Tudor Prince Oysterdate Integrated Bracelet, c. 1974

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

It is no secret that the popularity of the Tudor brand is reaching stratospheric levels as of late. After decades of neglect by collectors, Rolexes' sibling brand has caught on in an epic fashion, due in no small part to the tremendously desirable and popular line of modern Heritage Collection timepieces that has swept the industry over the past few years. That said, it’s the left-of-center models that always stop us in our tracks. The Tudor Black Bay P01 and North Flag are a couple of contemporary examples that stray away from the traditional aesthetic, but the same oddball approach (we mean that in the most endearing way possible) can be traced back to a few vintage models such as the Tudor Iconaut, Monte Carlo and this particular Prince Oysterdate, which features a very 'of the era' integrated bracelet. When the Tudor Oyster Prince was introduced in the mid 1940s, it was meant to be a watch for the everyman. The Oyster Prince certainly demonstrated its reliability, and the sheer variety of models that Tudor released over the years saw that it had a universal appeal. While there is certainly a preference for models from the 1950s and 1960s, the model’s longevity meant that, beyond being a watch for the everyman, there was a Prince for everybody. This Tudor Prince Oysterdate Reference 9121/0 dates to circa 1974 and features a 38mm stainless steel case, elapsed-time bezel that has faded evenly, an acrylic crystal with a date-magnifier, a Rolex signed crown and caseback, and an ETA Cal. 2784 automatic winding movement. The glossy blue tritium dial features a stick handset, applied indices, the Tudor shield logo at 12 o’clock and an even patination throughout. What sets this Tudor apart however, is the 9585 steel integrated H-link bracelet – a rarity within the entire Tudor catalog. Much like the Tudor P01, the integrated bracelet system seen here makes for an entirely unique wearing experience. This integrated Tudor Prince is a deep-cut indeed. Its distinct look and feel, blending sport and refinement, combined with the fact that modern blue Tudors are currently having a moment, will liven up any collection. Don’t miss out.