Tudor Oysterdate Big Block Chronograph
Founded in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf in Geneva, Tudor has a rich and often overlooked history of horological firsts. The Oysterdate Big Block chronograph holds a uniquely important place in that story — introduced in the mid-1970s, it was the very first automatic chronograph ever produced within the Rolex family, predating the legendary Rolex Daytona ref. 16520 by a full decade. Reference 79180 represents the final and most refined generation of this pioneering line, and examples with the rare porcelain white dial are among the most sought-after by serious collectors.
The Tudor Oysterdate Big Block, reference 79180, is a characterful 40 mm stainless steel automatic chronograph with a beautifully aged white porcelain-style dial featuring applied hour markers, three contrasting chronograph subdials and a date display at 3 o'clock — a dial that develops a subtle warmth over time that no modern watch can replicate. The stainless steel tachymeter bezel and signature "OysterDate" text below the Tudor logo give this watch a strong and purposeful visual identity. The notably thick case profile that earned this reference its "Big Block" nickname houses the celebrated Valjoux Calibre 7750 automatic movement, running at 28,800 vph with a power reserve of approximately 42 hours — a robust and service-friendly workhorse. An acrylic crystal protects the dial, authentic to the period. The watch is fitted on the correct Tudor Oyster bracelet with solid links and period-correct endlinks.
This Oysterdate Big Block is in very good condition and comes withy the Tudor box and the Q-Watches GoldCard. Real collectors item!
Product details
Brand: Tudor
Model: Oysterdate Big Block Chronograph
Reference: 79180
Dimensions: 40mm
Age: Approx. 1996
Condition: Very good condition
Movement: ETA/VJ 7750
Accessories: Tudor Box , QW GoldCard
Extra’s: 3 months warranty