Why This Watch Matters
A classic, straightforward steel workhorse with a big Tudor Rose at 12 o'clock. And who doesn't like to have the full set of original accessories all intact?
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 Submariner with the snowflake hand 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. However, Tudor has never compromised its quality, and the watches – both vintage and contemporary – all look great in their own right.
The watch we have today is a non-lume stainless steel Prince Oysterdate. At a quick glance, it looks like an understated piece, but there are little details that make paying closer attention to this classic watch worth it. The case and bracelet designs (both corresponding to the year 1966) are borrowed from the Rolex Date model with the three-body stainless steel Oyster case with a smooth bezel made by C.R. Spillman S.A (CRS), the same casemaker as Rolex at the time. CRS also famously made cases for the manual-wind Rolex Daytonas of the era. And to keep with the vintage theme, this watch carries over the riveted bracelet, which we all love for its nostalgic appeal.
Yet, when we look at the beautifully patinated silvered dial, it features the clear indication of the Tudor brand. First off, it has an applied big Rose logo at the top. It's very uncharacteristic of a Tudor from the period to have such an oversized Rose logo. In addition, the applied dart hour markers add a bit more pizazz than conventional baton indexes. The watch is currently featured with a non-Cyclops crystal, which makes for a smoother aesthetic. However, it also comes with the original crystal, so you can enjoy a variety of looks.
The original sales receipt shows that this watch was purchased on July 1, 1968, through PACEX which was a catalog for American servicemen in the Pacific, who could purchase goods intended for sale in the markets in which the men were stationed. This watch comes with a full set with the presentation box, the original guarantee paper, the hang-tag, and all the other goodies – always a welcome addition to any collection.
The Fine Print
Maker: Tudor
Model: Prince Oysterdate
Reference: 7996
Year: 1966
Case No: 544918
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 34mm diameter; 10.5mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: No
Caliber: Tudor, self-winding, caliber 2462
Bracelet/Strap: Rolex stainless steel rivet Oyster No. 7205 bracelet with No. 61 end-links
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: Yes, this is accompanied by its presentation box, guarantee (blank), original receipt, hang-tag (with corresponding reference number), Tudor cigarette card, and original crystal
What we Love and What You Should Know
The watch is overall in very attractive vintage condition. The case remains strong with some light scratches from regular wear. The caseback engraving is still crisp and legible. The dial and hands are in very nice condition, with a touch of light patina across the board. The riveted bracelet is also in very good condition, with some minor stretch between the links, which is common for this type of bracelet. Another notable detail is that the case and the bracelet are matching in terms of the production year (circa 1966), which we appreciate for consistency. The watch comes with a full set, with its original presentation box, guarantee (blank), original receipt, hang-tag (with corresponding reference number), Tudor cigarette card, and original crystal, which all are very well-preserved. The case, dial, and movement are signed Tudor, and the crown is signed Rolex. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
