Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Monaco, Dec 12, 2025
LOT 90
TUDOR, SWITZERLAND, REF. 7924, OYSTER PRINCE SUBMARINER TROPICAL BIG CROWN
EUR 20,000 - 40,000
CHF 18,700 - 37,300 / HKD 182,000 - 362,000 / USD 23,200 - 46,400 / JPY 3,630,000 - 7,250,000
An exceptionally rare and early stainless steel diver’s wristwatch with large “big crown” winding crown, tropical brown 4-line dial, calibre 390 movement, and a beautiful faded blue insert
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: |
|
Case: 2-6 |
Very good Slightly oxidized |
Movement: 2* |
Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 2-6-01 |
Very good Slightly oxidized HANDS Original |
Brand Tudor, Switzerland
Model Oyster Prince Submariner tropical big crown
Reference 7924
Year 1958
Case No. 275674
Bracelet leather strap with rolex stainless steel buckle
Diameter 38
Caliber 390, 17 jewels
Signature dial, case and movement
Notes
A wonderfully preserved and original version of the legendary Tudor Submariner reference 7924, introduced in 1958 as the brand’s first model officially waterproof to 200 meters. Sharing much of its DNA with Rolex’s iconic Submariner 6538, the 7924 is affectionately known as the “Big Crown”, featuring the oversized 8 mm Brevet crown and robust 37 mm Oyster case.
This particular watch, bearing serial number 275674, belongs to the very first production batch of 1958. Its four-line dial reading “TUDOR / OYSTER PRINCE / 200m=660ft / SUBMARINER” has aged into a stunning tropical, backcase IV 1958, chocolate tone, with perfectly matched gilt printing and warm patinated luminous markers. The gilt hands have developed a harmonious golden hue, complementing the dial beautifully.
The rotating bezel insert, originally black, now exhibits a subtle faded blue tone, adding remarkable character and depth to the overall appearance.
Powered by the robust automatic calibre 390, Tudor’s adaptation of the Fleurier 350 movement, this example represents the epitome of 1950s dive watch engineering pure, functional, and timelessly elegant.
Beautifully preserved, with crisp case proportions and strong bevels, this early Tudor Submariner embodies the spirit of mid-century tool watches and the shared heritage between Tudor and Rolex.
A truly exceptional and historically significant example of the Tudor Submariner “Big Crown” Ref. 7924, combining rarity, character, and untouched vintage allure—a cornerstone in the evolution of professional diving watches.
This particular watch, bearing serial number 275674, belongs to the very first production batch of 1958. Its four-line dial reading “TUDOR / OYSTER PRINCE / 200m=660ft / SUBMARINER” has aged into a stunning tropical, backcase IV 1958, chocolate tone, with perfectly matched gilt printing and warm patinated luminous markers. The gilt hands have developed a harmonious golden hue, complementing the dial beautifully.
The rotating bezel insert, originally black, now exhibits a subtle faded blue tone, adding remarkable character and depth to the overall appearance.
Powered by the robust automatic calibre 390, Tudor’s adaptation of the Fleurier 350 movement, this example represents the epitome of 1950s dive watch engineering pure, functional, and timelessly elegant.
Beautifully preserved, with crisp case proportions and strong bevels, this early Tudor Submariner embodies the spirit of mid-century tool watches and the shared heritage between Tudor and Rolex.
A truly exceptional and historically significant example of the Tudor Submariner “Big Crown” Ref. 7924, combining rarity, character, and untouched vintage allure—a cornerstone in the evolution of professional diving watches.
Provenance
Beaune collection