1990 Tudor Big Block Chronograph (Ref. 79170) Silver Dial

The Tudor "Big Block" chronographs were introduced in 1976 and replaced the Montecarlo series of chronographs that were originally released in 1970. Both the Tudor Montecarlo, along with Rolex's Daytona, were manual wind chronographs whereas the "Big Blocks" were outfitted with an automatic movement. This was a big advancement for Tudor as it wasn't until 1988 that Rolex offered an automatic version of the famous chronograph via the zenith-based Rolex movements. Also, unlike the Rolex Daytona, Tudor chronographs including the Montecarlo featured date complications. The "Big Block" nickname comes as a result of the mid-case size, which is thicker and heavier than the big brother Rolex Daytona references which accommodated the automatic chronograph caliber Valjoux 7750 which also features a quickset date.

The silver dial chronographs, whether it be the Big Block or Daytona, have always been a fan favorite among collectors. The black sub-dials create an awesome contrast with the silver sunburst dial that makes for the eye-catching design collectors love.

Stock #		TBBC7917090
Brand		Tudor
Style		Big Block Chronograph
Model		79170
Serial		.30XXXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		"Panda" Silver W/ Black Sub-Dials
Millimeters		40
Bracelet		Tudor 78360 Oyster W/ 589 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The thick case has been very lightly polished in the past and retains symmetrical lugs that display minimal signs of use. The original bi-directional rotating bezel has aged to a charming navy blue coloration and shows very light signs of use. The case retains its original screw-down pushers and Rolex signed trip-lock crown. The original Tudor 78360 Oyster bracelet with 589 end pieces retains 12 links that exhibit minor stretch.

DIAL & HANDS

The silver sunburst dial with black sub-dials is in excellent original condition, showing no signs of age or damage. The tritium lume plots remain bright white in coloration, under U.V. light inspection all of the lume plots are intact, however, the 5, 6, 7, and 8 o'clock markers feature degradation. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light.