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TUDOR was created by Hans Wilsdorf in 1926 with the vision of offering timepieces at a more accessible price point than it's sister company, Rolex, whilst still sharing Rolex's commitment to precision and durability. In the world of horology, TUDOR watches have earned a distinguished reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design. What sets TUDOR apart, however, is its rich history intertwined with royal associations as well as their link to the military. At Deacons Jewellers we have stocked Tudor watches since 1956 (almost the entirety of Queen Elizabeth II's reign), making us the longest standing Tudor stockist in the UK. In this article, we delve into the desirable attraction of TUDOR watches that have made them a coveted choice for enthusiasts around the world.
The history behind the name TUDOR
The name TUDOR not only carries a rich historical allure but also represents a timeless commitment to affordable luxury, a legacy that continues to thrive in the world of watchmaking. Rolex creator Hans Wilsdorf began his watchmaking career in London and his love of England and TUDOR history led him to choose the royally inspired name. The connection between the TUDOR period and the TUDOR Watch Company is more than just a shared name, it is both symbolic and historical. The TUDOR Watch Company draws inspiration from the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the TUDOR dynasty that ruled England from 1485 to 1603.
The Tudor Rose
Earlier versions of the brand’s logo featured the Tudor heraldic rose inscribed with a shield. In 1947 the shield gradually disappeared only to return as the brand’s main logo in the 1960’s. The Tudor Rose is an emblem that combines the white rose of the House of York and the red rose of the House of Lancaster. This represents the union of these two rival houses that marked the end of the War of the Roses and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty. The Tudor Rose, incorporated into many of TUDOR’s timepieces, pays homage to this historical legacy, signifying a blend of tradition and modernity that characterises the brand's pieces.
TUDOR watches and the Armed Forces
A pivotal era for TUDOR watches unfolded in the 1950s and 1960s, as they adorned the wrists of the esteemed members of the British Royal Navy. These watches were given to the divers in the Royal Navy with the watches tailored to the needs of the divers. The connection between TUDOR and the military was no coincidence, strategically showcasing the watches' precision, quality, and unyielding durability, mirroring the virtues shown by servicemen and women.
"The Shield that protects the Crown"
As well as being used by the British Royal Navy, TUDOR watches are also worn by the French Royal Navy and The Royalty and Specialist Protection Unit (RaSP). The Royalty and Specialist Protection Unit stands as the guardian of the British Royal Family and government officials. They are enlisted to safeguard not only members of the Royal Family, but also Ministerial VIPs, including the Prime Minister, as well as foreign dignitaries and heads of state visiting the United Kingdom. In addition to their protective duties, the RaSP is entrusted with securing London Palaces, Windsor Castle, and various other royal residences. Their reputation precedes them as one of the most prestigious and specialist police units in the United Kingdom. Roughly 75 members of the Royalty and Specialist Protection Unit were privileged to receive a specially commissioned TUDOR Black Bay watch. Each watch is adorned with the RaSP unit's emblem etched both on the dial and the case back, paying homage to their unofficial motto, "The Shield that protects the Crown". In recent times another special edition TUDOR model was given the RaSP. The Platinum Jubilee Royalty & Specialist Protection model is a limited piece, with just 300 made, featuring the RaSP emblem alongside the symbol of Elizabeth Regina with her crown, commemorating a profound connection to the British monarchy.
Which TUDOR watches have Royal connections?
There are lots of TUDOR watch models with fascinating royal connections, each with a unique story and heritage. Learn more about some of these watches:
TUDOR Royal
In the 1950s, TUDOR coined the name "Royal" to accentuate the exceptional quality of its timepieces. This legacy has paved the way for the TUDOR Royal collection, with a range of self-winding sport-chic watches that display luxury, quality, and affordability. The "Royal" title signifies that these watches offer a touch of luxury and craftsmanship to timepieces, all while maintaining an approachable price point compared to other high-end luxury brands.
TUDOR Black Bay
The limited-edition TUDOR Black Bay, with its solid case back, carries a commemorative inscription reading "ROYALTY & SPECIALIST PROTECTION," accompanied by a unique individual serial number among the 75 issued. These rare, custom TUDOR watches for the RaSP are a sight to behold, treasured not only for their craftsmanship but also for the stories they tell, each one uniquely significant.
TUDOR Prince
The TUDOR Prince is one of many lines of watches produced by the Swiss watchmaker brand. The name "Prince" is used to add even more esteem to the collection, with its name aligning itself with royalty. The TUDOR Prince collection also includes a variety of different models with various features and designs, catering to a wide range of watch enthusiasts and collectors.
TUDOR Submariner
The now discontinued TUDOR Submariners were crafted to endure the harsh conditions of underwater missions. Essential to Navy personnel, these robust timepieces combined unwavering accuracy with a design marked by a large crown, legible dials, and a distinctive snowflake-shaped hour hand. These remarkable timepieces further displays TUDOR’s royal connections.
TUDOR Watches at Deacons Jewellers
In the world of horology, TUDOR stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the regal, and its watches continue to grace the wrists of those who appreciate the blend of elegance and practicality that royalty often demands. TUDOR watches, with their heritage in crafting timepieces for military use, especially by the British and French Navies, have a unique and enduring connection to royalty. As the brand continues to evolve and innovate, it maintains its commitment to quality and precision, making it a favourite among watch enthusiasts and modern-day royalty alike. The royal connections of TUDOR watches are not only a testament to the brand's enduring legacy but also to the allure of timepieces that blend regal history with timeless quality.
At Deacons Jewellers, we have a wide range of TUDOR watches with collections including Black Bay, Pelagos, Ranger, Royal, and more. Feel free to visit our Swindon showroom to explore the collection in person or enquire to find out more.
FAQs
What is TUDOR, and how is it related to the Royal family?
TUDOR is a Swiss watchmaking company founded in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf, who also established Rolex. TUDOR watches have had a historical connection to the British royal family, as they were initially created as a more affordable alternative to Rolex timepieces, while maintaining the same high-quality standards. TUDOR's first official connection to the royal family was through the British Royal Navy, which adopted TUDOR watches in the mid-20th century.
Are there any specific TUDOR watch models associated with the Royal family?
One of the most well-known TUDOR watch models associated with the royal family is the TUDOR Submariner, also known as the "Snowflake." The British Royal Navy issued these watches to their divers during the 1960s. Additionally, TUDOR's Heritage Black Bay collection is often recognized for its vintage-inspired design, reminiscent of historical TUDOR watches used by the military.
Can I purchase a TUDOR watch that replicates those worn by the Royal Navy?
TUDOR offers a wide range of timepieces, including modern interpretations of the watches that were once issued to the Royal Navy. The Black Bay collection, for example, pays homage to these historic designs while incorporating modern engineering and materials. You can find TUDOR watches that capture the spirit of the brand's military heritage.
Are TUDOR watches exclusively for collectors and history enthusiasts?
While TUDOR has a rich historical connection, its watches are not limited to collectors or history enthusiasts. TUDOR's timeless designs, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to performance make their watches suitable for anyone who appreciates precision timekeeping and classic aesthetics.
Can I expect a TUDOR watch to retain its value as a long-term investment?
TUDOR watches have a history of maintaining or appreciating in value, especially vintage models. However, like any investment, it depends on various factors, including the specific model and its condition. TUDOR's ties to the Royal Navy and its enduring popularity suggest that owning a TUDOR watch can be a valuable long-term investment.
