The Tudor watch brand has a rich history dating back to 1926 when it was founded by Hans Wilsdorf, the visionary behind Rolex. Wilsdorf sought to create a more affordable line of watches without compromising on quality, and thus, Tudor was born.
The name “Tudor” was chosen to evoke the spirit of England’s Tudor period, a time known for its exploration and cultural renaissance. From its inception, Tudor focused on producing reliable timepieces that were robust, precise, and designed for everyday wear.
In the early years, Tudor watches (alongside Rolex) were known for their technical innovations. The Tudor Oyster was launched in 1947 – a patented design that provided exceptional water resistance. This innovation helped establish Tudor’s reputation for producing durable and reliable watches, capable of withstanding the most challenging conditions.
During the 1950s, Tudor further played off its sister company Rolex with the introduction of the Tudor Submariner – a diver’s watch that quickly gained popularity among both professional divers and enthusiasts. The Tudor Submariner featured a distinctive snowflake-shaped hour hand, which became an iconic design element of the brand. The watch’s robust construction and reliable performance made it a favourite among military personnel and adventurers.
In the 1960s, Tudor continued to expand its range of watches and, in 1970, introduced the manually wound Oysterdate Chronograph, a sporty timepiece with a bold and dynamic design. This Chronograph captured the spirit of the era, appealing to a younger, style-conscious audience. The brand’s commitment to producing high-quality watches at more accessible price points than Rolex helped Tudor carve out its own niche in the luxury watch market.
In the following decades, Tudor underwent various transitions and evolutions. The brand experienced a hiatus in the 1990s but made a triumphant comeback in 2009. The relaunch of Tudor was marked by the introduction of new models and an increased emphasis on design and innovation. Tudor watches began incorporating in-house movements, showcasing the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and technical expertise.
Tudor’s revival was met with great enthusiasm, and the brand continued to expand its offerings. It introduced new collections like the Tudor Heritage line, which paid homage to the brand’s iconic models from the past while incorporating modern elements. These timepieces combined vintage aesthetics with contemporary features, appealing to watch enthusiasts who appreciated the fusion of tradition and innovation.
Today, Tudor stands as a respected and sought-after watch brand in its own right. The brand has earned a reputation for producing high-quality timepieces that offer exceptional value for money. Tudor watches are celebrated for their reliability, precision, and enduring style.
With its distinct designs, technical innovations, and commitment to affordability, Tudor has established itself as a formidable player in the luxury watch industry. The brand’s heritage and connection to Rolex provide a strong foundation, while its continuous drive for innovation and creative design keep Tudor at the forefront of horological excellence.
Do you have a Tudor watch in need of repair? Get in touch and see how we can help. Our fully equipped, in-house workshop and highly trained watchmakers are able to repair almost any make and model of watch, modern or vintage. We offer a fully insured freepost repairs service, as well as the option to drop repairs off in-person via our showrooms in Lewes and Uckfield, Sussex. We are Business Partners of the British Horological Institute and holders of a coveted Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award – testament to the quality of our work and the service we provide.
Yours sincerely
David Clark FGA DGA MJVA PJDip. PJGemDip.
Managing Director, JVA Registered Valuer®
W.E. Clark & Son Limited