tudor 94200 vs 79160 | tudor oysterdate 2023

The Tudor "Big Block" chronographs, specifically the references 94200 and 79160, represent a significant chapter in the brand's history. Introduced in the late 1970s and early 1990s respectively, these watches bridged the gap between Tudor's reliance on Rolex designs and a move towards greater independence. They are highly sought after by collectors for their robust construction, appealing aesthetics, and historical significance. While both share the "Big Block" nickname due to their thicker cases housing automatic movements, subtle yet crucial differences distinguish the 94200 from the 79160, impacting their value and desirability. This article will delve into a detailed comparison of these two iconic chronographs, exploring their history, design elements, movements, variations, and market value, providing a comprehensive guide for collectors and enthusiasts.

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Historical Context: The Birth of the "Big Block"

Before the "Big Block" era, Tudor chronographs were primarily manual-winding models, heavily influenced by Rolex Daytona designs. However, the demand for automatic chronographs was growing, prompting Tudor to develop a new generation of timepieces. The "Big Block" series, starting with the 94200 in 1976 (although availability started later, aligning with the '1979 Tudor Big Block' reference), marked Tudor's foray into automatic chronograph movements. These models were noticeably thicker than their predecessors, hence the nickname "Big Block." This thickness was necessary to accommodate the Valjoux 7750 movement, a reliable and widely used automatic chronograph caliber.

The 79160 followed the 94200, continuing the "Big Block" lineage and introducing some refinements. Both models retained the robust Oyster case, screw-down pushers, and distinctive aesthetics that made the series so popular. The "Big Block" series, including the 79170 (another reference within the 79000 series, distinguished primarily by its bezel), solidified Tudor's reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and stylish chronographs at a more accessible price point than Rolex.

Design and Aesthetics: A Detailed Comparison

While both the 94200 and 79160 share the fundamental "Big Block" design language, several key differences set them apart.

* Bezel Options: This is arguably the most significant differentiating factor. The 94200 offered two bezel options:

* Acrylic Bezel (similar to Rolex Daytona 6263): This bezel features a black acrylic insert with white tachymeter markings. It provides a vintage, sporty look, reminiscent of the classic Rolex Daytona. Due to the fragility of acrylic, finding 94200s with original bezels in excellent condition is increasingly challenging. This is a very attractive and desirable option for many collectors.

* Steel Engraved Bezel (similar to Rolex Daytona 6265): This bezel is made of stainless steel with engraved tachymeter markings. It offers a more robust and tool-like aesthetic compared to the acrylic bezel.

The 79160, on the other hand, primarily featured a steel engraved bezel. While variations with acrylic bezels *may* exist in very small numbers (potentially experimental or service replacements), they are exceptionally rare and not considered standard production models. The standard steel bezel on the 79160 is more refined than that of the 94200, with slightly bolder and more modern font.

* Dial Variations (tudor dial 79160): Both models were available with various dial configurations, but subtle differences exist. Common dial colors include black, silver, and grey.

* "T Swiss Made T" vs. "Swiss Made": The 94200 typically features the "T Swiss Made T" designation at the bottom of the dial, indicating the use of tritium lume. The 79160, produced later, transitioned to "Swiss Made" as Tudor moved away from tritium in favor of safer luminescent materials. This is a key indicator of the age and production period of the watch.

* Dial Text and Fonts: Minute differences can be found in the fonts used for the Tudor logo and other dial text between the two references. These variations are often subtle and require close inspection to identify. Specific dial variations can significantly impact the value of a particular watch.

* Case Design: Both models share the same fundamental "Big Block" Oyster case, known for its robustness and water resistance. The case measures approximately 40mm in diameter and features a screw-down crown and pushers to ensure water tightness. The lugs are relatively thick, contributing to the watch's substantial presence on the wrist.tudor 94200 vs 79160