THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: TUDOR
MODEL: 79090
YEAR: 1992
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 39mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

By the late 1980s, the new generation of Rolex Submariners had fully arrived—first with the 16800 and the later 5513, which introduced gloss dials with white gold surrounds, and soon after with the 14060 and 16610, which brought sapphire crystals and updated movements.

Looking back, however, it was Tudor that produced the last Submariners to retain what we now consider true vintage DNA. The reference 79090 remained in production until the mid-1990s, still fitted with an acrylic crystal and a handsome matte dial with tritium lume. The blue variant, in particular, has long been a favourite among enthusiasts.

From where we sit, it’s clear that collectors are waking up to the appeal of blue 79090s—the last few we’ve had barely stayed with us for more than a few days. We’re therefore delighted to have sourced another excellent example. This watch dates to 1992 and remains in unpolished condition. The blue dial is flawless, with the tritium markers and hands having aged evenly to a lovely pale cream hue, while the original blue bezel insert has mellowed gently over time.

Mechanically, the watch is in excellent health, running at +3 s/d, with 285° amplitude and a 0.3 ms beat error. It is fitted to a brand-new, unworn Tudor 78500 bracelet with 380B end links, recently supplied by Tudor.

A cool shade of blue to carry you through the heatwave.