Tudor
1958 Tudor Prince Oysterdate 34 (Ref. 7944) Black Honeycomb Dial W/ Roulette Date
Tudor’s origins trace back to 1926 and Hans Wilsdorf’s vision of offering the quality and dependability associated with Rolex at a more accessible price. Pairing reliable Swiss movements with Rolex-manufactured Oyster cases, Tudor established a reputation for robust, thoughtfully constructed watches. Yet the brand’s appeal has always extended beyond its relationship with Rolex, with distinctive dial treatments and design choices giving vintage Tudor a character all its own.
This 1958 Tudor Prince Oysterdate ref. 7944 captures that identity beautifully. Its classically proportioned 34mm Oyster case frames a black honeycomb dial, whose intricate texture brings depth and dimension to an otherwise restrained design. Gilt hands provide a warm contrast against the dark surface, while the alternating red and black numerals of the roulette date add another detail that makes watches of this era so engaging.
Together, these elements deliver much of what collectors love about mid-century Rolex and Tudor: enduring proportions, practical construction, and distinctive details that reward a closer look. Comparable Rolex configurations often command substantial premiums, making this Prince Oysterdate a compelling expression of Tudor’s original appeal. With its black honeycomb dial and roulette date, the ref. 7944 offers both the familiarity of its shared heritage and a personality that stands comfortably on its own.
SPECS
| Stock # | TDR79960-3 | |
| Brand | Tudor | |
| Style | Prince Oysterdate 34 | |
| Model | 7944 | |
| Serial | 20XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Black "Honeycomb" | |
| Millimeters | 34 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 7205 Rivet-Link Oyster Bracelet W/ 57 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The stainless steel case remains in excellent condition, retaining thick, symmetrical lugs with only light evidence of prior polishing and gentle signs of wear. The smooth stainless steel bezel remains crisp, showing similarly light wear, and the case retains its Rolex-signed Twinlock crown. The case back preserves its original factory engravings in crisp, deep condition, alongside the personalized initials “W.B.E.” The watch is fitted with a later Rolex 7205 rivet-link Oyster bracelet with 57 end pieces, complementing its vintage aesthetic beautifully. The bracelet exhibits light stretch and retains 12 links, accommodating a wrist up to 7.5 inches.
DIAL & HANDS
The original black honeycomb dial remains exceptionally well-preserved, with its intricate texture and warm gilt details creating an elegant vintage aesthetic. The dial exhibits only subtle signs of age, with no notable damage, and retains its beautifully preserved gold gilt text. The gilt hour markers remain in excellent condition, while the radium plots at the tips have developed a charming beige patina with minor, expected degradation. The gilt dauphine hands are also in excellent condition and have been professionally restored with tritium that complements the aged lume of the dial. The alternating red-and-black “roulette” date wheel remains original to the watch.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.