Here’s a diver’s take- it’s the perfect diver’s dress watch. These RUclips reviewers saying it has “an identity crisis” cracks me up. The way I see it, getting my dive watch fix from a casual/dress style watch is a huge win, and Tudor has married the 2 styles together perfectly. For me, the BB 36 ticks more boxes than an Explorer (and better looking than the Explorer at that, though that’s more of a subjective opinion). For me, the biggest negative for the BB36 is the 19mm lug width.
As for your ponderings on the Oyster perpetual black dial- like you, I also thought “it was the perfect design”, and I almost pulled the trigger. But there was something about it that was missing that I couldn’t place. After months of scrutiny, I finally figured it out- the seconds hand isn’t illuminated. As an old diver, lume on a seconds hand is everything. If you can’t see that the watch is actively running, you can’t confidently depend on it. And also... I just love lume & have been captivated by it since I was a child. I’ve spend countless hours sitting or lying in the dark watching an illuminated seconds hand sweep around a dial. It brings me joy and It’s something i don’t want to be without. It’s a non-issue for some, but for me it’s a requirement.
Personally I adore the Tudor bb36. I think the price is bang on, you don’t pay extra for the Rolex logo. Exquisite quality, on par with Rolex, you don’t have to baby it a lot. Fantastic legibility. What’s not to like.
I’m an owner of a BB36 too and I totally get your point about it having some ‘identity issues’ between a dive watch and a dress watch... Felt jaded for awhile until I decided to get rid of all those mental horological constructs and just appreciate it for the way it is :)
This, for me, is the perfect watch for a 1 watch collection (which is not the point of a collection, but you get the point). I'm dying to get one. I will. Expected to go along with this baby, a Seiko SARB035, a Seiko SBGJ213 (or 201), a Tudor Black Bay Fifty Eight and I'll most probably keep a few of my affordable watches. Cheers! Alessandro
The Slender Wrist Hi Alessandro, yes it is a super versatile watch that goes well with a shirt, T shirt and Polo T maybe except for a singlet haha. I’ve got small 6.25” wrists and it’s a perfect fit with its 44mm lug to lug measurement. Actually I think if you get this BB36, you might not need the BB58. Save a few thousand dollars :) Cheers!
For me, as long as it is nice in your wrist, the better the watch no matter what brand it is.. but if you have ROLEX and looks really nice in your wrist, then well and good. BB36 is really a great piece!
No Rolex group watch has an AR-coating, you can tell from the crazy reflections when you take pictures of them. That scratch is in the crystal. And in regards to the service, I can understand it. They are disassembling part of the oyster case and exposing it to the elements. The watch is still in warranty, something they will have to keep even after they’ve replaced the crystal. I understand their policy there.
I found this 5 years late! Belated congratulations and I hope you are continuing your journey in the watch world. I've just got this which is why I'm looking for bb36 videos. It's a fantastic watch I've stopped wearing dive watches and this is now my favourite every day watch.
Definitely get it. It looks amazing. This was my first luxury Swiss watch. My other one is a Hugo boss which isn’t really the “luxury” ones. The BB36 is absolutely amazing for the price. It’s extremely comfortable and lightweight for a steel watch. Movement is great. I get compliments everywhere. If you care more about what other people think then maybe save up for a Rolex by I’m a collector and I don’t really care
Yup, get it. As long as you respect that it is it's own thing and you like it already, you will appreciate it. The problem with this review is it's premise: "the watch doesn't know what it is". That's not the problem, the watch knows what it is just fine and is at peace with it. Its a beautiful mix of elements.
You are one of the few reviewers who actually used their own money to buy this watch. Many others were loaned the watch for a short time and here you are sharing your thoughts after one year. Thank you. FYI your video showed a pic of the OP39 (which is different than the OP36). I heavily dislike the OP36 double baton 3-6-9 indices. The OP34 has slightly larger 3-6-9 single baton indices which I love. The 39 would be too big for me and I think the 34 would fit similarly to my BB36. I purchased the BB36 this past March. I've had the same thoughts as you regarding the identity of the BB36. Sometimes I wish I waited for the new black/white OP34. But then again, I don't care for labels and the BB36 is a great watch. If I were to own an OP34, I feel like I would look at it wishing it was an Explorer 36 (my favourite Rolex). As a result, I will happily wear my BB36 and wait for the day Rolex rereleases the Explorer 36 (if ever).
@@relosapulso Yes, I still rock my BB36. It keeps great time and has not yet been serviced. Funny reading my old comment. I'm glad I didn't go for the OP. The Explorer was reintroduced in 36mm but after trying it on, I prefer the dial and hands of the BB36. The Explorer hands are too skinny and found it less legible than the BB36. I love how the minute hand has plenty of lume. The only Rolex I want now is the Submariner since the BB36 dial is based on the Sub, and also because of the Glidelock clasp. It will be a few years until that happens and I'll continue to enjoy my BB36. It's nice looking at pics throughout the last few years and I'm typically wearing that one watch!
@@RebirthBeyond awesome to hear that you still rock the bb36 and it's never been serviced. Almost pull the trigger on the exp 1 as well the ref 124270, as u said the hands are too skinny and i love some lume and went for the bb36, it's going 2yrs now and my one and only watch as well. Hope you get the sub soon cheers! Oh and thanks for the response as well
One of life’s best feelings is when someone replies to an old comment of mine on RUclips. Shows you really searched for this video and that we share some common interest!
The Tudor 36 is an awesome Explorer 36/Op36 alternative. It’s on my list along alongside a black-bay 58. Agree the Tudor 41s aren’t the best. Don’t worry about scratches - tool watches are to be used. Dings give them character imho.
Although i see your point, Personally love the fact that it's a bit confused between being half dress watch & half sports, with the diver style oversized lume and hands. It's what makes it so unique and also what makes it waerable for any occasion.. and that is an incredibly rare achievement. The rolex oyster is a stunner, but it really wants to be worn with a suit and therefore is a little too dressy in my opinion, I know is what it's supposed to be but it makes it a bit one dimensional. This tudor on the other hand works in shorts and a t-shirt as well a tux. I love the way it pays homage to Tudor the dive watches as well as maintaining a classy elegance and I think whilst writing this I have just convinced myself that this is maybe the perfect watch. 😮
if anyone is undecided whether to get the watch, put it this way i got the 36 with the black dial... I'm now considering buying the SAME watch just for the blue dial. It's such a subtle peice but you can see the quality of the watch, the materials and the polishing. It looks and shouts luxury. Also it looks the absolute doggie bollocks on a leather strap with the clasp. Amazing watch.
