Well, we got a “Pepsi” GMT update from Tudor but it’s probably not what you were expecting. While many, including us, thought it might be time for Tudor to release the BBGMT in a smaller size, it looks like Tudor is adding a new Opaline white dial to bring some variation to the Black Bay GMT selections. It’s a good time if you like that rare “Albino GMT Master” look and part of me feels like this combo feels sportier and more casual. Even if it’s not exactly what you wanted, I think many can agree that it was about time the Black Bay GMT got some kind of a refresh. It’s almost an interesting marriage between the aviation vibes of a GMT-Master and the cool dial on a polar Explorer II from Rolex.
As a former owner of a Black Bay GMT, I’ve gotta say that this new change is actually pretty attractive. The sizing is still a bit much for me at 41mm with that thick 14.5mm case, but the opaline white dial does a lot to bring out the bezel colors in a fun way. Plus, the old 6542 white dial GMT Master might be one of the most desirable examples of the GMT Master ever produced, so I see this as a way for Tudor to pay tribute to that. While impressive, let’s not forget that Monta beat Tudor out just a little bit to the Opaline White Dial game when they released their new limited Skyquest. In many ways, I think I’d still pick that watch over this one. Sorry, Tudor.
Like the first Black Bay GMT model debuted in 2018, this version comes on a matching steel bracelet or the nylon strap from Tudor. I never tried my old Black Bay GMT on a NATO but part of me feels like that combo would be too unwieldy. If you like the look, I’d probably stick to the bracelet since the larger lug-to-lug size flows better across the wrist with the help of that bracelet. Movement is the COSC-certified Calibre MT5652 with 70 hours of power reserve and a jumping local 12-hour hand.
Tudor Black Bay GMT Opaline White Specs
- Case diameter: 41mm
- Case thickness: 14.5mm
- Lug-to-lug: 50mm
- Water resistance: 200m
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Movement: COSC-certified Calibre MT5652
- Power reserve: 70 hours
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Bracelet: Stainless steel or nylon strap
- Price: $3,975 (nylon strap) $4,300 (bracelet)
So if you like the styling and the size of the original Black Bay GMT, it’s your day. Interestingly enough, this really is the closest thing to getting a white dial 6542 from the Rolex family right now. So in a way, I guess some might call this move historically important. Still if it were me (and considering fit, finishing, and price), I’d probably go with a Monta Skyquest.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.