bachelite ghiera tudor | Rolex GMT

The allure of vintage Tudor watches is undeniable, fueled by their connection to Rolex, their distinctive designs, and their increasing rarity. Within this captivating world, the "Bachelite Ghiera Tudor" – referring to Tudor bezels crafted from Bakelite, a type of early plastic – holds a special significance. While not universally present across all Tudor models, the presence of a Bakelite bezel can significantly impact a watch's value and collectibility. This article will delve into the specifics of Bakelite bezels found on certain Tudor models, particularly focusing on the sought-after "Big Block" chronographs, exploring the nuances of identification, historical context, and the factors that contribute to their desirability. We will also touch upon related topics, including the "Big Block" reference 79160, comparisons to Rolex GMT bezels, and the broader landscape of vintage watches with Bakelite bezels.

The Enigmatic Appeal of Bakelite

Before diving into the specifics of Tudor watches, it's essential to understand the material itself: Bakelite. Invented in the early 20th century by Leo Baekeland, Bakelite was the first synthetic plastic, revolutionizing manufacturing and design. Its durability, moldability, and unique aesthetic made it a popular choice for various applications, including watch bezels.

The appeal of Bakelite bezels lies in several factors:bachelite ghiera tudor

* Vintage Charm: Bakelite immediately evokes a sense of vintage charm, a reminder of a bygone era of watchmaking where materials were chosen for their practical properties and unique character.

* Warm Patina: Over time, Bakelite develops a distinctive patina, a subtle aging process that imparts a warm, almost amber-like hue to the material. This patina is highly prized by collectors, as it adds to the watch's individual character and story.

* Depth and Gloss: When properly polished and maintained, Bakelite exhibits a unique depth and gloss, giving the bezel a luxurious and captivating appearance.

* Rarity and Collectibility: Bakelite bezels were not used on all Tudor models, and their production was discontinued in favor of more modern materials. This scarcity contributes to their collectibility and value.

However, Bakelite also has its drawbacks:

* Fragility: Compared to modern materials like ceramic or aluminum, Bakelite is relatively fragile and prone to cracking or chipping, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or impacts.

* UV Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can cause Bakelite to fade or discolor over time.

* Difficult Restoration: Restoring a damaged Bakelite bezel is a challenging and often expensive process, requiring specialized skills and techniques.

Tudor "Big Block" Chronographs and the Bakelite Bezel Debate

The Tudor "Big Block" chronograph, particularly references 79160, 79170, and 79180, is a highly sought-after model among Tudor enthusiasts. These chronographs, so named for their thicker case profile compared to earlier "Monte Carlo" models, represent a significant step in Tudor's evolution, bridging the gap between vintage aesthetics and more modern functionality.

The question of whether or not "Big Block" models originally came with Bakelite bezels is a complex one, often debated within the vintage watch community. While the majority of "Big Block" models are known to have aluminum bezels, some sources and anecdotal evidence suggest that early examples, particularly those from the late 1970s and early 1980s, may have been fitted with Bakelite bezels, or at least had Bakelite bezel inserts.

The "Big Block" Ref. 79160: A Focal Point

The reference 79160 "Big Block" chronograph is often cited as a key example in the Bakelite bezel discussion. It is powered by the Valjoux 7750 movement, a robust and reliable automatic chronograph caliber. The 79160 is appreciated for its classic design, featuring a stainless steel case, a black or silver dial with contrasting subdials, and a rotating bezel.

The debate centers on whether some early production 79160 models were fitted with Bakelite bezels from the factory, or if any "Big Block" models were retrofitted with Bakelite bezels. While concrete documentation is scarce, some collectors argue that the subtle differences in bezel appearance, particularly the depth and warmth of the color, the gloss, and the way the bezel ages, suggest the presence of Bakelite in certain examples. The serial numbers could be a key factor as well.

Identifying a Bakelite Bezel: Clues and Considerations

Distinguishing a Bakelite bezel from an aluminum bezel requires careful examination and attention to detail. Here are some clues to look for:

* Color and Hue: Bakelite bezels often have a warmer, more amber-like hue compared to the cooler, more metallic appearance of aluminum.

* Gloss and Depth: Bakelite tends to exhibit a deeper, more lustrous gloss than aluminum, especially when polished.

* Aging and Patina: Bakelite bezels often develop a distinctive patina over time, with subtle variations in color and texture.

* Weight: Bakelite is generally lighter than aluminum.

* Sound: Tapping a Bakelite bezel often produces a duller, more muted sound compared to the sharper, more metallic sound of aluminum.