The way I look at the styling of this watch is that it fits in the Sport/Dress category, whereas the Rolex is more of a Dress/Sport watch. Small difference, but a difference nonetheless. The beefier handset, lume filled indices and nice WR pushes the watch more towards the sport category rather than the dressy category, still allowing for the watch to be dressed up if the need arises. The Rolex OP, on the other hand, with it's baton handset and cleaner look fits more on the dressier side, though very much like the Tudor, is versatile, allowing you to dress it down if one wanted to. As mentioned before, I think that the Tudor BB 36 is in closer relation to the Rolex Explorer I.
If you're confused to what this watch design is supposed to resemble it's the same as my seiko srpe. It's a light dive watch that can double as a dress watch while a regular diver can't. In my eyes this is just a do-it-all kind of watch that won't look out of place anywhere. The rolex in my eyes is more a dress oriented watch. I also believe this watch fits young people better.
Hi young man it’s great to hear from you again James ,I so glad all seems well with your good self.The Tudor was beautiful the day you got it, it’s still beautiful today and will be still beautiful the day your first born comes of age and you present it to him or her.Take care👍🏻
1. Really proud of what you’ve achieved. 2. So happy to have you as part of my team. 3 I love it on the camo-watch swap for the day when you’re back. 4. You’re welcome 😉
Smaller guy here as well, 5"7 and 6.25 inch wrists. Had this exact watch for about a month and only take it off when I hit the gym. Otherwise it is the perfect watch for literally any scenario and I still find myself just staring at it every single day.
IMO, the BB36 contends more with the Rolex Explorer I rather than the OP. But given the fact that the Explorer is triple the cost of the Tudor...BB 36 all the way for me. Few dislikes for me would have to be; 1) I agree with you, the hand & Indices size compared to that of the dial size is a bit too big. 2) No AR coating. 3) Though the watch size is 36mm, I really think Tudor could have easily gotten away with a 20mm inner lug width. Honestly, this really annoys me because now I have to purchase all the straps I already have in 20m in a 19mm size.
I could be the last person in UK to buy a smiley BB36 in black today. Can't see any for sale new now. Great GADA tool watch, even more so than my Explorer 1. And nice to see such a young lad with such a mature head on him. Good luck mate I'm sure you'll do absolutely fine.
Great Review on this watch. The BB36, on steel, is a heavy favourite for a relatively near future purchase. Do I want a BB36, yes. Do I think the over execution of the BB36 is not completely synced, Yes. I will get one but not sure it will be a keeper. I think your views on the new 36mm Oyster are spot on. It is a holistically wonderfully executed watch, and a direct competitor to the BB36 with some additional saving.
A little late to the comments here, but, a really great watch. I'll have to check out your other videos and see if you still have it or moved on. To me, the fact that the BB36 blurs the line between a dress watch and dive watch is a feature, not a mistake. I think that more casual style is pretty consistent with the direction things are going for a daily wearer (depending on work environment, of course). As you noted, it also helps make a clear break from the 36mm Explorer, which is definitely good for Tudor's brand (Tudor has developed its own identity over the years and is ready to move out of its parents' house and make its own way in the world!). With Rolexes becoming less and less attainable, I think that blended design, along with availability and price point, positions the BB36 to better attract younger people into the brand. Though not a deal breaker, I do see what you mean about the dial maybe being a little crowded. The Black Bay Pro, at 39mm, solves that issue and, to me, nails the perfect visual balance of dial components to dial size.
to answer your question, i tried the op in 41mm and i thought i would prefer it but still preferred the bb, its just adorable or something lol the rolex is very nice but its corporate its a suit its a stiff the bb36 is dynamic versatile slightly chaotic its an enigma, has no real identity, a bit of an outcast, like myself, so it was just more me, the rolex was just too grand, id rock it if i was an eccentric millionaire maybe but as i am id just feel a bit silly with it on my wrist
Nice watch. Good life story and how it relates to this watch. For many people, a watch represents a particular time, event or stage in life. You don't have to be a watch enthusiast to celebrate a specific achievement via a watch purchase. Great video.
Just purchased one. Love it. Great review.Your comments on that dreadful nato are spot on . Cheapens the watch massively. Wouldn't dream of putting it on!
i have one, got rid of my seamaster to get one, the bb36 is a do it all watch, its a dress watch field watch you can swim with it lume is great it has a similar dial to the sub no date which is my favourite watch but i actually like the bb more, the only thing i dont like about it is the clasp, its made well but the clasp is too big so when wearing it it creases at an angle on my wrist due to the long clasp, its a minor gripe
Well if it isn't "it's Kibble!". Always nice to put a face to the ads i see with regularity on the WUS site. I'm also thinking about the BB36, it's reviews like yours that keeps me knee deep with interesting watches (purchasing a 37mm Captain Cook tomorrow) and bank account bereft. Good luck in your new endeavour, I think your attitude and drive will set you well, take care my friend.
I fell in love with the 41 over the weekend during my visit to Tourneau in Las Vegas. The 36 was beautiful and fit me great, but that 41 has Strap Monster written all over it!
This is a tool watch - super legible on the go. The OP36 is dressier and less legible, for sure. I have both, love them both, use them for different things.
I got mine recently... Do you ALWAYS get the nato strap in the box with the watch or not? I was expecting to get one in the box as i got it on the bracelet, but didn't get one in the box...
I've been shopping around for an everyday watch for quite a while, and I've tried on the bb36 as well as the black-dial 36mm Rolex you referenced. Personally, I will probably end up getting the bb36. I see its identity as flexible more than lost, I think it has great personality (snowflake hands and large, legible pips) while maintaining a conservative styling, and I think it's slightly better to wear with casual dress (though the Rolex beats it out for black tie attire, which I think both can be worn for because of their conservative designs). I believe these reasons, plus the easily serviceable yet reliable ETA movement, will lead me to get the bb36. However, in the end, I can definitely understand arguments in favor of the Rolex. Thank you for all your videos about the bb36. You've been a real help to me whilst I've been shopping around!
