Why This Watch Matters

Here is everything that is great about 1940s Tudor, all wrapped up in a steel case.

The Full Story

Tudor has remained in the tall shadow of big brother Rolex for decades, but that's not true anymore. With the international success of its Black Bay collection in 2010s, it shows the Swiss brand hasn't forgotten its vintage roots. From the "Snowflake" Submariner and the "Big Block" chronograph, Tudor has always separated itself from Rolex by being a bit more funky and adventurous compared to the largely conservative Crown. Particularly in the 1940s, there is so, so much to explore in the world of vintage Tudor.

The watch we have here is very reminiscent of we offered just months ago. Both having an even and beautifully presenting dial patina that is sure to stun in person even more so than it does in photos. From the applied numeral markers to the dial patina and blued-steel accenting used in the hands it is a pair of watches like these two that can teach us collectors so much about how Tudor and Rolex interacted in this era. The design language is just so similar. You can really see, in a watch like this one, Hand Wilsdorf's original vision for Tudor, the same great Rolex look and feel, with an off-the-shelf, quality movement. There were some serious design chops working under the Rose logo back in the day, just as there are today.

We paired this great vintage Tudor with our Beige Calfskin strap to play off of the dial patina and applied hour markers.

The Fine Print

What We Love And What You Should Know

Things We Love:

Things To Know:

- Scratches on case
- Patina on dial 

This Tudor is in overall great, honest condition. The case is strong with scratches. The reference number on the caseback is visible and crisp. The caseback has a few scratches, and the coin-like edge remains in excellent condition. The back of the lugs have some scratches and wear. The bezel is in good condition with some scratches.

The dial is in overall great, honest condition with patina throughout. The dial has aged to a beautiful creamy beige color with some spots of darker patina throughout, this all works very well together. The dial has a dark mark above the "R" in Tudor. The hands and applied hour markers have developed patina too. The printing across the dial is crisp and remains a dark black.

This Tudor has retained its original Oyster crown. The dial, crown, case, and movement are all signed by Tudor. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.