Tudor Big Crown Submariner 7924 French Navy Guide
Vintage

Tudor Big Crown Submariner 7924 French Navy Guide

By DrStrong · Aug 12, 2009 · 20 replies
DrStrong
WPS member · Rolex forum
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DrStrong's 2009 post showcases a rare Tudor Big Crown Submariner reference 7924, a model manufactured by Rolex for the French Marine Nationale in the late 1950s. He shares his personal experience of sourcing these vintage military diver's watches and provides a detailed examination of the 7924's unique characteristics and exceptional condition. This article offers valuable insights into the early days of SCUBA diving watches and the specific features that make the 7924 a coveted collector's piece.

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Over the past years, I have been able to source a few French military diver's watches from the late 1950's that were still in the drawer of retired watchmakers: Rolex, Tudor, Blancpain,...

In these early days of SCUBA diving, most of these watches were used in very small batches (I have recently found out that Omega Seamaster 300's had also been used by the French Navy in very limited quantity) and it is usually admitted that less than two hundred 7924’s have ever been manufactured. Most of them have been used for military purpose (there were not many customers for 200m waterproof watches at that time) but did not bear any special military engraving; the French Navy was probably testing different brands to chose the model that they would order in larger amount and the famous M.N. caseback engraving in fact appeared in the 1970’s only.

Among all these military pieces, my favourite model is definitely the Tudor Big Crown, manufactured by Rolex in 1958 and 1959 only and that has been used by the divers of the Marine Nationale under the references 7922 and 7924. This watch is the exact twin brother of the Rolex James Bond ref. 6538 but with a different dial and movement, like all the early Tudors.

Here’s the picture of a French Navy diver in the early 1960’s with a Tudor Big Crown on the wrist:

The example that I have just dug out is especially interesting, because its serial number in the 292,xxx range is generally associated by collectors to the later civilian batch of 7924's; this is the first time that I see one of these watches in a military context. In addition, the inside caseback of this one is stamped with the reference number, whereas most Tudor Big Crowns only have the date code.

The condition of the watch is simply incredible, with a gorgeous gilt glossy dial and a case that shows normal wear for a 50 years old watch but has never been polished: the thick lugs (aka broad shoulders), flat case sides and sharp edges are intact. This Submariner definitely has a lot of character, as the 38mm diameter is just perfect on the wrist and its 15mm thickness and 8mm crown give him a rugged and bullet proof aspect.

That’s how the edges of the 1950’s Rolex cases look like originally, with a big chamfer:

The bezel also has sharp edges and look at that thick font insert:

The 8mm Brevet crown is one of the sexiest feature of the watch, it looks really huge:

The famous rose logo, it brings a lot of charm and character to the gilt dial:

Another detail of the dial, the 6 o’clock index:

As a friend of mine has some records of the watches used by the French Navy, I will try to make some research about this specific one….unfortunately, the chances to have information about these very early watches are very thin...

 

This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2009-08-12 04:23:00 This message has been edited by DrStrong on 2009-08-20 06:50:24

About the Rolex Submariner Ref. 5510

The Submariner reference 5510 is a notable example within the early production of the model line, distinguished by its "Big Crown" design. This reference was produced for a very short period, making it one of the rarer variants. It represents a transitional phase in the Submariner's development, bridging earlier designs with later, more standardized configurations. Its aesthetic aligns with the functional tool watch philosophy prevalent at the time of its introduction.

The case of the reference 5510 is constructed from stainless steel, featuring a diameter characteristic of its era. It houses an automatic movement, specifically the Caliber 1530, which provides reliable timekeeping. The crystal protecting the dial is made of acrylic, a common material for watches of this period, contributing to its period-correct appearance. The water resistance rating was a significant feature for the model at its release.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in the foundational period of the Submariner. Its limited production run and specific design elements, particularly the oversized winding crown, contribute to its desirability. The 5510 is considered a key reference for understanding the evolution of the Submariner series, showcasing the design language and technical specifications that preceded subsequent iterations.

Specifications

Caliber
Cal. 1530
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
38mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
200m
Crystal
Acrylic

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The Discussion
MD
MdV
Aug 12, 2009
What an extraordinary example, Jeff !

Just WOW. Most interesting story about its MN life. Thanks for sharing, best, Mark

DR
DrStrong
Aug 13, 2009
Thanks Mark

I hope to learn more about its history... Cheers Jeff

JO
Jocke - Bad Santa
Aug 12, 2009
How can you show it in public

without shaving the pearl? Great wach you got there my friend. Jocke

JO
joeyza
Aug 12, 2009
Great post and rugged beauty. Thanks for sharing.

DR
DrStrong
Aug 13, 2009
Thanks Joe ! [nt]

No message body

RY
Ryan5446
Aug 14, 2009
great find

and WHAT a condition this watch is in.... fantastic. Truely rare to find one in this condition.

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