THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: TUDOR
MODEL: 7926
YEAR: 1961
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 34mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND

The 7926 was Tudor’s opening gambit in the world of alarm watches. Launched in 1957, it remained in production until 1968, before being replaced by the 10050 in 1969. Early examples featured a crosshair dial with spearhead markers and an alarm hand that extended all the way to the outer minute track. In 1960, the design evolved into the dial configuration we see on the example offered here.

This piece has survived in tremendous condition. The dial shows virtually no degradation, all radium plots are intact, and the hands show minimal corrosion. The original 3/61-stamped rivet bracelet has been re-pinned and shows no sag. It will comfortably accommodate a 19cm wrist.

The AS 1475 Schild movement was serviced within the last 6 months and is running at -6 s/d, 265 amplitude, and a 0.4 ms beat error in the crown-up position.

Be warned — if you forget about the alarm, it’s loud enough to wake you up at 2 a.m., even after 65 years!