Tudor

1994 Tudor Big Block Chronograph (Ref. 79180) Black Dial

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The Tudor "Big Block" chronographs were introduced in 1976 and replaced the Monte Carlo series of chronographs that were originally released in 1970. Both the Tudor Monte Carlo, along with Rolex's Daytona, were manual wind chronographs, whereas the "Big Blocks" were outfitted with an automatic movement. This was a big advancement for Tudor, as it wasn't until 1988 that Rolex offered an automatic version of the famous chronograph via the Zenith-based Rolex movements. Also, unlike the Rolex Daytona, Tudor chronographs, including the Monte Carlo, featured date complications. The "Big Block" nickname comes as a result of the mid-case size, which is thicker and heavier than the big brother Rolex Daytona references, which accommodated the automatic chronograph caliber Valjoux 7750, which also features a quickset date.

SPECS

Stock # TBBC79180
Brand Tudor
Style Big Block Chronograph
Model 79180
Serial B5XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black W/ Silver Sub-Dials
Millimeters 40
Bracelet Tudor 78360 Oyster Bracelet W/ 589 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The large and well-preserved case retains thick and even lugs which feature defined chamfers and show light evidence of being previously polished, with minimal signs of use present. The fixed stainless steel “Units Per Hour” bezel is also in excellent condition, with minimal loss to the original black enamel with no notable wear present. The case retains its original Rolex trip-lock crown and screw-down pushers. The case back retains all of its factory markings in crisp condition. The original Tudor 78360 Oyster bracelet with correct 589 end pieces retains 11 links that show nominal stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial with silver sub-dials is in virtually perfect vintage condition, showing no damage, and the only element of age is a subtle, yet even darkening of the sub-dials. The tritium lume plots have taken on a lovely cream patina and display no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly with no degradation present under UV light inspection.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time, backed by our 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.