Tudor Black Bay GMT S&G Root Beer
About This Watch
The Tudor Black Bay GMT S&G takes the acclaimed GMT platform and elevates it with 18-karat yellow gold accents and a distinctive brown-and-black "Root Beer" bezel colorway. The two-tone combination recalls the Rolex GMT-Master II "Root Beer" but at a fraction of the cost, making it one of the most accessible entry points into the world of precious-metal GMT watches. The brown and black bezel color scheme is both unusual and versatile, complementing both warm and cool-toned outfits in a way that the more common Pepsi or Batman configurations cannot. Gold accents appear on the crown, bezel edge, and center bracelet links, providing just enough warmth without overwhelming the steel construction. The MT5652 caliber provides the same true GMT function as the all-steel version, with an independently adjustable local hour hand that makes time zone changes effortless during travel. The 70-hour power reserve and COSC certification ensure that the movement's performance matches its versatile aesthetics. The Root Beer colorway has historically been one of the more polarizing color combinations in GMT watches, but Tudor's execution is surprisingly wearable and has converted many skeptics. The two-tone bracelet construction is well-executed, with the gold links integrating smoothly with the steel riveted design. At under $5,500, this represents remarkable value for a gold-accented manufacture GMT watch.
In-Depth Review
# Editorial: Tudor's Two-Tone GMT Makes a Compelling Case for Practicality
Tudor's decision to pair stainless steel with 18k yellow gold on the Black Bay GMT represents a deliberate departure from the collection's tool-watch roots, yet it remains entirely faithful to the brand's core philosophy. The M79833MN-0001, introduced in 2019, uses this mixed-metal construction not as a styling gimmick but as a functional choice—the yellow gold bezel and bracelet end links develop a distinctive patina over time, creating visual contrast that actually aids legibility and provides tactile feedback during use. At 41mm and 14.8mm thick, the case proportions feel substantial without veering into oversized territory, while the 70-hour power reserve from the in-house MT5652 caliber reflects Tudor's engineering competence, positioning this as a genuinely capable daily wearer rather than a status symbol that demands babying.
The two-tone GMT is engineered for the experienced watch enthusiast who has moved beyond collecting and toward actually using their timepieces. This is the watch for the frequent traveler, the consultant managing multiple time zones, or the collector who values functionality enough to justify the mixed-metal construction's higher maintenance requirements. Unlike purely stainless sports watches, it accommodates dressier occasions while retaining its profession-grade complication and 200-meter water resistance.
Against competitors like the Rolex GMT-Master II in Rolesor—which commands significantly higher secondary market premiums—or Omega's Aqua Terra GMT at similar price points, Tudor's offering delivers comparable specifications with less hype-driven pricing. At current market levels around $4,500, it represents genuine value in the luxury GMT segment.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | MT5652 |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 26 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 41.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.8mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel and 18k Yellow Gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Bidirectional rotating, brown/black aluminum insert |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 50.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 200m / 656ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel and 18k yellow gold riveted bracelet |
| Clasp | Folding clasp with safety lock |
| Weight | 175g |
| Complications |