The Tudor 94010 in its captivating blue variant holds a special place in the hearts of vintage watch enthusiasts. This reference, a prominent member of Tudor's Oyster Prince Submariner lineage, offers a compelling blend of rugged functionality, classic design, and a distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart from its Rolex counterparts. It's a watch that speaks to a generation seeking a robust tool watch with a personality all its own.
The Tudor 94010, particularly the blue version, represents a sweet spot for collectors. It embodies the classic Submariner design cues, shared with its Rolex sibling, but with a distinct Tudor flavor. This includes the iconic "snowflake" hands and indices, a feature that gives the watch a unique and instantly recognizable character. While the Rolex Submariner focused on a more refined and arguably conservative aesthetic, the Tudor embraced a more utilitarian and adventurous spirit.
Finding the Perfect 94010 Blue: A Collector's Quest
The allure of the Tudor 94010 Blue translates to a vibrant market for these vintage timepieces. For those seeking to acquire one, platforms like Chrono24 offer a valuable resource for finding and comparing deals. A quick search reveals numerous listings for the ref. 94010, allowing potential buyers to assess the condition, price, and provenance of various examples. The ability to compare deals across different sellers is crucial in making an informed decision and securing the best possible price.
However, navigating the vintage watch market requires diligence and a keen eye. Not all 94010s are created equal, and factors such as originality, condition, and service history can significantly impact their value. It's essential to thoroughly examine the watch's details, request high-resolution images, and, if possible, seek the opinion of a trusted watch expert before committing to a purchase.
Tudor 94010 Specifications: A Deep Dive into the Details
Understanding the specifications of the Tudor 94010 is crucial for any prospective buyer. Here's a breakdown of the key features:
* Case: Stainless Steel, typically 39mm in diameter. The case features a robust construction, designed for durability and water resistance. The classic Submariner case shape is instantly recognizable, but with subtle differences in the lug profile compared to Rolex models. The case back is typically stamped with the Tudor logo and reference number.
* Movement: The Tudor 94010 typically houses the ETA 2784 automatic movement. This is a reliable and widely used workhorse movement known for its robustness and ease of servicing. While not an in-house movement like those found in Rolex models, the ETA 2784 provides accurate timekeeping and a dependable performance.
* Dial: The dial is the defining feature of the 94010 Blue. It's a deep, rich blue color that can vary in shade depending on the production year and the watch's exposure to sunlight and environmental factors. The dial features the iconic "snowflake" hour hand and a matching seconds hand, along with tritium lume plots that develop a beautiful patina over time. The dial is signed "Tudor" and "Oyster Prince" at the top, and "Submariner" and "200m = 660ft" at the bottom.
* Bezel: Unidirectional rotating bezel with a blue aluminum insert. The bezel is used for timing dives and other events. The blue insert complements the dial and adds to the watch's overall aesthetic appeal. The bezel typically features luminous pip at the 12 o'clock position.
* Crystal: Acrylic crystal. This type of crystal is common in vintage watches and is known for its warmth and character. While acrylic crystals are more prone to scratches than sapphire crystals, they can be easily polished to remove minor imperfections.
* Bracelet: Typically comes with a folded-link Oyster bracelet, or a NATO strap. The Oyster bracelet provides a comfortable and secure fit, while the NATO strap offers a more casual and versatile option. Some examples may also be found with a Jubilee bracelet.
Tudor 94010 Specs: A Closer Look at the Technical Aspects
Beyond the general specifications, a deeper understanding of the Tudor 94010's technical aspects can further inform your purchase decision:
* Water Resistance: Officially rated to 200 meters (660 feet). While this was the standard for Submariners of the era, it's crucial to have the watch pressure tested by a qualified watchmaker before engaging in any water activities, especially given its age.
* Lume: Tritium lume. Tritium was the standard luminous material used in watches during the 1970s and 1980s. Over time, tritium lume loses its luminosity and develops a characteristic patina, which is highly sought after by collectors.
* Crown: Screw-down crown with the Rolex coronet. This is a shared component with Rolex Submariners and contributes to the watch's water resistance.tudor 94010 blue
* Case Dimensions: Approximately 39mm in diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, and 13mm thick. These dimensions make the 94010 a comfortable and versatile watch for a wide range of wrist sizes.
Tudor 94010 Price: Navigating the Market Value