Did the Tudor Chrono ref. 79260 ever come w/ a polished bezel?

[RTea]

I’ve been in the market for a Tudor “Tiger” era chronograph and found a nice example of one for sale. I pulled the trigger on it but went back and just noticed that it has the ref. 79260 sticker on the case-back but is fitted with the polished tachymeter bezel as opposed to the black aluminum insert. Were there ever any 79260s that had the polished bezel? If the watch was serviced by Tudor/Rolex, would they allow swapping of the dial and/or bezel at time of service?

To my knowledge, the 79260 = black aluminum insert bezel; 79270 = rotating bezel; 79280 = polished engraved steel bezel. It seems like the Tudor chrono went through quite a few variations and changes throughout the 1990’s and I just want to make sure I’m not buying one with a custom mish-mash of parts. Thanks in advance for any help!

[RTea]

Any input would be appreciated. The seller is getting defensive which is raising some red flags but it’s tough to find one in this condition at this price.

[Dan Pierce]

All 7xx60 came with black tacky bezel. All 7xx80 came with metal engraved tacky bezel.
dP

[PanosI]

If the seller is getting defensive move on.
Different answer if he had admitted that he changed the bezel with one from a 79280.

[Watchdaytona]

You are correct, the 79260 has the black bezel, stainless bezel is the 79280, check the papers if it has it and you can check the watch case. Something is off. I don't know why anyone would change the black bezel to the stainless version. The black is more popular.

[sillo]

Originally Posted by RTea

To my knowledge, the 79260 = black aluminum insert bezel; 79270 = rotating bezel; 79280 = polished engraved steel bezel.

This is correct.

[002]

I have heard that the case should be stamped 79280, but the inside of the case back may say 79260. Found this during my search for one.

What does the case have stamped between the lugs? that will answer your question pretty quickly.