It is commonly known in the collector
community that Tudors were extensively used as issued Military watches. The
reasons may be numerous, but the main one is most likely cost.
In the military watch collectors community
there are several variations of collectability. I have tried to categorize this
in rarity levels. Where 1 is the least rare.
1. Watch purchased by service personell and
used on duty - often seen or documented in books or similar resources.
2. Watch purchased by DOD or specific
military branch directly at Authorized dealership - With or without markings
3. Watch purchased by DOD or specific
military branch directly from Rolex / Tudor - and no markings
4. Watch purchased by DOD or specific
military branch directly from Rolex / Tudor - and structured application of
military markings by DOD / Branch
5. Watch purchased by DOD or specific
military branch directly from Rolex / Tudor - and structured application of
military markings by DOD / Branch + special hands and dials
6. Watch purchased by DOD or specific
military branch directly from Rolex / Tudor - and structured application of
military markings by DOD / Branch + special hands and dials / Panerai.
Type 5 watches would include the British
issued milsubs with special references, engravings and specialized hands and
dials. These are among the most coveted military watches - and prices soar
above the 50-100.000 euro range depending on specifications. Type 6 include the
ultra rare 1940's military Panerai.
So far, we have identified military use Tudors
from the following countries:
- France. Type 4 watches. Sold in batches
directly from Tudor. Marked by French navy. Issued thru the 1960, 70's and
early 1980's.
- Canada. Type 2 watches have been rumored.
Typically from specific batches from bought in free trade from AD's.
- USA. Type 3 and 4. Certain very early
1960's pieces have been identified. Still researching this. Most vietnam area
pieces are Type 1's - and widely identified and discussed.
- Argentina. Researching.
- Israel. Rolex 5513 and Tudor 7928 has
been seen with IDF issue numbers on the caseback. Also other brands seen. Most
likely type 4.
