Iconic timepieces generally have a story behind them and for watch geeks, there’s nothing more satisfying than wearing a piece laden with history. Just think about some of your favourites – OMEGA has the Speedmaster, the first watch worn on the moon, Seiko has the ‘Turtle’ Prospex, a reimagining of the brand’s early dive endeavours and Rolex has the Explorer 1, a watch created in honour of the first successful ascent of Everest. The appeal for watch fans is obvious. These pioneering pieces have played a role in some of history’s most exciting moments, and those that excelled in tough environments have earned extra kudos. Now, we can add another finely-tuned voyager to the mix, the Tudor Ranger.
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Image: Tudor
The Swiss manufacturer’s field-tested tool watch, the Tudor Ranger may have gone missing for a couple of years, but we’re pleased to report it’s back. The new model marks the 70th anniversary of the British North Greenland Expedition and reworks the ’60s Ranger design. We can’t resist the marriage of cutting-edge watchmaking technology and charming vintage aesthetics. But to really appreciate this beauty, you need to know about its history.
The Ranger was an innovative tool watch designed with knowledge gained from the two-year arctic expedition. The expedition watch was Tudor’s first waterproof automatic model and the original Ranger was an improvement on this. The 2022 release has the same pared-down style. It’s functional and highly legible and includes wonderful touches from the established design.
Image: Tudor
This simple three-handed watch comes in a mid-sized 39mm case. It is satin-brushed to give a no-frills matte finish and the grained matte black dial continues the understated look. The dial features large bold numerals that are painted with beige retro lume and text is kept to a minimum. There’s no date window to interrupt the symmetry. It looks and feels like a robust tool, with the only flair being a touch of burgundy on the second hand (and of course, the crown signed with the Tudor rose). The hands are very distinctive and set the watch apart from competitors like Rolex’s Explorer 1 and Tudor’s own Black Bay 36.
Image: Tudor
The Tudor Ranger doesn’t only look like a rugged and militaristic tool watch. Under the hood, it has a Swiss-made Calibre MT5402 automatic movement. This is a COSC-certified chronometer and is weekend proof. Yes, you can leave this watch off for up to 70 hours and it’ll keep ticking.
Undoubtedly, the Tudor Ranger is going to be a hit with fans. It’s robust, practical and very affordable. And it does what great watches should, it reminds us of the pioneers who pushed themselves and their equipment to the limits.
Image: Tudor
Tudor Ranger – 79950
Diameter: 39mm
Height: 12mm
Straps: Stainless Steel Bracelet, Fabric or Natural Rubber
Case: Stainless Steel
Movement: Swiss-Made Caliber MT5402 Automatic
Glass: Domed Sapphire Crystal
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD$3,815-$4,255
Image: Tudor
Image: Tudor
Image: Tudor
Image: Tudor