CreepyGUYcool1! Productions I ended up buying the BB, and I haven’t taken it off my wrist for a month and a half! I definitely agree, it’s been a great experience.
Rolex and Tudor don't use anti-reflective coatings. Also, you included a picture of the 39mm OP, rather than the 36mm OP. The 36mm has double batons at 3-6-9, and is more comparable to the Black Bay 36, IMO. I'm going to get the Tudor Black Bay 36 and the OP 36mm in white.
Rolex and Tudor do use anti reflective coating, on the inside of some of the crystals. They do not coat the outside face of the crystal as many other companies do. The cyclops on both Tudor and Rolex is anti reflective on both sides though.
Fantastic video👍 I love my BB36. I have had it a few months. I got the aged leather. Not a big fan of bracelets. I like the nato strap that comes with it. The space between the lugs adds appeal to me. I looked at the 114270 explorer, but decided, I'm not a Rolex person. This watch is a lifetime keeper. Mine is 4 seconds a day fast. Best review on this watch yet👍
nigel kibble Definitely, though the Rolex is more than sufficient for any water needs I'll have too being a screw down crown and 100M water resistant. I'm sure this won't be leaving anytime soon anyway lol
I'm about to get one. I also have a white OP39. I'm seeing them as the perfect pair (for me) The OP39 for daily work through fancy occasion, the bb36 from daily to adventure.
Seriously thinking about this to mark my 30th. It’d be my first luxury and the price is still mind blowing, but since the Explorer I is unobtainable this might do the trick. If I can stomach that kind of price.
I've owned the BB36 for about 4 months. I'm not too happy about the accuracy. It has been running between 5 to 7s fast per day. It has me seriously considering flipping it for the new Tudor BB58. What do you think of the Tudor BB58? It has a 39mm case, a new thinner in-house movement, and doesn't suffer from the same diver/not diver identity crisis that the BB36 does.
Tudor uses top grade ETAs for BB36, not chronometer grade. It means that the movement is capable of reaching COSC, but Tudor didn't send it to have it COSC certified. If the only problem is because it is 5 to 7 seconds fast a day, you can take it to RSC or local watchmaker to have it adjusted. It should be quite simple and easy job to do. Regarding Tudor BB58, it is a nice watch. BB36 imo is like dressy type explorer. An odd combination but gorgeous watch nonetheless. I have Tudor BB41 and it looks unlike anything I know unlike the BB36 with explorer, because it is unique in its own right.
Congrats on your achievement! I'm a bit torn with eventually purchasing my first Tudor as well. I'd think I'd prefer the 41mm case of the Heritage BB, but with my 6.25" wrist the BB 36 seems like a better fit.
I just picked one of these up about a month ago. I tried the 40mm Black bay and found it just a bit too chunky for my small wrist size. This 36mm is awesome it's like a well fitted pair of shoes. Mine too was a bit of a spur of the moment purchase . I was going to look at getting the new Black Bay 58. Decided on this instead as I have enough divers in my collection.
Fair play Logan! This watch is perfect as it is still definitely a more than capable dive watch but disguised in a great size and case! Thank you for watching :)
The Rolex you are showing, is the new 39mm and I don't believe it is available in 36mm, if so, please share the reference number of the 36mm Rolex. Thanks
Nice vid. Ive got a craving for this watch. Prob get this in about a year or so. I have an Oyster Perpetual 36(blue)166000 but those over sized lumes/hands on the dial look so great on the Tudor. Yea...identintity issue a bit but such a fun looking watch. The one thing Ive learned in my watch collecting and jewelry career is that its better to wait until you can add to the collection rather than sell one to get one. The couple pieces Ive sold to to get something else, Ive always regretted later. Most customers I talk to at the watch counter offer the same sentiment.
I think you are absolutely right, the BB is a little confused while the Rolex OP is much more confident it what it is. The new OP are great,but do you really want to pay the same again on top for something so similar? What about a change to a Aqua Terra or something like that? Great vid though 👍
Nice watch just not 36mm way too small. In terms of the crystal issue, it’s not just tudor Rolex do the same and had to service my rootbeer to change the crystal when I scratched the glass and wanted around £800. Tudor customer care is great they repaired my Tudor after a fault when it was over a year out of warranty so I can not fault them. And in terms of the quality compared to the Rolex I can honestly tell people there is no way my gmt CHNR should be 3x more expensive then my black bay S&G. Think I might need to add a 41mm black bay silver dial to the daily driver collection great value for money.
if I could design a tudor black bay , it would be with a date function. the steel version has a date function. $3675 dollars and no date function, if I pay the $3800 for the steel edition I get my date back. I guess I will get the black bay 41 mm on a steel bracelet. the rolex submariner no date is $7500, with the date $8550. do I want to spend this much on a watch. no, so I am back to the BB 41mm with no date. I have a rolex air king 34mm, too small for my big wrist. the BB you have looks very good , your are correct its a dress dive watch. it looks like Tudur will win this one on the cost alone.
Great review. Love the watch. Only thing holding me back is the price for a Selitta 200-1. Good movement but I have a Glycine Sub 36 with the same movement and better specs.
Wow James to leave home and own a new Tudor plus own your own company all before your 21 is pretty spectacular mate. Love your passion and I see your predicament with it not having a clear identity. I personally think your too hung up on this, I bought an Oris Aquis (the black, blue starburst dail) because it fullfiled 2 roles 1 as an out and out Diver, 300 metres so not to be sniffed at. On the bracelet it is so elegant it easily is at home a dress piece too. I would look upon yours like this too if I were you. Myself I could not wear a Rolex (although I did inherit one but at 30mm unwearable for me), and although I realise it's not a vintage Newman Daytona it's the worry I couldn't live with of been a target (Michael McIntyre only this week). Flip side is because of your age people think it has to be fake (almost worse right?) either way I prefer understated luxury but that's just my opinion! Have not had chance to compare but think I would pick the 41mm over the 36 as I have 7" wrists. I'm not the Time Teller so wearing a silly small watch does look to me like I have stolen it from my 12 year old son!!
