1994 Tudor Date-Day ref. 94500

The Rolex Day-Date first appeared in 1956 as the brand’s new flagship watch, and by the end of the following decade, the model’s signature double calendar display was made available in a more affordably priced version from Tudor. While the original Tudor Date+Day that appeared in 1969 featured a 37.5mm case, the size of the model was later reduced to 36mm during the 1970s to bring it more in-line with its Rolex-branded sibling. Although Tudor also created an extra large “Jumbo” edition with a 39mm case that featured a funky Turn-O-Graph style bezel, Tudor primarily produced a 36mm version of the Date+Day that was very similar to the Rolex Day-Date, except for the fact that it was only offered in either stainless steel or two-tone and lacked the signature President style bracelet of its Rolex counterpart.

This particular Tudor Date+Day is a reference 94500 from 1994 that is crafted entirely from stainless steel and in mint condition, complete with an unpolished case and its original caseback sticker still intact. The original white Roman numeral dial features a railroad style minute track, and it is in flawless condition with its tritium lume plots exhibiting no signs of degradation and instead offering a handsome creamy yellow patina that perfectly matches the hands. Although it is crafted from stainless steel, the overall design of the Tudor Date+Day paired with the brand’s version of a Jubilee style bracelet results in a very sleek and refined overall package.

Additionally, despite being in exceptional condition and still even being accompanied by its original box and papers, watches like this Tudor Date+Day ref. 94500 can be picked up for a serious bargain compared to their solid gold Rolex siblings. 

While a vintage Rolex Day-Date in this same level of collector-worthy condition could easily cost in excess of $30,000, this particular Tudor Date+Day can be picked up for less than $4k, which represents an astonishing value considering that you are getting many of the same hallmark Rolex traits and even much of the same look and feel, while still having a watch that manages to feel unique to Tudor. While the Rolex Day-Date is an internationally recognized status symbol that is crafted from solid gold, the Tudor Date+Day is the less precious yet equally functional equivalent that offers the same dual calendar display in a more humble and utilitarian stainless steel package.