Tudor Re-releases the Fan-Favourite "Big Block" at Only Watch 2023

Tudor has created the Prince Chronograph One for the charity auction "Only Watch 2023." This unique piece is a reproduction of the company's first automatic chronograph, known as the "Big Block," from 1976. It is equipped with a prototype movement by Kenissi.

Classic exterior with the latest prototype movement

　Only Watch is a charity auction of wristwatches. With the event approaching in November, various brands have been announcing unique pieces for the auction. Tudor will be offering a reproduction of its first automatic chronograph, known as the "Big Block," which was released in 1976, for Only Watch 2023.

　The name "Big Block" comes from the thicker case shape that houses the automatic chronograph movement. Known affectionately as "Kamaboko" (kamaboko), it enjoys enduring popularity among Japanese fans, and this distinctive case shape has been faithfully retained in this reissue model, named "Prince Chronograph One."

　The case is made of 18K yellow gold, and the outer bezel with a tachymeter and the dial are black, creating a powerful color scheme.

　The three-dial vertical layout is what strongly evokes the Tudor feel of the 1970s. At the time, the Valjoux Caliber 7750 was used, but current Tudor models use a two-dial horizontal layout with the Heritage Chrono using the Caliber 2892A2 with an additional module, and the Black Bay Chrono uses a two-dial horizontal layout based on the Breitling Caliber 01, so looking at this watch again gives it a fresh impression.

　The reason for the three-row layout is that the movement used in this model, Cal. MT59XX, is a newly manufactured automatic chronograph movement by Kenissi. The "XX" at the end of the model number indicates that it is a prototype.

　It has a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, and features a double-supported balance cock and silicon balance spring to ensure stable operation, and a column wheel is used to control the chronograph.

　Since this is a unique piece exclusively for the Only Watch series, it will be difficult to come across one. However, Tudor's respect for past masterpieces and insatiable curiosity, which they have demonstrated through this piece, are also inherited in commercially available products. I look forward to the day when the Caliber MT59XX is given an official model number and sees the light of day.