tudor 24040 | Tudor Hydronaut

The Tudor 24040, a reference within the Tudor Hydronaut II line, represents a fascinating chapter in Tudor's history, showcasing a blend of sporty aesthetics, robust construction, and accessible luxury. This article will delve into the specifics of the Tudor 24040, exploring its design, historical context, price trends, and overall appeal. We will examine its variations, particularly focusing on the stainless steel models, including the popular silver dial version and the 31mm automatic women's variant. Furthermore, we’ll address the pre-owned market for the 24040, providing insights into its value proposition and collector appeal.

The Tudor Hydronaut Legacy

Before diving into the specifics of the 24040, it’s crucial to understand the lineage of the Tudor Hydronaut. Introduced in the early 2000s, the Hydronaut was conceived as a modern, sporty alternative to Tudor's more established dive watch lines, like the Submariner (before its discontinuation) and later, the Pelagos. It was aimed at a younger, more active demographic, offering a contemporary design with a focus on functionality and value.

The Hydronaut distinguished itself with its angular case design, integrated bracelet (on some models), and bold, legible dials. It was positioned as an everyday sports watch, capable of withstanding the rigors of an active lifestyle while remaining stylish enough for more formal occasions. The Hydronaut II, the second generation of the line, refined the design language of its predecessor, introducing subtle changes to the case shape, dial layout, and bezel design. The Tudor 24040 is a prominent model within this second generation.tudor 24040

The Tudor 24040: A Closer Look

The Tudor 24040 is a versatile reference that came in various configurations, but the most commonly encountered is the stainless steel model. Its key features include:

* Case: Typically measuring around 36mm to 39mm for the men's models (sizes varied slightly depending on specific configuration) and 31mm for the women's version, the case is crafted from high-quality stainless steel. The design features a distinctive angular profile with polished and brushed surfaces, providing a visually appealing contrast. The case is water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and light water activities. The 31mm version catered specifically to women who desired a smaller, more elegant sports watch.

* Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel is a crucial feature for divers, allowing them to track elapsed time underwater. On the 24040, the bezel typically features a black insert with luminous markers for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The bezel action is generally firm and precise, providing a satisfying tactile experience.

* Dial: The dial of the Tudor 24040 is designed for optimal legibility. Common dial colors include silver, black, and blue. The hour markers are typically applied luminous indices or Arabic numerals, providing excellent visibility. The hands are also luminous, ensuring readability in dark environments. The silver dial version is particularly popular, offering a clean and classic aesthetic.

* Movement: The Tudor 24040 is powered by a reliable automatic movement, typically an ETA-based caliber modified by Tudor. These movements are known for their robustness and accuracy, providing years of dependable service. The automatic winding mechanism ensures that the watch remains powered as long as it is worn regularly. The women's 31mm model also houses an automatic movement, albeit a smaller caliber to fit the smaller case size.

* Bracelet/Strap: The Tudor 24040 is typically offered with either a stainless steel bracelet or a rubber strap. The stainless steel bracelet features a robust construction with a secure clasp. The rubber strap provides a more sporty and casual look, ideal for active wear. Both options are designed for comfort and durability.

Tudor Hydronaut II 24040 Price Chart and Historical Price Trends

Understanding the price trends of the Tudor 24040 requires considering several factors, including the condition of the watch, its age, whether it comes with its original box and papers, and the specific variation (dial color, bracelet/strap configuration).

Tudor Hydronaut II 24040 Price as of February 2025 (Estimated):

It's important to note that providing exact prices for pre-owned watches is challenging, as prices fluctuate based on market demand and individual seller preferences. However, as of February 2025, we can estimate the following price ranges for the Tudor 24040:

* Excellent Condition (with box and papers): $1,500 - $2,500

* Good Condition (with box and papers): $1,200 - $2,000

* Fair Condition (watch only): $800 - $1,500

* Tudor Hydronaut II StainlessSteel 31mm Automatic Women's (Excellent Condition): $1,000 - $1,800

Historical Price Trends: