Introduction
Debuting in 1954, the Tudor Submariner set out on its journey as a more affordable version of the Rolex Submariner, which had been released the year prior, in keeping with Tudor's original ethos. A legendary watch thanks to its ties to the French Navy amongst other military forces, the Tudor Submariner's history as one of the most widely issued military dive watches speaks for itself. Keen to produce just as high-quality a product as their sibling, Tudor fitted the Submariner with OEM Rolex parts throughout its construction, except for its third-party movement. As one of the later references, the Submariner ref. 79090 features the most modern movement of any Tudor Submariner within its 40mm stainless steel case, the high-grade ETA cal. 2824-2. Renowned as perhaps one of the most robust and widely used automatic movements ever, the ETA 2824-2 featured in various Tudor models for over 30 years – a true testament to its quality. Fitted with a Rolex Triplock crown and flip-lock clasp, the ref. 79090 is a stunning timepiece that harbors some of the modern creature comforts we ask of our watches while still retaining a vintage feel. This is thanks to its anodized aluminum bezel insert, hollow end links, and hollow center links, all design details that are quickly fading from modern horology.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Tudor
Dimensions
40mm
Model
Submariner
Movement
Self-Winding ETA Caliber 2824-2
Reference
79090
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
1990
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Offered in spectacular condition this example's matte tritium dial is in excellent condition with slighted aged pearly hour markers and matching luminescent hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Inarguably iconic, the Tudor Submariner's construction is complemented by its sharp-toothed bezel providing rich utility to divers timing their descent and ascent into, and out of, the depths.
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
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case has been previously detailed but retains thick lugs. Case shows light signs of wear but no major dings or marks. The matte dial in near-mint condition with original light toned tritium indexes and matching tritium hands. The bezel pearl is darkened and cracked but the bezel insert itself is near-mint. PLEASE NOTE: The end pieces on the watch are aftermarket, and NOT ROLEX manufacture and the bracelet is a genuine 19mm (Should be 20mm) 78350 with 1 removable link.
Our Perspective
By the early 1990's, Rolex had already moved on from the matte dials they had earlier used since the mid 1960's in favor of a more contemporary looking glossy dial with white gold indexes, and most importantly, a sapphire crystal. Thankfully, Tudor was a bit behind the curve, and this 79090 from the early 1990's still has all the features that vintage collectors appreciate.