Hi Mark, thank you for watching and being a long term viewer! I couldn't agree more, I am definitely too hung up on the identity of the watch as I absolutely love it regardless ahaha! The Aquis is a great choice! You're so right about the Rolex points, being my age most would think it is a fake for sure lol. Lol at 7" I suspect the 41mm might wear better though the 36mm is perfect in my eyes and wears well on most wrists! Lol I love the Time Teller, only guy I know with wrists his size wearing small watches ahah! Classy in my opinion but I totally get what you mean ;)
Great video review. I have this watch as well and I really enjoy it. Seems like a common thread that people who saw it and tried it on fell for it and couldn’t get it off their wrists, and in my case I bought it immediately. I’m also in agreement that it has a bit of an identity crisis with the large snowflake hands and the generous lume in such a “dressy tool-watch” package. The other common thread I’ve noticed is the comparison between it and the oyster perpetual, and maybe more-so the explorer. Which I think is actually a superior watch but I just don’t like the dial and indexes enough to shell out 3x the price of the BB36 to buy one. All in all, great review as you’d actually covered the same amount of content as having to watch 2-3 other video reviews of similar duration. Bravo and congrats of one year of ownership of a great watch.
IMO the OP is a dress watch and not so much as a sport watch. However, it does goes pretty well as a casual watch eg wear with jean & t shirt etc. So I think it will be versatile to meet your lifestyle.
To me that Rolex oyster at the end looks super boring with sticks hads and boring indexes looks way cheaper than black bay 36 which has super charm with its snoflake hands and indecies. Anyway thanks for review mate it helps a lot for choosing bb36.
Definitely try the OP first in reality James, I think you'll prefer the Explorer I but that's just me ;-) Also the 36mm OP has double markers at each quarter, you may not like that when seeing it in real life. the dial on the 39mm one is much cleaner in real life. Also - thanks a lot for the kind & unexpected mention - need to get you a new strap! :-)
Great vid james! Totally agree about the camo nato, just dont get there thinkinh behind it and the sizing wtf!!! But you know i love the watch. Those hands are so iconic now. I think u wud regret selling it..... Unitll u bought an OP!!!
Watchthisspace82 Watchthisspace82 Yes the Nato is a strange one! Though They offer a black NATO with it now which is apparently perfectly fitted. I agree! I'd have sellers remorse immediately but then I'd be super happy with the Rolex no doubt lol
I have heard you name mentioned in other videos, pretty new to watches. I am really keen to pull the trigger on the BB36, But I have my eye on a Seamaster Aqua Terra Quartz.
James C Potentially! As someone who is so into watches and assesses every little detail it's a tough watch to love every aspect. Thank you for watching! Which do you prefer? The Tudor or the Rolex?
Kibble Watches I’ve seen those new OP’s and they are beautiful! as an owner of a vintage OP it has to be the Rolex for me. But not to take anything away from the Tudor I love that watch and have considered it myself many times. I’m hankering after a Rolex Explorer 1 39mm or an Omega Railmaster (the one that Bark&Jack reviewed) I tried the Omega on today and I’m in love with it! What are your thoughts?
Its so good to see a young lad talk about his dream and get all excited about it. Many of us has lost that spirit.
speak for yourself, son.
Here’s a diver’s take- it’s the perfect diver’s dress watch. These RUclips reviewers saying it has “an identity crisis” cracks me up. The way I see it, getting my dive watch fix from a casual/dress style watch is a huge win, and Tudor has married the 2 styles together perfectly. For me, the BB 36 ticks more boxes than an Explorer (and better looking than the Explorer at that, though that’s more of a subjective opinion).
For me, the biggest negative for the BB36 is the 19mm lug width.
As for your ponderings on the Oyster perpetual black dial- like you, I also thought “it was the perfect design”, and I almost pulled the trigger. But there was something about it that was missing that I couldn’t place. After months of scrutiny, I finally figured it out- the seconds hand isn’t illuminated. As an old diver, lume on a seconds hand is everything. If you can’t see that the watch is actively running, you can’t confidently depend on it. And also... I just love lume & have been captivated by it since I was a child. I’ve spend countless hours sitting or lying in the dark watching an illuminated seconds hand sweep around a dial. It brings me joy and It’s something i don’t want to be without. It’s a non-issue for some, but for me it’s a requirement.
Personally I adore the Tudor bb36. I think the price is bang on, you don’t pay extra for the Rolex logo. Exquisite quality, on par with Rolex, you don’t have to baby it a lot. Fantastic legibility. What’s not to like.
I've had mine for a year now too. I love it. Simple, modest, and still makes me smile to look down at it.
I’m an owner of a BB36 too and I totally get your point about it having some ‘identity issues’ between a dive watch and a dress watch... Felt jaded for awhile until I decided to get rid of all those mental horological constructs and just appreciate it for the way it is :)
This, for me, is the perfect watch for a 1 watch collection (which is not the point of a collection, but you get the point). I'm dying to get one. I will. Expected to go along with this baby, a Seiko SARB035, a Seiko SBGJ213 (or 201), a Tudor Black Bay Fifty Eight and I'll most probably keep a few of my affordable watches. Cheers! Alessandro
The Slender Wrist Hi Alessandro, yes it is a super versatile watch that goes well with a shirt, T shirt and Polo T maybe except for a singlet haha. I’ve got small 6.25” wrists and it’s a perfect fit with its 44mm lug to lug measurement. Actually I think if you get this BB36, you might not need the BB58. Save a few thousand dollars :) Cheers!
For me, as long as it is nice in your wrist, the better the watch no matter what brand it is.. but if you have ROLEX and looks really nice in your wrist, then well and good. BB36 is really a great piece!
Why does a watch have to be one thing or another? I really like this watch. Would buy if it came in a 38mm.
I just see it as a smaller tool watch. The exact way most people view the explorer 36
Man owning a BB36 at 19 years old is absolutely amazing. As a 17yo who's not even close, I'm jealous xD
No Rolex group watch has an AR-coating, you can tell from the crazy reflections when you take pictures of them. That scratch is in the crystal. And in regards to the service, I can understand it. They are disassembling part of the oyster case and exposing it to the elements. The watch is still in warranty, something they will have to keep even after they’ve replaced the crystal. I understand their policy there.
i tried on both the rolex explorer and tudor bb36 and went with the tudor. almost a year later i have not regret my choice.
