Tudor Heritage BB Red ‘Smiley’

Tudor Heritage Black Bay “Smiley” Red | Ref. 79220R

Offered here is the original Tudor Heritage Black Bay “Smiley” Red Ref. 79220R, the watch that redefined Tudor’s identity and laid the foundation for the hugely successful Black Bay collection. Introduced in 2012, this first-generation model is widely regarded as one of the brand’s most collectible modern timepieces, distinguished by its iconic “Smiley” dial, Tudor Rose logo, and ETA movement. 

The beautifully domed black dial features gilt detailing, applied luminous hour markers, and Tudor’s signature Snowflake hands. Its defining feature is the curved “Self-Winding” text above 6 o’clock, affectionately known by collectors as the “Smiley” dial, alongside the vintage Tudor Rose emblem at 12 o’clock. Completing the look is the striking burgundy aluminium bezel, giving the watch its unmistakable character and vintage-inspired appeal. 

Powered by the proven ETA 2824-2 automatic movement, the original Black Bay offers exceptional reliability, ease of servicing, and a slimmer case profile than its later in-house successors. Housed in a robust 41mm stainless steel case with a screw-down crown, domed sapphire crystal, and 200 metres of water resistance, it remains a highly capable dive watch as well as an outstanding everyday wearer. 

As the very first Black Bay reference, the 79220R holds a special place in Tudor’s history. With production lasting only until 2016 before being replaced by the in-house calibre models, first-generation “Smiley” examples continue to be highly sought after for their historical significance, vintage charm, and growing collector appeal. 

Key Features:

• Tudor Heritage Black Bay “Smiley” Red Ref. 79220R
• First-generation Black Bay (2012–2016)
• 41mm stainless steel case
• Black domed “Smiley” dial with gilt accents
• Tudor Rose logo at 12 o’clock
• Burgundy aluminium unidirectional dive bezel
• ETA 2824-2 automatic movement
• Domed sapphire crystal
• Screw-down crown
• 200m water resistance
• Stainless steel bracelet

The watch that launched Tudor’s modern renaissance, the Black Bay “Smiley” Red combines vintage aesthetics, proven reliability, and exceptional collectability, making it one of the most iconic and desirable models in the brand’s history.