Tudor HYDRONAUT II Chronograph
Rolex, the leading Swiss mechanical watch exporter, is also the owner of another watch company, Tudor. In the past, Tudor has not received a lot of media attention. However, in the last couple of years new products and a big advertising push has created much more visibility for the brand. They are positioned below Rolex price points and they definitely lean more towards sporty than dress. The Tudor HYDRONAUT II, introduced at Baselworld 2009, is one of their sportiest models yet.
The HYDRONAUT II comes in a 41 mm steel case, similar to the size you would see on a Rolex. Although, the overall the design does not resemble a Rolex. For one, the lugs are much bigger, than say a Daytona. But that is the point. They are basically using their reputation and massive marketing power to target a different demographic. A more sporty consumer. In that regard, they appear to be doing a good job.
This watch features a self-winding mechanical chronograph movement. Plus it features a good waterproof rating of 200 meters. Not a pro diver, but still extremely sporty.
The case is fully polished and has a black, red and white unidirectional bezel. The dial is black with silver, red and white accents. Subdials at 3 and 6 o'clock display chronograph minutes and hours. The subdial at 9 o'clock displays small seconds (the central hand displays chronograph seconds). The crown at 10 o'clock corrects the date, which is displayed at 4 o'clock. Timekeeping is corrected with the crown at 3 o'clock. At 2 and 4 o'clock are the chronograph start, stop and reset pushers. The pushers and crowns all screw-down for water-resistance. The crystal is sapphire. The strap is black rubber with a folding Tudor clasp.
Estimated retail is $3,500.
