The Geneva Watch Auction: FIVE [Catalogue]

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46.

A rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with date, accompanied by an additional prototype dial

Rolex introduced Tudor to the market in 1945 with the intention of producing high quality watches at an afordable price. Throughout its history, with Tudor, Rolex experimented with diferent designs and concepts, later to be used in Rolex’s own watches. Accordingly, some might assert that the case of this remarkable chronograph resembles that of the iconic Rolex Daytona reference 6263, since both the acrylic bezel with printed tachometer and screw-down pushers are identical in appearance.

Contrary to today, brands did not have design studios and ofen depended on the dial makers to ofer new designs compliant with their genetic code. As such, some dials made it into production whilst other remained prototypes. The present lot is also accompanied by a prototype dial made by famed dial maker Singer, who also supplied dials to Tudor’s sister brand Rolex. This dial displays a superb black/white/red color scheme bearing the Tudor codes, but which unfortunately never made it into production.

This stainless steel reference is ftted with a stunning matte grey dial with orange accents throughout. Amongst collectors, it is referred to as the “Monte Carlo,” or the “Home Plate” due to its dial design resembling a home plate in baseball. These gorgeous chronographs are amongst the most sought afer of all Tudor watches.

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