Overview
Blue dive watches like this have become emblematic of the Tudor brand over the years, starting with the iconic Snowflake in 1969 and continuing with the modern Black Bay and Pelagos lines. As far as the vintage models are concerned, the blue Submariners are more rare than their black dial counterparts and are highly sought because of the color distinction from Rolex Subs. This particular example takes things a step further with a highly desirable metallic "ghost" bezel insert that has faded to a lovely pale blue.
Specifications
Brand:
Tudor
Model:
Submariner
Reference:
79090
Year:
1992
Case Number:
B405064
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
40 mm
Lug Width:
20 mm
Thickness:
12.2 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
47.5 mm
Dial:
Blue
Lume:
Tritium
Crystal:
Acrylic
Movement:
Automatic
Caliber:
ETA 2824-2
Bracelet/Strap:
Tudor 9315 stainless steel bracelet with 380B end links and P11 clasp code
Max Wrist Size:
7.125in (11 links)
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The case shows signs normal signs of wear for a watch its age, including a few dings and scratches, most of which are present on the case sides. The lugs remain sharp with well-defined chamfers and the original brushed finish is still present. The case back is in good condition with clear engravings and nice contrast between brushed and polished surfaces. The bezel and "ghost" insert show a few nicks and dings as well, but are still very nice overall. The bezel is an original blue 79090 bezel but is not original to this watch. A matching tritium pearl was added by LA Watch Works.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The dial and hands are in excellent condition and the tritium has aged to a lovely custard color. When exposed to UV light, neither the dial, hands, or bezel lume plot exhibit any glow. The acrylic crystal is also in excellent condition with plenty of life left to give.
Bracelet/Strap: The Tudor stainless steel bracelet shows signs of wear consistent with the rest of the watch, including a light stretch and several small scuffs and scratches. The clasp code of P11 is dated to 1991, the end links are correctly stamped 380B, and the 9315 reference marking is present underneath the first link at 12 o’clock. It's worth noting that the diver's extension has a loose fit, causing the attached links to lift the clasp blades. I've included a picture of this, and presumably it can be resolved by a trusted watchmaker.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown-winding, time-setting, date-setting, and bezel rotation are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
