
A Stunning Throwback or a Tired Repetition?
Few watches in 2025 have sparked as much buzz as the new Tudor Black Bay 58 burgundy. With its radial-brushed burgundy dial and matching bezel, this latest release pays homage to a rare 1990s Tudor Submariner ref. 79190 prototype, a piece that never made it to the mainstream market but gained near-mythical status among collectors. Yet, the question lingers: Is this “new” Black Bay 58 truly a bold step forward, or just another rehash of the same formula? Join me as I explore the watch’s design, heritage, technical merits, and ultimately, how it stacks up in the WIPS (Watch Investment Potential Score).
Introduction: Burgundy That Beckons
The moment you lay eyes on the Tudor Black Bay 58 burgundy, you’re greeted by a dial that radiates a deep, warm hue, somewhere between a fine red wine and a crisp autumn leaf. The matching bezel ring gives a seamless, monochromatic look that’s further accentuated by silvered accents around the hour markers and hands. On the technical side, it’s now METAS-certified, marking a significant leap in Tudor’s commitment to accuracy and reliability. And, for those who want even more variety, Tudor has introduced new bracelet options, including a five-link design.

But is this watch just eye candy? Or does it deliver long-term value? To answer that, we’ll apply our Watch Investment Potential Score (WIPS) framework, examining key factors like brand strength, rarity, demand, and more.
Design and Heritage: Nodding to a ‘90s Rarity
At first glance, you might think it’s just another Black Bay 58, similar to the 2018 launch or the more recent Navy Blue edition. But the burgundy dial and bezel aren’t merely cosmetic flourishes. They’re a respectful nod to a Tudor Submariner ref. 79190 prototype from the early 1990s, a watch that fascinated collectors for years because it never progressed beyond the prototype stage.
Why does this revival resonate? For collectors, vintage-inspired pieces serve as tangible links to brand history, especially when they resurrect a design that was nearly lost to time. The radial brushed dial offers a subtle interplay with light, ensuring it’s never flat or dull. Silver text and markers complement this warm burgundy, lending a cohesive and understated luxury feel—a hallmark of modern Tudor design.
Technical Highlights: METAS-Certified and More
Enthusiasts have been clamoring for Tudor to step up its in-house caliber game, and the Black Bay 58 burgundy delivers a METAS certified movement. This certification underscores not only robust anti-magnetism but also heightened accuracy standards akin to what we see from the likes of Omega.
Housed in a 39mm case, this is still the sweet spot for many who felt modern dive watches were becoming too big. Meanwhile, the new five link bracelet offers a fresh alternative to the classic three-link or rubber strap. Although some might balk at the additional cost (more on that shortly), the bracelet’s comfort and retro aesthetic could be worth the premium.
WIPS Score Analysis: How Does the Burgundy Black Bay 58 Fare?
Using the WIPS methodology from TimelessPursuit.com/WIPS, we evaluate seven key factors, each scored from 1–10. Here’s how the new Black Bay 58 burgundy stacks up:
- Brand Heritage & Recognition (8/10)
Tudor, as Rolex’s sibling brand, has a robust pedigree and strong name recognition—though it remains second to Rolex in prestige. Still, Tudor’s legacy of producing reliable tool watches since 1926 bolsters its standing in the watch community. - Rarity & Limited Production (4/10)
This is not a numbered limited edition; Tudor clearly aims for a wider audience. While the burgundy homage is unique, it’s unlikely to remain scarce long-term. - Market Demand & Resale Liquidity (8/10)
The Black Bay line has consistently shown healthy demand, with many models fetching near retail on secondary markets. The burgundy’s tie to a vintage Sub prototype may further pique collector interest. - Condition & Completeness (9/10)
Being a new release, the watch comes in pristine condition with full box and papers. Buyers can expect top-tier completeness right out of the boutique. - Historical or Collectible Significance (6/10)
Although it references a fabled ‘90s prototype, the model itself is a modern creation that may or may not accrue historical cachet over time. The homage factor gives it a leg up, but it’s still early days. - Technical Complexity & Innovation (7/10)
The METAS certification elevates this Black Bay 58 above previous variants in terms of precision and reliability. Still, it’s a straightforward dive watch without intricate complications. - Long-Term Value Appreciation (7/10)
Tudor watches can hold their value well, but they typically don’t skyrocket in the same way certain Rolex models do. That said, the brand’s momentum suggests a stable to modest appreciation path.
WIPS Factor | Score (1–10) |
---|---|
Brand Heritage & Recognition | 8 |
Rarity & Limited Production | 4 |
Market Demand & Resale Liquidity | 8 |
Condition & Completeness | 9 |
Historical or Collectible Significance | 6 |
Technical Complexity & Innovation | 7 |
Long-Term Value Appreciation | 7 |
Total WIPS Score | 49 |
According to the WIPS scale, a total between 41–50 indicates “moderate to solid potential.” The Tudor Black Bay 58 burgundy sits comfortably in that bracket—promising enough for collectors who appreciate Tudor’s heritage and reliability but not guaranteed to become a high-flying investment piece.
Critical Perspective: A Safe Bet or Creative Stall?
Despite the excitement, many fans are starting to question whether Tudor’s repeated Black Bay formula is becoming too predictable. For some, it’s frustrating: They wonder if each new colorway is just another excuse to cash in on the line’s popularity rather than exploring new design horizons.
On the other hand, it’s also a smart brand strategy. The Black Bay is beloved for a reason its vintage-inspired aesthetic has broad appeal, and iterative improvements (like METAS certification) signal consistent quality upgrades. Our WIPS score reflects this tension: high marks in brand heritage and demand, but lower in rarity and historical weight. If Tudor keeps releasing near-identical watches in different colors, they risk alienating fans who crave true innovation. However, until sales dip, it’s likely they’ll continue milking the formula.

Market Context: Pricing and Competition
With pricing at $4,275 (rubber), $4,500 (three-link), and $4,600 (five link), the Black Bay 58 burgundy sits at the lower end of the luxury dive watch review spectrum when compared to Rolex, yet it’s creeping closer to Omega territory. The question for many is whether to stretch a bit more for an Omega Seamaster or stay within Tudor’s domain for that vintage flair and strong brand association with Rolex.
Given the 49 WIPS score, the burgundy Black Bay 58 looks like a “moderate to solid” pick in terms of watch investment potential. It’s priced competitively, and there’s steady demand—but it doesn’t offer the exclusivity or groundbreaking innovation that often spurs skyrocketing collector values.
Conclusion: Heritage Triumph or Call for Innovation?
So, is the Tudor Black Bay 58 burgundy a triumph of heritage or an indication that Tudor needs fresh ideas? The 49 WIPS score suggests it’s a decent contender for enthusiasts who love the brand’s history and want a timeless dive watch with improved technical chops. That said, buyers longing for something dramatically new might find yet another Black Bay iteration a bit underwhelming.
Ultimately, Tudor watches 2025 remain a hot topic in the industry, and the burgundy Black Bay 58’s “moderate to solid” WIPS score mirrors its market position: a strong, reliable diver that will likely hold value but won’t set the investment world on fire.
Would you add this burgundy Black Bay 58 to your collection based on its WIPS score, or are you waiting for something new from Tudor? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Disclosure
The WIPS (Watch Investment Potential Score) and all commentary provided are for informational purposes only and should not be taken as formal investment advice. As always, do thorough research and consult with professionals before making any significant purchase decisions.