The TUDOR Black Bay P01, reference 70150, is a 42 mm mechanical dive watch inspired by an unusual late-1960s prototype project. TUDOR says “P01” means “Prototype 1.” The production watch is a modern interpretation of an archived design—not the original military prototype.
What does P01 mean?
TUDOR says P01 stands for “Prototype 1.” The name refers to the watch’s connection with a prototype project in the brand’s archives, rather than identifying the production model as an issued military watch. TUDOR introduced the Black Bay P01 in 2019; its official launch video, published March 20, 2019, describes it as based on a late-1960s prototype proposed to the U.S. Navy: TUDOR’s official launch video.
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| 1 |
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Tudor Black Bay P01 Prototype Watch M70150-0001 | $4,250.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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Tudor Black Bay Ceramic Automatic Black Dial Men's Watch M79210CNU-0001 | $5,749.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Tudor Black Bay 54 Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men's Watch M79000N-0001 | $4,619.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Tudor GMT 58 Black Bay | $5,449.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Tudor Black Bay Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men's Watch M79833MN-0001 | $7,499.99 | Buy on Amazon |
What is the Black Bay P01 based on?
According to TUDOR, a project begun in 1967 explored a replacement for the Oyster Prince Submariner reference 7928 in response to U.S. government requirements. The company says its proposal to the U.S. Navy did not reach production; the Navy ultimately adopted TUDOR reference 7016. The Black Bay P01 takes inspiration from the archived prototype associated with that project, but it is a later commercial watch, not the proposed prototype or a Navy-issued model.
Black Bay P01 specifications
| Specification | TUDOR’s 2019 details |
|---|---|
| Reference | 70150 |
| Case | 42 mm, satin-finished steel |
| Crown | Screw-down, positioned at 4 o’clock |
| Dial and crystal | Domed black dial; domed sapphire crystal |
| Water resistance | 200 m (660 ft) |
| Bezel | Steel, bidirectional, 12-hour graduation, 60 notches |
| Movement | Self-winding Manufacture Calibre MT5612; COSC-certified |
| Power reserve | Approximately 70 hours |
| Frequency and jewels | 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz); 26 jewels |
| Strap | Hybrid leather and rubber, with folding clasp and safety catch |
These specifications are from TUDOR’s 2019 press material and describe the model as presented at launch: TUDOR pressroom.
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How the bezel stop and case design work
The P01’s most distinctive functional detail is its bezel-stop arrangement. TUDOR describes a mobile end-link at 12 o’clock that acts as a stop system for the bidirectional bezel. The bezel has 60 notches and a 12-hour scale, rather than the familiar elapsed-minutes dive scale found on many dive watches. The crown sits at 4 o’clock, giving the watch an asymmetrical layout.
The 42 mm satin-finished steel case, domed black dial and domed sapphire crystal reinforce the robust, instrument-like appearance. TUDOR specifies water resistance to 200 m (660 ft); that rating is a manufacturer specification, not a substitute for following appropriate care and servicing guidance.
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Movement, strap and everyday considerations
The self-winding Manufacture Calibre MT5612 is COSC-certified. TUDOR lists an approximate 70-hour power reserve, a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz), and 26 jewels. The hybrid leather-and-rubber strap fastens with a folding clasp and safety catch.
The combination of a 42 mm case and unusual bezel hardware makes fit and comfort personal considerations. TUDOR’s published dimensions establish the case diameter, but do not establish how the watch will wear on a particular wrist; trying it on is the most reliable way to judge fit.
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What did the Black Bay P01 cost at launch?
TUDOR’s 2019 material listed a Swiss price of CHF 3,750 including VAT. This is a launch-era figure for Switzerland, not a current retail price or a resale estimate. Current pricing, stock and seller authenticity are not established here, so confirm those details with a reputable seller before buying.
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