1967 Tudor Submariner Ref. 7928 'Gilt Chapter Ring' dial 'Silver print'

Tudor began being manufactured under Rolex in 1946. Early on, the French Navy equipped its divers (plongeurs de bord) with Tudor Submariners. The first Tudors were purchased by the M.N. (Marine Nationale) in the late 60's. This model seemed to meet army specifications for Commando Marines.

 

The Tudor Submariner Ref. 7928 was first introduced in 1960. The Ref. 7928 shares a lot of similar design elements to the Rolex Refs. 5513/5512, although different. Fact is that the Rolex Submariner and the Tudor Submariner were developed at the same time and launched just a few months apart from each other. The Tudor Submariner Ref. 7928 is just as handsome as it gets as it wears a unique charm and feeling.

This present example dates to 1967 and it remains in an outstanding condition. A real tool watch.

 

The rare Gilt Chapter Ring dial with silver print has aged beautifully, where the both the chapter ring and the printings are extremely well preserved with no missing paint. The hour markers have developed a puffy, charming golden patina giving the watch so much character. The hands have aged to a similar tone.

 

The case has been previously polished back to factory standards, presenting diagonal finishes towards the interior of the lugs, as well as pronounced bevels as sharp as a tool watch should be.

 

The case back remains in great condition, showing some little signs of wears and use, probably remaining unpolished.

 

The bezel insert is lovely, having aged to a faded gray hue.

 

The original acrylic crystal is preserved, making the hour plots look like egg-shaped due to its domed finish. It presents some minor marks.

 

It is suited on a 20mm unworn handmade leather strap with stainless-steel buckle.

 

The watch is running great and keeping time, although service history is unknown.