I found this 5 years late! Belated congratulations and I hope you are continuing your journey in the watch world. I've just got this which is why I'm looking for bb36 videos. It's a fantastic watch I've stopped wearing dive watches and this is now my favourite every day watch.
2 year update on the BB36? Still considering whether to purchase this or not...
Definitely get it. It looks amazing. This was my first luxury Swiss watch. My other one is a Hugo boss which isn’t really the “luxury” ones. The BB36 is absolutely amazing for the price. It’s extremely comfortable and lightweight for a steel watch. Movement is great. I get compliments everywhere. If you care more about what other people think then maybe save up for a Rolex by I’m a collector and I don’t really care
Yup, get it. As long as you respect that it is it's own thing and you like it already, you will appreciate it. The problem with this review is it's premise: "the watch doesn't know what it is". That's not the problem, the watch knows what it is just fine and is at peace with it. Its a beautiful mix of elements.
You are one of the few reviewers who actually used their own money to buy this watch. Many others were loaned the watch for a short time and here you are sharing your thoughts after one year. Thank you.
FYI your video showed a pic of the OP39 (which is different than the OP36). I heavily dislike the OP36 double baton 3-6-9 indices. The OP34 has slightly larger 3-6-9 single baton indices which I love. The 39 would be too big for me and I think the 34 would fit similarly to my BB36.
I purchased the BB36 this past March. I've had the same thoughts as you regarding the identity of the BB36. Sometimes I wish I waited for the new black/white OP34. But then again, I don't care for labels and the BB36 is a great watch. If I were to own an OP34, I feel like I would look at it wishing it was an Explorer 36 (my favourite Rolex). As a result, I will happily wear my BB36 and wait for the day Rolex rereleases the Explorer 36 (if ever).
do you still rock your bb36?
@@relosapulso Yes, I still rock my BB36. It keeps great time and has not yet been serviced.
Funny reading my old comment. I'm glad I didn't go for the OP. The Explorer was reintroduced in 36mm but after trying it on, I prefer the dial and hands of the BB36. The Explorer hands are too skinny and found it less legible than the BB36. I love how the minute hand has plenty of lume.
The only Rolex I want now is the Submariner since the BB36 dial is based on the Sub, and also because of the Glidelock clasp. It will be a few years until that happens and I'll continue to enjoy my BB36. It's nice looking at pics throughout the last few years and I'm typically wearing that one watch!
@@RebirthBeyond awesome to hear that you still rock the bb36 and it's never been serviced. Almost pull the trigger on the exp 1 as well the ref 124270, as u said the hands are too skinny and i love some lume and went for the bb36, it's going 2yrs now and my one and only watch as well.
Hope you get the sub soon cheers! Oh and thanks for the response as well
One of life’s best feelings is when someone replies to an old comment of mine on RUclips. Shows you really searched for this video and that we share some common interest!
@@RebirthBeyond yup on point! kinda rare too that someone would reply a few years back in the comments
The Tudor 36 is an awesome Explorer 36/Op36 alternative. It’s on my list along alongside a black-bay 58. Agree the Tudor 41s aren’t the best. Don’t worry about scratches - tool watches are to be used. Dings give them character imho.
Although i see your point, Personally love the fact that it's a bit confused between being half dress watch & half sports, with the diver style oversized lume and hands. It's what makes it so unique and also what makes it waerable for any occasion.. and that is an incredibly rare achievement. The rolex oyster is a stunner, but it really wants to be worn with a suit and therefore is a little too dressy in my opinion, I know is what it's supposed to be but it makes it a bit one dimensional. This tudor on the other hand works in shorts and a t-shirt as well a tux. I love the way it pays homage to Tudor the dive watches as well as maintaining a classy elegance and I think whilst writing this I have just convinced myself that this is maybe the perfect watch. 😮
if anyone is undecided whether to get the watch, put it this way i got the 36 with the black dial... I'm now considering buying the SAME watch just for the blue dial. It's such a subtle peice but you can see the quality of the watch, the materials and the polishing. It looks and shouts luxury. Also it looks the absolute doggie bollocks on a leather strap with the clasp. Amazing watch.
The way I look at the styling of this watch is that it fits in the Sport/Dress category, whereas the Rolex is more of a Dress/Sport watch. Small difference, but a difference nonetheless. The beefier handset, lume filled indices and nice WR pushes the watch more towards the sport category rather than the dressy category, still allowing for the watch to be dressed up if the need arises. The Rolex OP, on the other hand, with it's baton handset and cleaner look fits more on the dressier side, though very much like the Tudor, is versatile, allowing you to dress it down if one wanted to. As mentioned before, I think that the Tudor BB 36 is in closer relation to the Rolex Explorer I.
If you're confused to what this watch design is supposed to resemble it's the same as my seiko srpe. It's a light dive watch that can double as a dress watch while a regular diver can't. In my eyes this is just a do-it-all kind of watch that won't look out of place anywhere. The rolex in my eyes is more a dress oriented watch. I also believe this watch fits young people better.
Hi young man it’s great to hear from you again James ,I so glad all seems well with your good self.The Tudor was beautiful the day you got it, it’s still beautiful today and will be still beautiful the day your first born comes of age and you present it to him or her.Take care👍🏻
1. Really proud of what you’ve achieved. 2. So happy to have you as part of my team. 3 I love it on the camo-watch swap for the day when you’re back. 4. You’re welcome 😉
I kinda like this better than the Rolex OP. To me it has a more sporty feel, yet dressy, a more “manly” rugged look.
Smaller guy here as well, 5"7 and 6.25 inch wrists. Had this exact watch for about a month and only take it off when I hit the gym. Otherwise it is the perfect watch for literally any scenario and I still find myself just staring at it every single day.
IMO, the BB36 contends more with the Rolex Explorer I rather than the OP. But given the fact that the Explorer is triple the cost of the Tudor...BB 36 all the way for me. Few dislikes for me would have to be; 1) I agree with you, the hand & Indices size compared to that of the dial size is a bit too big. 2) No AR coating. 3) Though the watch size is 36mm, I really think Tudor could have easily gotten away with a 20mm inner lug width. Honestly, this really annoys me because now I have to purchase all the straps I already have in 20m in a 19mm size.
