Tudor Submariner 7924 ARA Vintage Guide
Vintage

Tudor Submariner 7924 ARA Vintage Guide

By MattS · May 9, 2025 · 34 replies
MattS
WPS member · Rolex forum
34 replies4266 views5 photos
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MattS, a respected collector, shares his acquisition of a Tudor Submariner 7924 'Big Crown' issued to the Armada della Republica Argentina (ARA). This particular reference, especially with military provenance and a tropical dial, represents a significant milestone in vintage diver collecting. His detailed post not only showcases a rare timepiece but also contributes new serial number data to the limited existing documentation, enriching the collective knowledge of this elusive reference.

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Hi all,

I am happy to share the latest arrival in my diver collection, this is a bit of end game as I landed a true grail.  I wanted to add a Big Crown to my collection and wanted a Tudor 7924.  To make it even more difficult I dreamed of an issued watch and the ultimate grail would be with a tropical dial. So this spring was very fruitful as I managed to land the ultimate grail, a Tudor 7924 aka Big Crown, issued to the Armada della Republica Argentina (ARA) from 1958 fully original with Red triangle insert, lollipop second hand, Rivet stretch bracelet and a stunning tropical dial.
This is a very rare bird.  Little documentation exists and I wanted to post here to give tribute to Nicolas who has documented this piece over the years.  In a post I read that Nico saw a range 61188-61196.  I can enlarge this range slightly as mine has the issued number 61183.
Enjoy the pictures:

Full face static:




Case Back:




Dial close ups:






And to finish a wristshot:



Matt

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

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AP
aperna
May 9, 2025
Well, done, congratulations exclamation point a beautiful piece of history

LA
Larrykelley11
May 9, 2025
Congratulations Matt, outstanding acquisition!

CH
Champthekid
May 9, 2025
What a treasure that is!

Congratulations on obtaining it.

KU
KURT_DAVID
May 9, 2025
VERY, VERY NICE.

Stunning timepiece.

AL
AlexSunrise
May 9, 2025
What a find, Matt! Huge congrats!

BI
Bill
May 9, 2025
It has been a while welcome back. You have a historic watch in your 7924.

I am sure Nicolas will chime in with all the details that make this an amazing catch to add to your amazing collection. Congratulations. My old 7924

Available on the marketplace

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