The Hydronaut was meant to be a deliberate departure from the Submariner aesthetic that had defined the sister brand's identity for decades. Since its conception in the late 1990s, the Hydronaut has a contemporary design language, introducing unique case lines while retaining robust, utilitarian principles. The 35mm mid-size case, however, is its most defining attribute, offering a balanced and exceptionally wearable tool watch often lost in modern watch offerings.
Conceived in 1926 by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf, Tudor’s original mission was to offer the dependability of a Rolex at a more accessible price point, initially utilizing robust third-party movements within Rolex-supplied Oyster cases. The brand forged its own distinct identity through military adoption, most notably by the French Marine Nationale.
The modern era, heralded by the successful Black Bay collection, saw Tudor masterfully reinterpret this rich heritage for a modern audience. Their revival is strengthened by a strategic shift to produce calibres in-house, solidifying Tudor’s transition into a fully integrated watchmaker.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2005 Contents: Full-set Genre: Neo-Vintage Dive Watch
Size: 35mm Thickness: approx. 9.5mm Lug Width: approx. 18mm
Case: Steel, Oyster-style case, mirrored and brushed finishes, light visible wear Bezel: Steel, unidirectional dive bezel insert, light wear Dial: Brown-black carbon fiber texture, with applied luminous hour markers Hands: Sword-style hands, lumed
Crown: Steel, screw-down, signed crown, light wear Crystal: Sapphire, with a cyclops lens, light wear Bracelet: Stainless Steel, three-link Oyster-style bracelet, light visible wear Caseback: Solid stainless steel, screw-down, light wear Movement: Automatic Caliber: ETA 2824 base caliber