I could be the last person in UK to buy a smiley BB36 in black today. Can't see any for sale new now. Great GADA tool watch, even more so than my Explorer 1. And nice to see such a young lad with such a mature head on him. Good luck mate I'm sure you'll do absolutely fine.
Hi,
May I ask how large your wrist is? You might already have answered this question but I can't seem to find it.
Thanks,
Tobias
Great Review on this watch. The BB36, on steel, is a heavy favourite for a relatively near future purchase. Do I want a BB36, yes. Do I think the over execution of the BB36 is not completely synced, Yes. I will get one but not sure it will be a keeper. I think your views on the new 36mm Oyster are spot on. It is a holistically wonderfully executed watch, and a direct competitor to the BB36 with some additional saving.
Always it’s the story’s which make something valuable , tasteful and bring respects to the journey wish you all the best Kibble
A little late to the comments here, but, a really great watch. I'll have to check out your other videos and see if you still have it or moved on. To me, the fact that the BB36 blurs the line between a dress watch and dive watch is a feature, not a mistake. I think that more casual style is pretty consistent with the direction things are going for a daily wearer (depending on work environment, of course). As you noted, it also helps make a clear break from the 36mm Explorer, which is definitely good for Tudor's brand (Tudor has developed its own identity over the years and is ready to move out of its parents' house and make its own way in the world!). With Rolexes becoming less and less attainable, I think that blended design, along with availability and price point, positions the BB36 to better attract younger people into the brand. Though not a deal breaker, I do see what you mean about the dial maybe being a little crowded. The Black Bay Pro, at 39mm, solves that issue and, to me, nails the perfect visual balance of dial components to dial size.
i own the bb36, 79220n, current 214270, 14060m, 114060. i wear the bb36 the most. you made a good choice.
You have a great collection Brian! Thank you for watching
bb36 is one of my favs. I had a 14060M and 114270 as well but sold them both because I wasn't wearing them a lto after getting BB 36.
to answer your question, i tried the op in 41mm and i thought i would prefer it but still preferred the bb, its just adorable or something lol the rolex is very nice but its corporate its a suit its a stiff the bb36 is dynamic versatile slightly chaotic its an enigma, has no real identity, a bit of an outcast, like myself, so it was just more me, the rolex was just too grand, id rock it if i was an eccentric millionaire maybe but as i am id just feel a bit silly with it on my wrist
Nice watch. Good life story and how it relates to this watch. For many people, a watch represents a particular time, event or stage in life. You don't have to be a watch enthusiast to celebrate a specific achievement via a watch purchase. Great video.
I've only just come across this vid but I've subbed just because of your enthusiasm 👍
Just purchased one. Love it. Great review.Your comments on that dreadful nato are spot on . Cheapens the watch massively. Wouldn't dream of putting it on!
i have one, got rid of my seamaster to get one, the bb36 is a do it all watch, its a dress watch field watch you can swim with it lume is great it has a similar dial to the sub no date which is my favourite watch but i actually like the bb more, the only thing i dont like about it is the clasp, its made well but the clasp is too big so when wearing it it creases at an angle on my wrist due to the long clasp, its a minor gripe
Well if it isn't "it's Kibble!". Always nice to put a face to the ads i see with regularity on the WUS site. I'm also thinking about the BB36, it's reviews like yours that keeps me knee deep with interesting watches (purchasing a 37mm Captain Cook tomorrow) and bank account bereft.
Good luck in your new endeavour, I think your attitude and drive will set you well, take care my friend.
I fell in love with the 41 over the weekend during my visit to Tourneau in Las Vegas. The 36 was beautiful and fit me great, but that 41 has Strap Monster written all over it!
What size wrist do you have?
Totally agree with the NATO strap. Too small and cheapens the whole look. Great revies
Awesome, tried it on earlier today. Gonna get it for my 20th birthday. Cheers!
Nice vid. I’m considering this and the 41. What’s your wrist size?
This is a tool watch - super legible on the go. The OP36 is dressier and less legible, for sure. I have both, love them both, use them for different things.
I got mine recently... Do you ALWAYS get the nato strap in the box with the watch or not? I was expecting to get one in the box as i got it on the bracelet, but didn't get one in the box...
Just wondering whether you found out what caused the scratch to the crystal? I thought Rolex/Tudor didn’t use AR coatings.
I've been shopping around for an everyday watch for quite a while, and I've tried on the bb36 as well as the black-dial 36mm Rolex you referenced. Personally, I will probably end up getting the bb36. I see its identity as flexible more than lost, I think it has great personality (snowflake hands and large, legible pips) while maintaining a conservative styling, and I think it's slightly better to wear with casual dress (though the Rolex beats it out for black tie attire, which I think both can be worn for because of their conservative designs). I believe these reasons, plus the easily serviceable yet reliable ETA movement, will lead me to get the bb36. However, in the end, I can definitely understand arguments in favor of the Rolex.
Thank you for all your videos about the bb36. You've been a real help to me whilst I've been shopping around!
Thank you for watching Daniel! That is fair enough, the Black Bay 36 is by no means a bad watch, I love mine! You'll enjoy it no doubt :)
I agree. Tried both. The BB felt more sleek, refined, lighter on the wrist. Also I didn’t like the blinkiness of the Rolex.
CreepyGUYcool1! Productions I ended up buying the BB, and I haven’t taken it off my wrist for a month and a half! I definitely agree, it’s been a great experience.
Rolex and Tudor don't use anti-reflective coatings. Also, you included a picture of the 39mm OP, rather than the 36mm OP. The 36mm has double batons at 3-6-9, and is more comparable to the Black Bay 36, IMO. I'm going to get the Tudor Black Bay 36 and the OP 36mm in white.
Matt LeMaire Thank you for pointing those out Matt! I thought the Tudors did use anti reflective? I could very well be wrong though
Great choices!
Rolex and Tudor do use anti reflective coating, on the inside of some of the crystals. They do not coat the outside face of the crystal as many other companies do. The cyclops on both Tudor and Rolex is anti reflective on both sides though.
