Introduction
First introduced to Tudor’s catalog in 1995 with the ref. 79200 series, the 4th series of the Tudor Oysterdate Chronograph was an evolution of earlier Tudor chronograph models that began to add sleeker designs to the iconic collection’s repertoire. Amongst the changes that the ref. 79200 brought about was a new thinner case design with a sapphire crystal and a move away from Rolex-branded parts such as winding crowns, casebacks, and bracelets. Taking another step forward in 1996, the ref. 79270, which is what we have here, introduced a new black aluminum bezel insert to the Tudor Oysterdate chronograph collection. Printed with a 12-hour countdown scale, this bezel was a significant improvement on the black acrylic bezel inserts that Tudor had been using previously, as they were prone to cracking. Fitted with a black dial with three silver subdials and a cyclops lens-coved date aperture, the ref. 79270 is a monochromatic masterpiece that links vintage Tudor with the modern world of watchmaking with its aluminum bezel insert and sapphire crystal, both of which are still in use by Tudor today.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Tudor
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Prince Date Chrono-Time Chronograph
Movement
Automatic Valjoux cal. 7750
Reference
79270
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
Circa 1996
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Offered in black to match its black aluminum bezel insert, this example's silver subdials burst out of the ref. 79270's display with the utmost legibility. Additionally, its cyclops lens-clad date aperture makes this timepiece all the more useful.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Built like the Daytonas of old, the Prince Date Chrono-Time sits low to the wrist with a sapphire crystal and black aluminum 12-hour bezel - which was introduced to the Prince Oysterdate collection by the ref. 79270.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light scratches on the polished sides and a couple of small nicks, with signs of a previous repolish. The Rolex-signed case back has some light marks. The rotating bezel is well defined, and the black 12-hour graduated insert is very clean. The dial and hands are near-mint. The Tudor-signed solid link Oyster bracelet is excellent, with some light marks and negligible play between the links. The bracelet has 12 links, 2 of which are removable, and fits an approximately 7 1/4” wrist.
Our Perspective
An iconic chronograph that has captured the hearts of Tudor collectors galore, the Prince Oysterdate Chrono-Time has developed a loving following thanks to its interesting place with Tudor's incredible heritage, specifically with regards to their chronograph offerings.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
