Viewed dead-on at first glance, the Black Bay Pro does indeed look quite a bit like a 1655 Explorer II. Which is, by my estimation, no bad thing. The dial is very different in execution, as is the large guardless crown, but that bezel is such a distinctive and recognizable frame that my mind (and likely yours) immediately jumps to the early Explorer II. In actuality, the dial, which is matte black and domed in shape, is very very Tudor and definitely of the Black Bay design ethos.
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Offered on a bracelet, a hybrid rubber/fabric strap, or a black and yellow version of Tudor's well-loved fabric NATO-like strap, the Black Bay Pro captures the base camp vibes of vintage GMT watches with a slickness derived from their now-extensive history of iterating upon the Black Bay design language. From the large and fully matte hands and markers to the yellow GMT hand and matching dial highlight, the Black Bay Pro (BBP?) is legible and handsome, but with a rugged undertone that feels more North Flag than Black Bay. I think it's a great-looking watch that rewards a viewer's attention to detail when taking in its many subtle design elements. Yes, it's a relatively subtle sports watch, but that's largely my zone for watch appreciation and I found the Black Bay Pro's appeal to be both quick and specific.
But of all the design elements of the Black Bay Pro, I think the GMT hand is my favorite. Reaching all the way out to the minute track, it's a rich, heavily saturated yellow and the shape tapers evenly to a final rounded point. Unlike the BB GMT, the luminous diamond-shaped pip is set somewhat inboard from the tip of the hand. I think it looks balanced, super legible, and downright cool. Also of note is the design of the crystal, which is much more modern than that found on the bulk of the Black Bay line. Rather than the vintage-effect box crystal we're used to, the Black Bay Pro has a lovely domed crystal that flows into the edge of the bezel and minimizes edge glow and glare. Nicely done.
Personally, I'd likely opt for the fabric strap and then simply fit a traditional NATO or a good medium-thickness leather strap. That said, the bracelet is quite nice and features a redesigned clasp with the brand's T-Fit micro-adjustment system. If you like bracelets, it's almost certainly worth the small premium and it's a great-looking match for the Black Bay Pro. The hybrid strap also feels and looks great, but uses a deployment-style buckle that layers the bulk of the strap. It's definitely worth trying on your wrist as the material is soft and comfy.
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