TUDOR | PRINCE CHRONOGRAPH ONE
For Only Watch 2023, TUDOR is celebrating a classic chronograph from the ‘70s in a charming, modern way. For the first time, a brand-new prototype Manufacture Chronograph Calibre, fully developed from the ground up by TUDOR, is being presented in a unique 18 ct solid yellow gold interpretation of a TUDOR classic, the “Big Block” Chronograph.
TUDOR watches are all about value, reliability, and robustness, which often means watches in materials such as stainless steel or titanium. For Only Watch, however, TUDOR dared to break the rules with an entirely new 18 ct yellow gold case that heralds the return of the legendary “Big Block” Chronograph, the first TUDOR automatic chronograph, released in 1976. The unique Prince Chronograph One continues this spirit with another incredible first; a brand-new Manufacture Chronograph Calibre entirely developed by TUDOR. The prototype of this Calibre, movement “Number 0” in the development process, is found inside the TUDOR Prince Chronograph One. The new Calibre, MT59XX, features column-wheel construction and meets all TUDOR Manufacture Calibre performance standards.
A WATCH OF MANY FIRSTS
Back in 1976, TUDOR introduced its first automatic chronograph. The addition of a self-winding rotor to a chronograph movement typically adds thickness and so TUDOR engineered a thicker middle case to accommodate this additional depth. This led to collectors dubbing the new automatic chronograph the “Big Block” in reference to its blocky case. It would stay in the catalogue for nearly two decades before being discontinued in the early ‘90s. Its long production run, numerous variations, and distinct aesthetic have earned the watch a sterling reputation among TUDOR collectors.
The Prince Chronograph One is conceptualized as a celebratory reincarnation of the vintage Big Block Chronograph, and yet it is thoroughly forward-looking in its execution and represents the best of TUDOR’s core values. To start with, the MT59XX inside the watch is the prototype of the movement TUDOR developed to pave the way for TUDOR’s modern chronograph Calibre. When the “Big Block” Chronograph was produced, the Calibre was sourced from third parties with the value proposition for the end user in mind. Now, TUDOR is capable of producing cutting-edge Calibres on its own, and the Prince Chronograph One is a fitting platform to showcase such an important moment in TUDOR’s history.
#BornToDare
TUDOR Watch Official Website | Swiss Luxury Watches since 1926
For more visuals click here
Contact us for more information:
Marie Hocepied
Manon Mercier