THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: TUDOR
MODEL: 73090
YEAR: 1990
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 33mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

Tudor, Rolex’s sister brand, has been producing Submariners since 1954, starting with the reference 7922. Conceived as a more affordable alternative to the Rolex Submariner, Tudor Subs were only discontinued in 1999. It's no secret we love vintage Tudor Subs here at Falco. Aside from the movement, these watches were largely manufactured by Rolex. But while Rolex took a steady, conservative approach, Tudor had far more creative freedom—leaving behind a brilliant catalogue of Submariners: black, blue, snowflake, lollipop... the list goes on.

The reference 79090 is a well-loved "neo-vintage" classic, and many are familiar with the 36mm 75090. But the reference 73090 we have here flies well under the radar, even among seasoned collectors. This "Mini Sub" features a 33mm case but doesn't cut corners on any of the functionality found in its larger siblings.

Surprisingly, it wears extremely well—even on an average men’s wrist. The tritium dial is spotless, with creamy lume plots and no imperfections. The case is in excellent condition, and the original folded Oyster bracelet (yes, still used in the '90s) has only mild stretch and comfortably fits up to a 19cm wrist. The movement has just been freshly serviced and runs strong at +2 s/d, 275 amplitude, with a 0.2 ms beat error.

It comes complete with its original box and paperwork (originally sold in Hong Kong). Fair warning: your other half might steal this one.