The TUDOR Ranger originated in the 1960s and was dedicated to the spirit of adventure and exploration. Now the Geneva-based company is reviving the historic model. The robust timepiece features a satin-finished stainless steel case and historical design elements. Inside, however, is a modern movement that exceeds the chonometer requirements. The watch comes with a choice of a steel bracelet with quick adjustment system, a rubber strap with leather or a textile strap.
In 1952, a group of British explorers set off on a two-year expedition towards Greenland. At that time, TUDOR asked the adventurers to test 30 watches under the extreme conditions in the north. As a result, founder Hans Wilsdorf registered the name “Ranger” to emphasise the resilience of the in-house watches. In the 1960s, the Ranger model became established. It was a true tool watch and correspondingly robust, practical and affordable. During this time, the typical aesthetic of the model with luminous Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock also established itself.
The TUDOR Ranger comes in a 39 mm case made of 316L stainless steel. In the spirit of a functional watch, it is completely satin-finished. Only some edges and the side of the bezel are polished, which emphasises the lines of the case. On the side is the screw-down crown with the TUDOR rose in relief. The front has a domed sapphire crystal, while the back features a solid case back. To be ready for any adventure, the watch offers water resistance to 100 metres.
The dial is based on the model from the 1960s. For the sake of legibility, a grained, matt black dial is in place. It also has printed indices and numerals. The arrow hour hand, together with the sword-shaped minute hand, is also typical for the model. The angular second hand is also based on the original model, but now has a red tip. Meanwhile, the hands as well as the indices and numerals appear beige and have Super-LumiNova coating. Last but not least, there is the TUDOR shield at 12 o’clock and the model lettering “Ranger” further down.
The TUDOR Ranger integrates the in-house calibre MT5402. It offers automatic winding and a power autonomy of 70 hours. The variable-inertia balance beats away at a frequency of 4 hertz and is attached to a bridge. Meanwhile, the silicon spring provides protection against magnetic fields. Last but not least, the watch carries the chronometer certificate. However, TUDOR promises a maximum daily deviation of -2 to +4 seconds, which even exceeds the COSC requirements.
The reference 79950 is available on three different straps. First, there is a three-link stainless steel bracelet. This has a satin finish and features the “T-fit” clasp with quick adjustment system. There is also a black strap made of rubber and black leather with beige-coloured stitching. This comes with a folding clasp. Finally, TUDOR shows an olive green textile strap with two red and one beige stripes. The watch is not limited. The price is 2,840 euros for the steel bracelet and 2,550 euros for the rubber or textile strap.
