Tudor’s Royal line has always been a bit of an oddball in the brand’s catalog. It isn’t the Black Bay with its tool-watch heritage, and it isn’t the Pelagos with its titanium diver credentials. The Royal sits somewhere else entirely - in that space Tudor calls “sport-chic.” Now, the brand is leaning into the “chic” side with two new 28mm versions, both featuring blue dials dressed up with diamonds ๐๐
What’s New ๐น
The main story here is the dial. Tudor has taken its familiar Royal aesthetic and added diamond-set Roman numeral markers, plus a bezel sprinkled with even more diamonds. Paired with a lacquered blue dial, it’s a combination that feels instantly more classy. Available in stainless steel or steel & yellow gold, both firmly in the unisex, but feminine-leaning category.
Under the Hood โ๏ธ
Inside beats the T201 (modified ETA 2671), 25 jewels, 4Hz, 38h power reserve. Solid, reliable – not groundbreaking, but perfectly fitting for a jewelry-oriented watch.
Price & Positioning ๐ฐ
Stainless steel: 3,900€
Steel & yellow gold: 5,450€
Cheaper than a diamond Rolex, pricier than a plain Black Bay. Perfect for someone who wants sparkle โจ without breaking €10,000+.
The Design Quirk ๐ญ
That half-cut “III” at 3 o’clock (thanks to the date window) continues to divide opinions. Even more so when surrounded by diamonds. Some love the character, others see it as a compromise.
Big Picture ๐
The Royal isn’t Tudor’s grail. It’s not about heritage or tool-watch romance. It’s a flashy, city-lights Swiss watch for those who want the name and the shine.
Final Thoughts ๐
Not for hardcore collectors, but for those wanting accessible sparkle from a Swiss luxury brand, the new 28mm Royals do their job beautifully.