The Tudor Submariner or "Snowflake" as its affectionately referred to by collectors was introduced in the early to mid 70s with the ref. 9401/0 (no date) and 9411/0 (date). The nickname came from their distinctive squared indices and "Snowflake" like hour/seconds hands. This additional luminous material aided it in being a highly capable tool watch that we now know today has well-documented military use being issued to the French Marine Nationale and other countries' armed forces. Out of all the vintage tool watches the "Snowflake" is one of our absolute favorite choices for its distinctive design and special aura that nice examples can convey. 

This particular black example is a more desirable "no date" variant and remains in excellent vintage condition. The dial is mint and boasts clean tritium plots with highly attractive "buttermilk" patina. The hands have been stabilized but we believe their tritium to be from factory and match the dial nicely. The insert has also taken a deep blue tone in hard light showing a correct pip. The case is also remains very thick with evenly proportioned lugs. The Rolex signed bracelet is tight, retains 12 links, fitting an approximate 7.5 inch wrist. For the discerning collector, this example retains its inner/outer boxes, original warranty papers and original purchase receipt - both from Smart Jewelers in Chicago, dated 5-17-80, showing an original retail price of just $360.00. Any serious "Snowflake" collectors would know this addition of accessories is extremely rare to come by today, especially with such a a strong example. The set also includes a custom aged Phoenix NATO-style strap in Admiralty grey - this strap is a crucial accessory and the one we believe it feels best suited for on wrist. We could not be more thrilled to offer this special example in the shop.

Dial: Absolutely stunning and mint with highly attractive "buttermilk" colored tritium plots. All of the lume is clean. There is also no bubbling in the dial which is common to see in this ref. Bezel insert: Fantastic with a matching cream toned pip. It has taken on a stunning dark blue tone in hard light that we expect will become more evident in years to come. There are some light scuffs but are normal signs consistent with age. Hands: Appear to have been stabilized to prevent cracking in the future but their lume looks to be correct from factory and they match the dial nicely. Case: Retains thick, even lugs with some of their original chamfers still visible. Honest but signs of use. Correct signed crown. Bracelet: Rolex signed with 12 links and very light stretch. Will fit an approximate 7.5 inch wrist. Crystal: Clear. Accessories: Inner and outer boxes, original punched warranty papers, original purchase receipt and custom aged Phoenix NATO-style strap in Adrmiralty grey. The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1980 Reference: 9401/0 Serial: 934XXX Dimensions: 39mm wide, 20mm lug width. Movement: Automatic ETA caliber 2776.