TUDOR returns to the grid with the Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 26,” a limited-edition racing chronograph that channels Formula 1 performance through lightweight engineering and striking yellow accents
Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026 has brought its fair share of horological spectacles, but TUDOR arguably stole the spotlight in the pit lane. The brand has officially unveiled the Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 26” (Reference 79377KN), a high-octane evolution of last year’s limited release. While the previous “Carbon 25” paid tribute to the livery of the 2025 Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 02 car, the new 2026 model adapts seamlessly to the team’s latest machine, the VCARB 03. This is far more than a simple palette swap. Instead, it stands as a showcase of material engineering and racing heritage.
The core philosophy behind any modern racing machine is simple: less weight equals more speed. TUDOR fully embraces this mindset by crafting the exterior from track-ready materials. The watch features a redesigned 42mm case and a fixed one-piece tachymetric bezel, both rendered entirely in lightweight carbon fiber. To maximize structural durability, TUDOR also utilizes titanium with a sleek PVD finish for the screw-down pushers and winding crown, which is signed with the iconic Tudor rose in relief.
The case back is likewise fashioned from PVD-finished titanium, serving as a clean canvas for custom engraving and individual production numbering. Beneath the domed sapphire crystal sits a striking “racing white” dial featuring a layered construction that alternates brass discs with thin carbon fiber sheets. The technique frames two luminous black carbon fiber sub-counters—a 45-minute counter at 3 o’clock and a small seconds display at 9 o’clock—alongside a clean date aperture at 6 o’clock.
Still, the most striking visual update is the bright yellow accent running along the minute track, a direct nod to the vivid yellow found on the engine cowling of the VCARB 03 Formula 1 car. TUDOR’s signature “Snowflake” hands also make an appearance, outlined in black and filled with Grade A Swiss Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility.
Naturally, a high-performance racing chronograph is nothing without a competitive engine beneath the hood. Powering the “Carbon 26” is the self-winding Manufacture Chronograph Calibre MT5813, developed in collaboration with Breitling and derived from the Breitling Calibre B01. The movement nevertheless incorporates a high-precision regulating organ and exclusive finishes crafted in-house by TUDOR. It also delivers a 70-hour power reserve and carries certification from the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).
On the wrist, the watch is secured by a hybrid leather-rubber strap embossed with a distinct “tire pattern.” In keeping with the pursuit of weight reduction, even the end-links affixing the strap to the 42mm case are rendered in carbon fiber. Currently worn in the paddock by VCARB drivers Liam Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad, the watch also boasts 200m (660 feet) of water resistance. Prospective buyers, however, will need a lightning-fast pit stop of their own. TUDOR is limiting production to exactly 2,026 individually numbered examples worldwide.
TUDOR’s racing lineage stretches back to the Tudor Watches Racing Team of the 1960s and the brand’s campaign featuring the Porsche 906 in Japan. With the Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 26,” the brand channels that vintage spirit while delivering cutting-edge carbon performance. For enthusiasts following Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, TUDOR has firmly claimed pole position.
Text Riga Ramadhan