Side by side

Formex Reef 42 mmvsTudor Black Bay

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

Reef 42 mm
FormexReef 42 mm
MSRP $2,414
Black Bay
TudorBlack Bay
What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Formex Reef 42 mm

The Formex Reef 42 mm is widely praised for its comfortable bracelet featuring a micro-adjust clasp, COSC-certified Sellita movement, and excellent build quality. Owners appreciate the gradient dial's visual appeal and the overall wearability. Some owners note the seconds hand does not perfectly align with markers, and one owner found the lugs' taper hinders third-party strap fit. The bracelet's length and sporty design are noted as limiting versatility by some. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef 42 mm highly for its impressive wearability and value at the price point.

Tudor Black Bay

Owners widely praise the Tudor Black Bay for its comfortable wearability, robust build, and vintage-inspired aesthetics, with specific mentions of its satisfying winding feel and sturdy bezel action. Reviewers highlight the 39mm Black Bay 58's comfortable size and thinness, while others note the 41mm Master Chronometer's reliable timekeeping and magnetic resistance. Some owners find the GMT hand difficult to distinguish in low light. A recurring point of contention across multiple sources is the lack of on-the-fly micro-adjustment on the bracelet, though some find aftermarket solutions adequate. One owner reported the watch losing two minutes a day after six years, requiring a service. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Tudor Black Bay highly for its blend of vintage charm, modern robustness, and comfortable wearability.

From video reviewers

The COSC-certified accuracy of the movement is a notable strength. The 14.7mm to 14.8mm thickness is cited as a potential drawback. Reviewers are divided on whether the newer models represent a departure from the Black Bay's heritage design.

At a glance

10 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Reef 42 mm42mm
Black Bay41mm
Power Reserve
Reef 42 mm56h
Black Bay70h
Water Resistance
Reef 42 mm300m
Black Bay200m
MSRP
Reef 42 mm$2,414
Black Bay

Full specifications

Case

6 specs
Diameter
42mm
41mm
Thickness
11.4mm
14.7mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
46mm
Finish
Brushed and polished
Polished + Satin
Water Resistance
300m
200m
Caseback
Solid
Engraved

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW300-1
MT5602
Power Reserve
56h
70h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,414
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