The Rugby World Cup is a men’s rugby union tournament contested every four years between the top international teams. As the official timekeeper of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan (September 20 to November 2), Tudor will equip all participating referees with a Black Bay Chrono in Steel (see WatchTime’s review from 2018).
More importantly: As a result of Tudor’s partnership with the New Zealand All Blacks and to mark the Rugby World Cup beginning September 20th in Japan, the Swiss watch brand just launched the Black Bay Chrono Dark (Ref. 79360DK): a 41-mm, blacked-out version of the chronograph – matching the All Blacks’ famous jersey – fitted with the COSC-certified MT5813 in-house caliber with column wheel and vertical clutch. The watch is limited to 1,181 pieces (the number of players that have served the legacy of New Zealand’s national rugby team since its creation in 1903); the one number that will not be available to collectors is #1115, which belongs to Beauden Barrett, who holds the world record for consecutive wins since his first test (19 wins from 19 tests).
The New Zealand All Blacks, whom the Swiss brand has had a relationship with since 2017, won the previous Rugby World Cups in 1987, 2011, and 2015. This year they will be defending their title for a third consecutive victory at the event.
The Black Bay Chrono Dark features a satin-brushed steel case and bracelet with a matte finish. It is available immediately, at a U.S. retail price of $5,925. The traditional Black Bay Chrono in steel (which is worn by the referees of the Rugby World Cup) is still available at your local Tudor authorized dealer, and retails for $5,100.
Who makes the movement? Tudor or Breitling?