He did, but they offer the 36 that looks the same in black & white
Glad to see things are going well for you and your business james, keep it up :D
Yes the black oyster looks good. Are you thinking of upgrading?
20:45 totally get you, thats why I got an explorer
Fantastic video👍 I love my BB36. I have had it a few months. I got the aged leather. Not a big fan of bracelets. I like the nato strap that comes with it. The space between the lugs adds appeal to me. I looked at the 114270 explorer, but decided, I'm not a Rolex person. This watch is a lifetime keeper. Mine is 4 seconds a day fast. Best review on this watch yet👍
Thank you! Great choice with it on the leather!
I think the way its designed it suits so many situations with the added ability to go for a swim without worrying .
nigel kibble Definitely, though the Rolex is more than sufficient for any water needs I'll have too being a screw down crown and 100M water resistant. I'm sure this won't be leaving anytime soon anyway lol
I actually like it more than the Rolex you showed.
Do you still like this watch? 😄 considering to buy one, because I have Quite small wrists.
Greetings from Germany 😄🤙🏼
I'm about to get one. I also have a white OP39. I'm seeing them as the perfect pair (for me) The OP39 for daily work through fancy occasion, the bb36 from daily to adventure.
Seriously thinking about this to mark my 30th. It’d be my first luxury and the price is still mind blowing, but since the Explorer I is unobtainable this might do the trick. If I can stomach that kind of price.
I've owned the BB36 for about 4 months. I'm not too happy about the accuracy. It has been running between 5 to 7s fast per day. It has me seriously considering flipping it for the new Tudor BB58.
What do you think of the Tudor BB58? It has a 39mm case, a new thinner in-house movement, and doesn't suffer from the same diver/not diver identity crisis that the BB36 does.
Tudor uses top grade ETAs for BB36, not chronometer grade. It means that the movement is capable of reaching COSC, but Tudor didn't send it to have it COSC certified.
If the only problem is because it is 5 to 7 seconds fast a day, you can take it to RSC or local watchmaker to have it adjusted. It should be quite simple and easy job to do.
Regarding Tudor BB58, it is a nice watch. BB36 imo is like dressy type explorer. An odd combination but gorgeous watch nonetheless. I have Tudor BB41 and it looks unlike anything I know unlike the BB36 with explorer, because it is unique in its own right.
I love my black bay black purchased in March and not worn anything else since, the 36mm is so sweet though, perfect size.....
It's tough to take off something that is just so great right? :D
Kibble Watches for sure! 😁
Congrats on your achievement! I'm a bit torn with eventually purchasing my first Tudor as well. I'd think I'd prefer the 41mm case of the Heritage BB, but with my 6.25" wrist the BB 36 seems like a better fit.
I just picked one of these up about a month ago. I tried the 40mm Black bay and found it just a bit too chunky for my small wrist size. This 36mm is awesome it's like a well fitted pair of shoes. Mine too was a bit of a spur of the moment purchase . I was going to look at getting the new Black Bay 58. Decided on this instead as I have enough divers in my collection.
Fair play Logan! This watch is perfect as it is still definitely a more than capable dive watch but disguised in a great size and case! Thank you for watching :)
Great vid. The wrong size nato is pretty crazy to me, ESPECIALLY for a watch at this price point. Sign of a company that just doesn't care.
Great video mate. You're a great talker and pleasure to listen to. I'm currently having the hardest time choosing between this and the Rolex explorer.
A great watch. I tried one on last year and the build quality is really excellent
The Rolex you are showing, is the new 39mm and I don't believe it is available in 36mm, if so, please share the reference number of the 36mm Rolex. Thanks
Nice vid. Ive got a craving for this watch. Prob get this in about a year or so. I have an Oyster Perpetual 36(blue)166000 but those over sized lumes/hands on the dial look so great on the Tudor. Yea...identintity issue a bit but such a fun looking watch. The one thing Ive learned in my watch collecting and jewelry career is that its better to wait until you can add to the collection rather than sell one to get one. The couple pieces Ive sold to to get something else, Ive always regretted later. Most customers I talk to at the watch counter offer the same sentiment.
bought my 2nd bb36 cuz i regretted selling it at first
How big is your wrist
im waiting to sell my tudor royal which I love but just cant get to fit me well and I will immediately get this one
I think you are absolutely right, the BB is a little confused while the Rolex OP is much more confident it what it is. The new OP are great,but do you really want to pay the same again on top for something so similar? What about a change to a Aqua Terra or something like that? Great vid though 👍
Nice watch just not 36mm way too small. In terms of the crystal issue, it’s not just tudor Rolex do the same and had to service my rootbeer to change the crystal when I scratched the glass and wanted around £800. Tudor customer care is great they repaired my Tudor after a fault when it was over a year out of warranty so I can not fault them. And in terms of the quality compared to the Rolex I can honestly tell people there is no way my gmt CHNR should be 3x more expensive then my black bay S&G. Think I might need to add a 41mm black bay silver dial to the daily driver collection great value for money.
Never mind the OP, trade it out for a 14270, it will cost less (maybe) and the Explorer is “perfect” in every way!
It's a policy for Rolex SA to do a full service on watches if you want replacement parts (bezel, sapphire glasses, etc).
if I could design a tudor black bay , it would be with a date function. the steel version has a date function. $3675 dollars and no date function, if I pay the $3800 for the steel edition I get my date back. I guess I will get the black bay 41 mm on a steel bracelet. the rolex submariner no date is $7500, with the date $8550. do I want to spend this much on a watch. no, so I am back to the BB 41mm with no date. I have a rolex air king 34mm, too small for my big wrist. the BB you have looks very good , your are correct its a dress dive watch. it looks like Tudur will win this one on the cost alone.
Great watch. I feel that if you're going to compare it with rolex then it's likely to be a Rolex Explorer l. 36mm or 39mm.
Great review. Love the watch. Only thing holding me back is the price for a Selitta 200-1. Good movement but I have a Glycine Sub 36 with the same movement and better specs.
Wow James to leave home and own a new Tudor plus own your own company all before your 21 is pretty spectacular mate.
