tudor 2483 | Vintage Tudor 7016/0 ETA 2483

The Tudor 2483. The name itself might not immediately conjure images of horological excellence for the uninitiated. However, for those familiar with the history of Tudor, particularly their iconic Submariner lineage, the "2483" represents a crucial component – the engine, the beating heart – of a particularly significant reference: the 7016. This article aims to delve into the significance of the Tudor 2483 movement, its role within the context of the 7016 Submariner, and its lasting impact on the brand’s legacy. We will explore the movement's connection to its ETA origins, the historical context of the Tudor Submariner line, and the enduring appeal of these vintage tool watches.

The Tudor Submariner 7016/0: A Pivotal Reference

Before we dive into the specifics of the 2483 movement, it's crucial to understand the context within which it lived: the Tudor Submariner 7016/0. Introduced in the late 1960s, the 7016 represented a pivotal shift for Tudor's Submariner offerings. While previous models, such as the 7922, 7924, and 7928, had established the Submariner's reputation as a robust and reliable tool watch, the 7016 brought a new level of refinement and distinct identity to the line.

The 7016/0 is characterized by several key features:

* Case: Sharing a similar case design with its Rolex counterpart, the 5513, the 7016 featured a 40mm stainless steel case, known for its robust construction and water resistance (originally rated to 200 meters). The case, however, was produced by a different supplier than Rolex, which is a key distinction.

* Dial and Hands: The 7016 is best known for its "snowflake" hands, which are square-shaped and highly legible. These were introduced as an alternative to the traditional Mercedes hands found on Rolex Submariners and earlier Tudor models. The dial itself featured printed indices, providing a clean and functional aesthetic. Some 7016 models also came with more traditional Mercedes hands.

* Bezel: The 7016 featured a bi-directional rotating bezel with a black aluminum insert marked with elapsed time. This bezel was crucial for divers to track their underwater time.

* Movement: And here we arrive at the heart of the matter: the ETA Calibre 2483, prominently featuring the inscription "TUDOR AUTO-PRINCE" on the rotor. This movement is the subject of our focus.

* Case Back: The screw-down case back, a hallmark of the Submariner's water resistance, is engraved with "MONTRES TUDOR S.A. GENEVA.", clearly identifying the watch's origin.

The 7016, with its snowflake hands and robust construction, quickly became a favorite among divers and military personnel. Its association with the Marine Nationale Française (French Navy) further solidified its reputation as a professional-grade tool watch.

The ETA Calibre 2483: A Reliable Workhorse

The ETA Calibre 2483 is a self-winding movement manufactured by ETA SA, a Swiss movement manufacturer renowned for producing reliable and affordable movements for a wide range of watch brands. Tudor, unlike Rolex, relied on ETA movements for many of its watches, a key factor in differentiating the brand and offering a more accessible price point.

The 2483 is a relatively simple, yet robust, movement designed for functionality and dependability. Key features include:

* Automatic Winding: The self-winding mechanism automatically winds the mainspring as the wearer moves their wrist, providing a constant source of power. The "TUDOR AUTO-PRINCE" inscription on the rotor signifies this automatic winding capability.

* Date Function: While some variations of the 7016 did not feature a date complication, others did. The 2483 movement allowed for this date function, adding to the watch's practicality.

* Frequency: The movement typically operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph), providing a smooth sweep of the seconds hand.

* Jewels: The 2483 typically contains around 25 jewels, strategically placed to reduce friction and wear on critical moving parts, contributing to the movement's longevity.

The choice of the ETA 2483 was a strategic one for Tudor. It allowed them to offer a high-quality, reliable movement at a more affordable price point compared to in-house movements developed and produced by Rolex. This accessibility, combined with the robust design of the Submariner case, made the 7016 a popular choice for both professional divers and everyday wearers.

Tudor's "Auto-Prince" Designation: A Legacy of Reliabilitytudor 2483