The Tudor Heritage Advisor 79620T, a modern revival of the classic Tudor Advisor alarm watch from 1957, stands as a testament to Tudor's ability to blend historical design cues with contemporary watchmaking prowess. This piece, particularly in pristine condition like the "New" 2021 model complete with original box and papers, available around $5,170, offers a compelling proposition for collectors and enthusiasts alike. It embodies the core values of Tudor: robustness, reliability, and a distinctive aesthetic, all while paying homage to a significant chapter in the brand's history. This article delves into the intricacies of the Tudor Heritage Advisor, exploring its design elements, movement, legacy, and its place within the broader context of Tudor's heritage collection. We'll also address common questions about this remarkable timepiece.
A Nod to the Past: The Heritage Advisor's Design Language
The Tudor Heritage Advisor 79620T is not simply a re-issue; it's a sophisticated reinterpretation. It retains the spirit of the original 1957 Advisor (Reference 7926) while incorporating modern materials, improved functionality, and a larger, more contemporary case size. The original Advisor was notable for being one of the first alarm wristwatches produced by Tudor, a significant achievement that solidified the brand's reputation for innovation and practicality.
The most striking element of the Heritage Advisor is undoubtedly its dial. Available in various color combinations, the most common features a silvered opaline center with a sunray satin finish on the outer section. The applied hour markers, often baton-shaped with a polished and faceted finish, lend a touch of elegance and legibility. The dauphine hands, also polished and faceted, further enhance the dial's sophisticated aesthetic.
The alarm function is prominently displayed on the dial, with a dedicated hand pointing to the desired alarm time. The alarm power reserve indicator, usually located at 3 o'clock, provides a visual representation of the remaining power for the alarm function. At 9 o'clock, a sub-dial indicates the running seconds, a subtle yet essential element of the watch's functionality. A power reserve indicator for the main timekeeping function is typically located at the 6 o'clock position. A date window, often positioned at 3 o'clock, adds another layer of practicality to the watch.
The case of the Heritage Advisor is typically crafted from titanium and steel. Titanium is used for the case middle, providing a lightweight and comfortable feel on the wrist, while the steel bezel, caseback, and pushers add robustness and durability. The case size, usually around 42mm, is a significant departure from the original Advisor's smaller dimensions, catering to modern preferences for larger watches. The combination of brushed and polished surfaces on the case adds visual interest and further elevates the watch's overall aesthetic.
The most recognizable visual cue that links the Heritage Advisor to its predecessor is the prominent alarm pusher at 2 o'clock. This pusher, often adorned with the Tudor rose logo, activates and deactivates the alarm function. A separate crown at 4 o'clock is used to wind the alarm spring and set the alarm time. The main crown at 3 o'clock is used to wind the mainspring, set the time, and adjust the date.
The Heart of the Matter: The Tudor 1475 Movement and its Evolution
The original Tudor Advisor (Reference 7926) was powered by a manually wound movement, the A. Schild caliber 1475. This movement, known for its reliability and robustness, was a workhorse caliber that powered many alarm wristwatches of the era. The A. Schild 1475 was characterized by its simple yet effective design, its ease of servicing, and its distinctive alarm chime. While the exact specifications may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, the A. Schild 1475 typically operates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz) and offers a power reserve of around 40 hours.tudor advisor heritage
The Tudor Heritage Advisor, however, takes a significant step forward in terms of movement technology. While the exact caliber used is not officially designated by Tudor with a specific number (like MT5602 for their in-house movements), it's understood to be a modified ETA 2892-A2 with an added alarm module. This choice is a strategic one, leveraging the reliability and widespread availability of the ETA 2892-A2 while adding the complexity of a mechanical alarm function. The ETA 2892-A2 is a well-regarded automatic movement known for its thin profile, accuracy, and robustness. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), offering a smoother sweep of the seconds hand and improved timekeeping accuracy compared to the original A. Schild 1475.