Love your passion and I see your predicament with it not having a clear identity. I personally think your too hung up on this, I bought an Oris Aquis (the black, blue starburst dail) because it fullfiled 2 roles 1 as an out and out Diver, 300 metres so not to be sniffed at. On the bracelet it is so elegant it easily is at home a dress piece too. I would look upon yours like this too if I were you.
Myself I could not wear a Rolex (although I did inherit one but at 30mm unwearable for me), and although I realise it's not a vintage Newman Daytona it's the worry I couldn't live with of been a target (Michael McIntyre only this week). Flip side is because of your age people think it has to be fake (almost worse right?) either way I prefer understated luxury but that's just my opinion!
Have not had chance to compare but think I would pick the 41mm over the 36 as I have 7" wrists. I'm not the Time Teller so wearing a silly small watch does look to me like I have stolen it from my 12 year old son!!
Hi Mark, thank you for watching and being a long term viewer!
I couldn't agree more, I am definitely too hung up on the identity of the watch as I absolutely love it regardless ahaha! The Aquis is a great choice! You're so right about the Rolex points, being my age most would think it is a fake for sure lol.
Lol at 7" I suspect the 41mm might wear better though the 36mm is perfect in my eyes and wears well on most wrists! Lol I love the Time Teller, only guy I know with wrists his size wearing small watches ahah! Classy in my opinion but I totally get what you mean ;)
7in wrists are baby sized. You shouldnt go larger than 41mm lmao
if this watch is a chronometer, it would be undisputably perfect
Good point on the Rolex vs Black Bay. Rolex has the better design although the black bay is beautiful. My favorite Rolex is the explorer vs a sub.
I love the snowball hands on it
Great video review. I have this watch as well and I really enjoy it. Seems like a common thread that people who saw it and tried it on fell for it and couldn’t get it off their wrists, and in my case I bought it immediately. I’m also in agreement that it has a bit of an identity crisis with the large snowflake hands and the generous lume in such a “dressy tool-watch” package. The other common thread I’ve noticed is the comparison between it and the oyster perpetual, and maybe more-so the explorer. Which I think is actually a superior watch but I just don’t like the dial and indexes enough to shell out 3x the price of the BB36 to buy one. All in all, great review as you’d actually covered the same amount of content as having to watch 2-3 other video reviews of similar duration. Bravo and congrats of one year of ownership of a great watch.
compare to rolex 114300 black, which u prefer?
IMO the OP is a dress watch and not so much as a sport watch. However, it does goes pretty well as a casual watch eg wear with jean & t shirt etc. So I think it will be versatile to meet your lifestyle.
To me that Rolex oyster at the end looks super boring with sticks hads and boring indexes looks way cheaper than black bay 36 which has super charm with its snoflake hands and indecies. Anyway thanks for review mate it helps a lot for choosing bb36.
Dive watches are nice but nothing beats a good old fashioned GADA watch. The black bay 41mm or 36mm is more versatile than a dive watch.
Nice vid. I considered the BB36 but went for the Explorer 114270. For me the dial and hands on the 36 Explorer cant be beat.
If the budget could stretch I probably would have done the same! Thank you for watching Jon
Liked and subscribed and all power to your elbow, or should that be wrist? Either way, good luck to you fella.
Really like the BB36. I see it as being a little like the explorer, which I own: a do everything watch.
Managed to go a third of the way thru the video, almost eight minutes, without actually talking about the watch. Impressive.
I've got 3 years on my Invicta, and it's-2 seconds after daily wear.
Thanks man. I'm 6'3 with a 8in wrist. So the 41mm version for me.
What’s your wrist size?
Definitely try the OP first in reality James, I think you'll prefer the Explorer I but that's just me ;-) Also the 36mm OP has double markers at each quarter, you may not like that when seeing it in real life. the dial on the 39mm one is much cleaner in real life. Also - thanks a lot for the kind & unexpected mention - need to get you a new strap! :-)
Atelier de Griff I do like the Explorer but as a direct comparison to the BB36 I think it's more the OP. Congrats on your new Explorer!!!
cheers! Yes I agree, the Explorer is basically... the explorer :-) No comparison
Great vid james! Totally agree about the camo nato, just dont get there thinkinh behind it and the sizing wtf!!!
But you know i love the watch. Those hands are so iconic now.
I think u wud regret selling it..... Unitll u bought an OP!!!
Watchthisspace82 Watchthisspace82 Yes the Nato is a strange one! Though They offer a black NATO with it now which is apparently perfectly fitted.
I agree! I'd have sellers remorse immediately but then I'd be super happy with the Rolex no doubt lol
I have heard you name mentioned in other videos, pretty new to watches. I am really keen to pull the trigger on the BB36, But I have my eye on a Seamaster Aqua Terra Quartz.
What’s the height of the case for the BB36?
What they mean is they want to reward your purchase decision by giving you a right royal shafting.
James I totally get your point at the end of the video. Maybe the BB36 isn’t an enthusiasts watch?
James C Potentially! As someone who is so into watches and assesses every little detail it's a tough watch to love every aspect.
Thank you for watching! Which do you prefer? The Tudor or the Rolex?
Kibble Watches I’ve seen those new OP’s and they are beautiful! as an owner of a vintage OP it has to be the Rolex for me. But not to take anything away from the Tudor I love that watch and have considered it myself many times. I’m hankering after a Rolex Explorer 1 39mm or an Omega Railmaster (the one that Bark&Jack reviewed) I tried the Omega on today and I’m in love with it! What are your thoughts?
Not a fan of the bb 58? The bb 36 is a bit dressy for daily wear imo
Fantastic video. Thank you.
You’re very mature for your age mate cheers keep it up
Great choice and good job dodging the Tag.
I bought that exact tag recently, It’s a brilliant watch and looks great
Good choice, just love it!
This watch is awesome I tried on the very same and the next week bought a 1968 no date black dial Tudor
One day I can afford this BB36 BAD BOY !
Rajazraj1992 Great choice with the vintage one!!
Great review👍 I also own a BB36 since a few months and it definitely my favorite edc watch. Now I really want to buy the new BB58😅
Same as me! The BB58 is perfect on wrist :D Thank you for watching!
Yes i agree buddy, it's a lovely watch but the perpetual is the way.