Tudor 79280 Dial Change

[Ryan]

Been interested in picking up a 79280 for a while, but as most people know, there are essentially two versions...the Tiger and the non-Tiger. Pricing on the watches tends to be reflective of a higher price for the non-Tiger ($3k-$4k) vs the Tiger ($2-$3k).

So the question. Is it possible to purchase a Tiger version, send it to Rolex for service, and request a dial change to a non-Tiger? I know you can change dials with the Rolex models, seems logical you could do it with the Tudors. I don't care about the "frankenwatch" scenario...this is my watch. Secondly, the lume would be exhausted on any of the old dials, I would want a newer dial with luminova (if it exists). I'm also aware of the potential cost differential...that is, buying a Tiger, paying for a new dial, may actually work out to the cost of a non-Tiger. I get it, but even some of the non-Tiger models, I may want to change the dial.

Is a dial change possible?

[Etschell]

I wouldn't do it even if you can. A big block is more and you should keep it all original.

[Ryan]

Yes, a big block modification would be a mistake...but that's not what I'm asking.

[fskywalker]

Hi Ryan, I think RSC might switch dials for you to other models available at the same time yours was released, so technically the swap to a non tiger dial is possible. I have not seen any dials for sale lately on the forums, so most likely RSC is your only choice.

[Dan Pierce]

No idea if Rolex would change a dial or not, doubt it but I guess it's possible. The lume on a new(er) dial would be so minimal it wouldn't be worth it, IMO. Also, the presently maligned Tiger dials could be the future must have. How long in the future, if at all makes that prediction unknown for now.
I purchased a vintage silver panda dial for my 79270P and my watchmaker with Rolex parts account was able to source the new handset. Aftermarket dials do come up for sale, on occasion, but you have to be on your toes to find one in great condition.
dP

[fskywalker]

There are still some pre-tiger dial Tudors which glow in the dark, so not necessarly need a new dial to get that. Mine does glow 😊






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[Dan Pierce]

Originally Posted by fskywalker

There are still some pre-tiger dial Tudors which glow in the dark, so not necessarly need a new dial to get that. Mine does glow 😊






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Your's, with the hour number shadowing, is the last variation of the Tudor dials for these chronographs which would make it a post Tiger.
dP

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by Dan Pierce

Your's, with the hour number shadowing, is the last variation of the Tudor dials for these chronographs which would make it a post Tiger.

dP

Thanks for the information Dan! Didn't knew there were post Tiger 79260 watches. That means mine is a late production chronograph watch I guess? SN on mine is H35499X

Regards,

Francisco


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[Dan Pierce]

Originally Posted by fskywalker

Thanks for the information Dan! Didn't knew there were post Tiger 79260 watches. That means mine is a late production chronograph watch I guess? SN on mine is H35499X

Regards,

Francisco


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There were so many variations over the years when it came to dials, Tudor vs Rolex attributes, etc. Also, like Rolex, Tudor had a stock of cases stamped with serial #'s that were not used sequentially so dating their production is just guess work at best.
dP

[fskywalker]

Originally Posted by Dan Pierce

There were so many variations over the years when it came to dials, Tudor vs Rolex attributes, etc. Also, like Rolex, Tudor had a stock of cases stamped with serial #'s that were not used sequentially so dating their production is just guess work at best.

dP

Good point. Love the black dial and lack of Tiger labeling, plus the fact it still glows! 😄


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