Tudor Submariner Ref. 9411/0 - Blue 'Snowflake' LNOS w/ Box & Papers

The Submariner, namely those produced by Rolex, has long been considered the cream of the crop when it comes to watch collecting as a whole. Possibly the most iconic watch ever produced, the Submariner has long standing utilitarian roots that span decades, and everyone who’s anyone has been spotted wearing one. However, if you look deeper into the Submariner line, you may find a less known but just as incredible model manufactured by Tudor. These pieces are not only more unique and uncommon than the traditional Submariner, but offer a more fun, playful design — particularly with the blue-dialed variants with a pop of red in the 'Roulette' date wheel like the example that we have here. This example, a Ref. 9411/0, dates to circa 1978 and is known as a 'Snowflake' for it's distinctive hands and indices. In recent years, these have developed a cult following with collectors and have become one of the more sought after and collectible vintage Tudor Submariner References. This particular example comes to us in nothing short of outstanding, like-new-old-stock condition complete with its factory caseback sticker. The Oyster case, bezel and Oyster bracelet all show only faint handling wear and retain correct factory finishing throughout. The blue dial within retains its attractive blue color across the matte surface, with the characteristic square Tritium plots showing an attractive and uniform patina. The equally characteristic 'snowflake' handset matches the dial perfectly. Last but not least, the blue bezel insert has developed a gentle fade with a matching aged Tritium pip, both of which suit this piece beautifully. Furthermore, accompanying this piece is its inner and outer boxes, booklets, and punched papers dated 1978. These days, Tudors most popular line, the Black Bay, drawn largely from pieces like the one that we have here, and for good reason. As the expression goes, you can’t know where you’re going until you know where you’re from. This is an exceptional example of a vintage diver that has seen steady grown in popularity, with no signs of stopping.... ...And Rolex sure never made a steel Submariner with a blue dial!