Founded in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf as an everyday man’s alternative to his other brand, Rolex, Tudor used Rolex’s parts such as cases, crowns and bracelets to create equally rugged timepieces as its sibling brand, but with third-party movements that greatly reduced the cost of the watches for the end consumer. Taking close inspiration from Rolex due to having to use the same parts, Tudor’s early offerings are often virtually indistinguishable from Rolex. However, as Tudor evolved and its catalog expanded, Tudor’s offerings slowly began to show signs of Tudor’s own design language, just like this Tudor Oyster ref. 7803. Constructed using parts from a Rolex Oyster, the Tudor Oyster is a rugged 32mm stainless steel watch on an Oyster bracelet and a no-frills case with a simple domed bezel. However, instead of an equally no-frills dial, this ref. 7803 features a white dial with 18kt gold applied indices and a large red enamel floral motif that was clearly inspired by Tudor’s rose logo, a celebration of Rolex and Tudor’s English heritage. A move away from the simplicity that often dominated the Oyster collection, this example showcases that while Tudor was limited in the construction of the watches they could make, they always had the ability to give their watches something that set them apart as unique offerings with their own styling.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case is moderately worn, with a visible ding on the lower right lug edge. The original dial shows light surface damage, with some spotting and oxidation. There are remnants of the luminous dots still present. The original engraved enamel center in red is in excellent condition. There are no visible cracks, but light surface wear and some imperfections in the print. Crystal is scratched. Watch comes on a later folded oyster bracelet with 12 links total. There is light stretch and if fits a 6 1/2" wrist.

Showcasing a side to Tudor that Rolex has never really explored for itself, this Oyster ref. 7803 shows that while Tudor might have been very closely linked to its older sibling during the mid-century, the brand always had the flair to do new and unusual things.