151 Tudor Historic and Iconic, Submariner Automatic Wristwatch, in Steel, With Black Dial and Pointed Crown Guards, supplied to the Argentine Navy, Reference 7928
Estimate: €30,000 – 60,000
Sold (Premium)€36,400
Model: Submariner
Reference: 7928
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1961
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 390
Case N°: 338659, 61204-Ci
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Army's Patches and Pins
Literature: This specific watch has been sold at Christie’s "Important Watches" Auction Geneva, 14th November 2011 ″ as lot 204
Over the years, Tudor has launched various successful models, continuing the legacy of the iconic Submariner Ref. 7922 introduced in 1954 and solidifying Tudor’s reputation as a key player in the realm of dive watches. In 1959, Tudor unveiled the first Oyster-Prince Submariner with crown guards, the reference 7928, marking a significant advancement in the watch’s water resistance capabilities and resulting in a smaller crown size. Like Rolex, the crown guards underwent significant evolution at Tudor, with the watch in question featuring the pointed crown guards, characteristic of early production models. Dubbed the “twin” of the Rolex Submariner ref. 5513, it shared the same bezel design and boasted a water resistance of up to 200 meters (660 ft). The reference 7928 remained in production until 1967, during which its dial underwent continual evolution, yet it consistently featured the Tudor rose symbol and “Oyster Prince” at the upper half, and typically, the depth rating “200m=660ft, Submariner, Rotor, Self-Winding” across four lines at the lower half. Crafted in stainless steel, this piece is exceptionally well-preserved, featuring an attractive dark-coloured graduated bezel, and a dial with light/gilted text and index details. Tudor diver’s watches, as reliable as their Rolex "sisters" but offered at a more accessible price, became the preferred choice for many armed forces, including certain units of the French and US Navy. Moreover, some very rare specimens were also allocated to the Argentine Forces, as is the case with this model. The case back is notably marked with a deep and clear military allocation and number: the CI is believed to be a stock code or possibly refers to the Cuerpo Infantería, alongside the standard engraving: “Case by Rolex Geneva—Original Oyster.” The inclusion of military divers’ patches and pins, carefully preserved by the previous owner, infuses this Tudor Submariner 7928 with unique charm and extraordinary historical significance, making it a standout piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.