Tudor Black Bay Chrono Reverse Panda
About This Watch
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono in reverse panda configuration — black dial with contrasting white subdials — offers a bolder, more dramatic alternative to the classic panda version. The high-contrast design places white chronograph counters against a deep black ground, creating a striking visual impact on the wrist that reads as more aggressive and sporty than the lighter panda variant. The MT5813 manufacture chronograph caliber, co-developed with Breitling, provides the same exceptional mechanical performance regardless of dial color: column-wheel chronograph with vertical clutch for smooth, instantaneous starts, COSC-certified accuracy, and a 70-hour power reserve that ensures the watch keeps running through a full weekend of rest. The bi-compax layout keeps the dial cleaner than traditional three-register chronographs, with elapsed minutes at 3, running seconds at 9, and date at 6 o'clock. The fixed tachymeter bezel adds genuine functionality for speed calculations and contributes to the watch's racing-inspired character. The reverse panda configuration has historically been favored by those who prefer their chronographs to make a statement — the Rolex Daytona reference 6263 "Paul Newman" in reverse panda is perhaps the most valuable vintage Rolex in existence. Tudor's take on the theme offers the same visual drama at a tiny fraction of the vintage collector price. On the riveted bracelet, the Chrono reverse panda is a thoroughly compelling daily-wear chronograph for enthusiasts who appreciate mechanical excellence and bold design.
In-Depth Review
# Tudor Black Bay Chrono Reverse Panda Editorial
Tudor's foray into modern chronograph design reaches a sophisticated apex with the reference M79360N-0005, a watch that proves the manufacture's willingness to challenge its own design vocabulary. Introduced in 2023, this 41mm stainless steel chronograph inverts the traditional panda dial formula—white subdials against a black background—creating visual contrast that feels both contemporary and rooted in racing watch tradition. The real technical achievement lies beneath the dial: Tudor's in-house MT5813 caliber, delivering a robust 70-hour power reserve and 33 jewels of mechanical refinement at 28,800 vibrations per hour. At 14.4mm thick, the case maintains reasonable wrist presence without the bulk that plagues many modern sport chronographs. The 200-meter water resistance and fixed tachymeter bezel position this squarely as a tool watch with pedigree, though the sapphire crystal and riveted steel bracelet signal that aesthetics matter equally.
This chronograph appeals to a specific collector: someone seeking serious mechanical credibility without the five-figure commitment demanded by Rolex's Daytona or even the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time. The ideal owner appreciates Tudor's independence from parent company Rolex, viewing the brand as a thinking person's alternative rather than a secondary choice. At current market pricing around $4,900—below the $5,325 MSRP—it competes directly with the Tudor Black Bay Chrono 41, though this reverse panda variant offers distinctive visual personality. Against external rivals like the Longines HydroConquest Chronograph or the Breitling Navitimer Automatic, Tudor's offering delivers Swiss manufacturing credibility with less brand premium inflation, a calculation increasingly
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | MT5813 |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 33 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 41.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.4mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, tachymeter scale |
| Dial Color | Black with white subdials |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 50.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 200m / 656ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel riveted bracelet |
| Clasp | Folding clasp with safety lock |
| Weight | 175g |
| Complications |