Within recent years, TUDOR has witnessed a sharp rise in popularity, gaining many devotees within the watch community. One of the key factors in this surge has been their release of smaller case sizes for their certified hits.
In the past, the brand was known for the larger Black Bay models. But recently, they’ve found the perfect sweet spot when it comes to sizing by coming up with watches that are neither too big nor too small. This is evident with the launches of the Black Bay 58, which is considered the best TUDOR Black Bay by many, as well as the Black Bay Pro, the Pelagos 39, and the Ranger.
It is worth noting that the Black Bay collection comes in a variety of sizes, complications, dials, and features. If we’re comparing the brand’s bestselling line to the Ranger, then the Black Bay 36 and 39 would be the Ranger’s closest matches.
If you’re looking for a TUDOR watch but feel that the Black Bay 41mm would be too bulky on your wrist, you might want to consider these two models: TUDOR Black Bay 36 vs Ranger. Let’s dive into the differences between these two so you can decide which one will best fit your needs.
Tudor Black Bay 36 vs Ranger
If you’re considering TUDOR Ranger alternatives, check out the latest Black Bay 31/36/39/41. This subcollection has changed the Black Bay’s sporty character into a dressier model. It comes with a curvier, more refined case with polished and domed flanks, and also a softer silhouette. It also comes in a sunburst dial in blue, anthracite, and light champagne colors. The signature snowflake hour hand remains, with a longer minute hand and a lollipop-shaped seconds hand. The hands and applied indices are treated with Grade A Super-LumiNova for excellent visibility in low light conditions.
These watches were launched after TUDOR’s move from Rolex’s production facility into its very own Le Locle manufacture, which is why it makes sense that these newer Black Bays would have an in-house COSC-certified movement. The Black Bay 36mm is powered by the in-house caliber MT5400, with 70 hours of power reserve.
Diamond-set versions are available for those looking for a bit more sparkle, while a steel and yellow gold bracelet is also available for those looking for a two-toned version. This subcollection comes with a five-row Jubilee-style bracelet fitted with TUDOR’s T-fit quick-adjustment clasp. The fixed bezel and reduced water resistance means that this subcollection is markedly different from the dive watch capabilities of the core Black Bay models.
TUDOR Ranger
The TUDOR Ranger was launched in 2022 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the British North Greenland Expedition. This new Ranger pays tribute to the TUDOR Oyster Prince ref 7809 watch worn by the expedition members in 1952. The Ranger has a 39mm case with a smooth, satin-brushed steel fixed bezel. Its matte-black, grained, domed dial is often compared to that of the Rolex Explorer, and also features 3-6-9-12 hour markers painted in a yellowish-green Super-LumiNova.
The watch is powered by the COSC-certified MT5402 caliber and has a power reserve of about 70 hours, which means you can take it off on a Friday evening and put it back on on Monday morning without having to wind it. The Ranger comes in three bracelet options: a steel bracelet with a rapid adjustment system, an olive-green Jacquard fabric with beige and red stripes, and a hybrid leather and rubber strap.
Ultimately, choosing between the Black Bay and the Ranger comes down to personal preference. The Black Bay models are more dressy and versatile, while the Ranger has a rugged, adventure-ready appeal. Both are excellent choices, backed by TUDOR’s reputation for quality and precision.
