Tudor Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition

In the world of professional cycling, where seconds separate victory from defeat, and physical limits are constantly tested, a rider’s equipment becomes an extension of themselves. Every component, from the aerodynamic design of the bike to the precise gear changes of the shifters, needs to be light, reliable, and built to perform. A rider’s watch is no exception. Tudor, a brand with a long and storied history in tool watches, has taken this concept to heart with the introduction of the Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition.

Tudor watches have always been known for their functionality and durability. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex, established Tudor in 1946 with the specific goal of creating high-quality watches that were more affordable than Rolex models. Tudor watches were designed to be worn every day, in any condition, and quickly became favorites of military personnel, explorers, and professional divers. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition continues this tradition by offering a watch that is specifically designed for the demanding world of professional cycling.



The Tudor Pelagos line has a well-deserved reputation for its dive watches. The Pelagos FXD, released in 2021, was the first fixed-lug dive watch from Tudor. The fixed lugs improve the watch’s streamlining and reduce the risk of snags or damage during a dive. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition takes this basic design and modifies it for the peloton.

One of the most noticeable features of the Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition is its case. Crafted from lightweight carbon composite, the case is both strong and incredibly light. This is a critical feature for a cycling watch, where every gram saved counts. The use of carbon composite is not only functional but also visually striking, giving the watch a high-tech, modern look that is sure to appeal to watch collectors and cycling enthusiasts alike. A keen eye will notice that Tudor hasn’t abandoned all metal in the case construction. Forged titanium is used for the screw-down crown, adding robustness without sacrificing weight.



While the case is undeniably impressive, the true innovation of the Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition lies in its dial. A matte black dial with red accents provides a high level of legibility, essential for a rider who needs to be able to check the time quickly and easily, even in the midst of a race. The watch features a chronograph function, perfect for timing stages or tracking progress during training. However, it’s the tachymeter scale that sets this watch apart from other cycling-inspired timepieces.

Unlike a traditional tachymeter scale, which is calibrated for measuring speed over a kilometer, the Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition’s tachymeter is designed specifically for cyclists. It is calibrated to measure speed over 400 meters, a more relevant distance for cyclists who often train on velodromes or indoor cycling tracks. This subtle detail demonstrates the deep thought and collaboration that went into the development of this watch. Tudor didn’t just create a watch that looked good on a cyclist’s wrist; they created a watch that was a true tool for the sport.



The engine of any watch is its movement, and Tudor has certainly delivered in this department. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition is powered by the Manufacture Calibre MT5813. This automatic chronograph movement is entirely developed and manufactured in-house by Tudor, a testament to the brand's watchmaking expertise. This movement boasts COSC certification, ensuring its accuracy and reliability under the most demanding conditions. And when it comes to endurance, this movement delivers. It features a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, meaning riders won’t have to fret about winding it even on their rest days.

Chronographs come in two main flavors: the more accessible cam-actuated design, and the more intricate column-wheel variety. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism, a choice that speaks to its intended purpose as a high-performance tool. Column-wheel chronographs are prized for their smooth and precise operation, essential qualities when timing those down-to-the-wire sprint finishes or training intervals on the track.



Professional cyclists put their bodies and equipment through the wringer, rain or shine. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition is built to match that stamina. Its water resistance is rated to a substantial 100 meters (330 feet), more than capable of enduring sweaty rides and unexpected downpours.

The watch’s matte black dial is protected by a sapphire crystal. Sapphire is renowned for its scratch resistance, a critical consideration for a watch that might face a tarmac encounter if its wearer takes a spill. The case itself, as discussed in part one, is a masterful blend of carbon composite and titanium, ensuring a balance of weight savings and impact resilience.

Comfort is vital for an athlete, and a watch can be a surprising source of distraction if not designed properly. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition doesn't skimp on rider comfort. Its integrated fixed lugs create a seamless connection between the 43mm case and its single-piece black fabric strap. This design choice not only improves aerodynamics but also reduces potential hotspots on the wrist. In classic Tudor fashion, this isn't your ordinary fabric strap. The single-piece strap is woven using the ‘Jacquard Technique', a traditional method mastered in the St. Étienne region of France. This technique imbues the strap with a supple feel and intricate texture.

Tudor's deep connection with the cycling world is no fleeting trend. The brand has been involved in professional cycling for several years, serving as a key sponsor and the Official Timekeeper of the Tudor Pro Cycling Team. This partnership has been a test bed for Tudor, ensuring that its timepieces are subjected to some of the most demanding conditions known to cycling. The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition is a testament to this ongoing collaboration, born from a shared drive for performance and innovation.



The Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition is not just a remarkable watch; it's a symbol of Tudor’s unwavering commitment to the world of professional cycling. It embodies a tool watch ethos focused on practicality, reliability, and the relentless push for better. Whether you're an avid cyclist or a timepiece enthusiast, this watch is bound to leave a mark, representing a bold step forward in a brand with deep roots and a relentless focus on the future.

The Tudor Pelagos FXD Chrono Cycling Edition has raised the bar for cycling watches. Few other timepieces can claim the same level of purpose-built functionality, technical refinement, and robust performance. It stands as a true testament to Tudor’s dedication to the pursuit of pushing limits, whether on two wheels or within the walls of a watchmaking atelier.