Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an authentic mid-century Tudor dress watch housed in a solid 9-carat gold cushion-shaped case crafted by the renowned British casemaker Dennison. It features a stunning cream dial with sub-seconds, blued steel hands, and Tudor's early small shield/rose transition era logo, powered by a 17-jewel manual-wind Tudor movement.
Story
Presented in May 1951 to C.R. Watson for 40 years of service, this watch bridged Rolex engineering and British gold casemaking to skirt high postwar UK import tariffs.
Maker / Origin
Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf created Montres TUDOR SA in 1926 to offer the dependability and waterproof heritage of Rolex at a more accessible price point. In the mid-20th century, Tudor partnered with premier domestic case makers like Dennison in Birmingham to encase Swiss movements in solid British gold for the UK market.
Condition & Value
The case shows minor surface scratches consistent with age and clear British hallmarks. The dial displays gentle age speckling and patina without signs of harsh refinishing; movement appears clean. Original presentation engraving on the caseback is clear. The aged strap shows wear.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.