Tudor 'Big Block' Chronograph

Why We Love It When it comes to classifying a 'neo-vintage' wristwatch, we look for the following criteria: - Classic case proportions - Mechanical Movement - Tritium Luminous Material - Acrylic Crystal - Timeless Design This Tudor 'Big Block' Reference 79170 checks all of those boxes with a full size 39mm Oyster Case design, 'bombproof' Valjoux 7750 automatic winding chronograph movement, richly patinated indices and handset, magnified acrylic crystal, and a triple-register matte 'reverse panda' dial. Gaining popularity in recent years in part due to the success of Tudor's new Heritage Chrono line, the Big Block is not only their predecessor, but also preceded its big brother - the Rolex Daytona - in having an automatic winding chronograph mechanism. This particular example is in excellent condition throughout with evenly faded luminous material and a strong case - it even includes a Tudor-signed bracelet. Quality examples such as this one are being snapped up quicker than ever, so don't wait - the time is now to scoop up neo-vintage masterpieces like this one! The Story Though Tudor has been, from its inception, the gateway brand to horological behemoth Rolex, it's made strides in distinguishing itself. Foremost is aesthetics, with Tudor models with a more sporty, athletic flavor than their ofttimes staid Rolex counterparts. And despite the rugged exterior, Tudor is no slouch in the technical department, achieving horological distinctions sometimes decades ahead of their parent company.  In the Rolex/Tudor stable, the Daytona commands a great deal of respect, remaining one of the most well-known and sought-after Rolex lines. But while Rolex was still filling their watches with hand-cranked units well into the 1980s (and didn't conceive of an in-house chronograph movement until 2000), Tudor was rolling out chronographs driven by automatic Valjoux drivetrains - a fact that is all too often overlooked when the conversation veers toward collectible vintage chronographs.  The 'Big Block', which was released in 1974, marked an impressive leap for Tudor, largely due to the introduction of the Valjoux 7750 Automatic movement. In addition to bringing the perk of self-winding technology to Tudor's popular line, the new drivetrain included an hour register and a quick-set date, features that made the watch more functional and more enjoyable to wear.