Watches · Tudor

Market trend (recent months)

Brand overview

Created by Hans Wilsdorf (founder of Rolex) in 1926, Tudor was born with the goal of offering the robustness and reliability of a Rolex at a more accessible price. In recent decades, the brand has emancipated itself from its 'parent company', becoming an icon of neo-vintage style and technical innovation with its in-house movements and bold designs.

For much of its history, Tudor used Rolex cases and crowns paired with third-party movements (such as ETA) to contain costs without sacrificing quality. This strategy allowed Tudor to be chosen by several navies, including the French Marine Nationale. From 2010, Tudor embarked on a path of strong independent identity, culminating in 2015 with the launch of its first in-house calibre (MT5612). Today Tudor is recognised for its 'Born to Dare' spirit, willing to experiment with materials like bronze and titanium, and for the Black Bay collection that redefined the market for vintage-inspired sports watches.

Iconic models and lines

• Black Bay (2012-present) — A perfect synthesis of Tudor's diving heritage.
• Pelagos (2012-present) — A technical diving watch in pure titanium.

What collectors watch for

• 'Snowflake' models (square hands)
• 'Marine Nationale' examples with MN engravings
• Tudor 'Monte Carlo' (1970s chronographs)
• Vintage Tudor Submariner (e.g. ref. 7922)

Curiosities

• The Tudor logo evolved from a rose (Tudor family) to a shield (resilience).
• Tudor supplied watches to the French Navy for over 30 years.
• The name was initially registered by a merchant on behalf of Wilsdorf.

Frequently asked questions