LEARN MORE $3,575, tudorwatch.com


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I don't have a child—yet. But I want one. Ditto that for the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight watch. Now, let's be clear: I am not equating the desire for a family with the desire for timepiece, no matter how exceptional that timepiece may be. I'm just saying that I'm in my mid-30s, married, and hoping for a kiddo one day in the not-too-distant future. And if everything works out as hoped, I'd be pretty damn happy to pass that watch on to the next generation when the time comes.

Watch, Fashion accessory, Analog watch, Silver, Metal, Silver, Font, Chain, Jewellery, Platinum,
Kathryn Wirsing

It's timelessly stylish.

The Black Bay Fifty-Eight debuted just this year. So we aren't talking about a model that's been around for half a century or more. But that doesn't matter, because it has exactly that vintage feel, from the classic diver design cues to the perfect-for-me (and you!) 39mm case width. The Fifty-Eight is named for the year Tudor introduced the "Big Crown" (reference 7924) diver's watch, and it shares era-appropriate details with that generation of Tudor dive watches, which happens to be the first built to be water resistant to 200 meters. Those details are complemented by more modern touches like the satin-brushed steel finish. In other words, the perfect new watch for guys who appreciate time-tested style.

Watch, Analog watch, Watch accessory, Fashion accessory, Jewellery, Strap, Brand, Material property, Font, Metal,
Kathryn Wirsing

CALL TO BUY $3,575, watchesofswitzerland.com

It's built to last for generations.

Let's not forget why Swiss timepieces command such prestige (and price): They're expertly crafted, and made to last. I love a quartz watch, don't get me wrong, but a mechanical one—steeped in tradition, stunning in its complexity—is something else entirely. The Black Bay Fifty-Eight features a new automatic movement from Tudor, designed specifically for medium-sized watches. The Calibre MT5402 is a sight to behold, with its laser decorations and pops of color. But what matters most is that it just plain works. It's certified as a chronometer (so you know it's accurate), sports a 70-hour power reserve, and is built for durability. Take proper care of it, and it'll last pretty much forever.

Watch, Analog watch, Fashion accessory, Metal, Strap, Titanium, Steel, Material property, Silver, Watch accessory,
Kathryn Wirsing

It's worthy of becoming a keepsake.

I first fell in love with the Black Bay Fifty-Eight at Baselworld, the dizzying watch trade show that happened earlier this year. Its subdued good looks just stood out from the crowd. Then, when Watches of Switzerland opened its new retail outpost in New York City, I was reminded that my affections hadn't tempered. The feel of the thing on your wrist, the knowledge that it's never going out of style—these are the reasons people invest in a high-end watch. It's also why, when the time comes, they feel comfortable passing them on to the next generation.

I'll admit I got a little teary when my mother gave me my grandfather's old watch. I'm hoping, in time, my watch will have the same effect. If it's good enough to inspire this kind of emotion, if it's still ticking and doing its job, then it's good enough for my kid. Someday—and after I've had a chance to wear it first.


Prop styling by Jeffrey Miller

Furniture by and special thanks to DWR