both the tudor bb noir & omega 2254.50 feature ETA movements, just that the tudor uses the ETA 2824-2 non-chronometer grade movement which is slightly thicker than the chronometer grade ETA 2892-A2 derived caliber 1120 used in the omega 2254.50. the 2892-A2 is thus considered more "refined" (whatever that means) compared to the 2824-A2, and is a popular "tractor" movement on which luxury watch makers use to build on their other complications on account of its "thinness" and lower profile. in addition the power reserve of the 2892-A2 is 44 hrs vs 38 hrs for the 2824-2.
unless I'm mistaken, there should little difference, if any, in terms of servicing cost.
for a new collector, the tudor bb noir is more accessible as more are available in near mint condition with outstanding warranties. the retro-vintage inspired gilt dial and red-triangle on the bezel hits all the rights spots in terms of design and charisma. it would've been even better if tudor had equipped its ETA black bay with a chronometer grade movement, preferably the 2892-A2.
the omega 2254.50 has a strong cult following among those who appreciate its classic design and elegant dress diver proportions, with a dial that is harkens back to the seamaster 300 UK royal navy issued watches to its combat divers, especially the large triangle at 12 o'clock and recessed, shorter hour markers at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock positions which had 3, 6, 9 in the seamaster 300. the recessed shorter 6 o'clock hour marker actually helps offset the 4 liner of text above the 2254.50 dial, making the dial more balanced. having an embossed wave dial makes it look more interesting at certain lighting angles and bears testament that this IS a SEAmaster for aquatic adventures.
having bold sword hands and hour makers with thick layers of generous lume, with the minute and sporty red-tipped second hands reaching right into the minute chapter ring makes the observation of time easy, comfortable and effortless without any guesswork - top tool watch qualities well appreciated by divers - and those with presbyopia like me.
a discrete date window with a background colour matching the dial goes a long way to maintain dial symmetry.
stylish short lyre lugs, thin thickness of 11.5mm and a lug width of 18mm also allows the watch to sit very comfortably and elegantly on your wrist, unlike bulky, heavy watch heads that slosh around your wrist, which when paired with a tapering bracelet like the rolex sub C, makes it look unbalanced. not so the omega 2254.50. it retains the classic proportions that will remain evergreen, classy, dignified and handsome.
its satin brushed finish all-round, highlighted subtly with bits of polished surfaces, is beautiful to behold, and its speedmaster style bracelet has an even better extended milled 316 grade stainless steel clasp with diver's extension than the speedmaster. the seamaster clasp closes flushed, without the protrusion of the speedmaster bracelet, with the bracelet comfortably nestling the watch on your wrist.
the underside AR coated sapphire crystal is slightly domed and contributes to fluid, sensuous character of the watch where its lines flows curvaceously all around the watch case. no sharp, jarring edges.
its low profile lume pip at 12 o'clock, solid end links, engraved wave pattern with the seamaster monster at the caseback with laser-engraved omega globe marking completes this watch that retains the distinctive design elements of the UK navy-procured seamaster 300 in the 60s and 70s with a stylish, inspired wave dial and perfect quality printing on is embossed dial (no mean feat) which looks black from a far but far more interesting close up.
this watch is a bona fide dive watch with a helium escape valve, toughness and specifications that you can take to saturation diving if you are so inclined.
it does double duty too as you can wear it with a suit and not only will it feel at home, it broadcasts that you're a man of action, adventure and good taste.
it can never be confused with a fake or an homage. those who know watches will tip their hats to you for wearing a beautiful handsome watch with a well-respected movement and strong cult following.
ps. forget about the $1.5k 2254.50. it'll never happen again unless it's one that's pretty beat up, damaged or the seller is ignorant or desperate. the fair market price for one without box and papers with be in the low to mid $2k, with few hundred extra for box and papers.