36mm case size is considered by many to be a sweet spot, suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes and preferences.

Key Design Features:

* Case Size: 36mm diameter, making it suitable for both men and women.