This Tudor Oyster Perpetual Ranger II (sometimes also known as the "Prince Oyster Perpetual Ranger II," model 9111/0) is a representative of the sporty style of the 1970s. As a vintage automatic watch, it left a unique mark on the watchmaking world of its time with its robust stainless steel cushion-shaped case and integrated bracelet.
The watch has a diameter of 38mm, which was quite bold by the standards of the time. It is approximately 10mm thick, with a stainless steel case and screw-down crown, and is covered with a durable acrylic crystal. This particular version is a rare black dial model, featuring a quick-adjustable date window at 3 o'clock. The hour markers are available in either baton or Arabic numeral styles. Early models were equipped with automatic movements (such as the 2784, based on ETA), featuring a central seconds hand and 25 jewels, coated with tritium-based luminescent material, exuding a subtle yet practical spirit.
The bracelet is a one-piece stainless steel Oyster design with a folding clasp, a robust yet streamlined structure. This watch, produced between approximately 1970 and 1979, is water-resistant to 200 meters, showcasing Tudor's pursuit of performance in sports watches at the time.
At first glance, the Ranger II might be mistaken for a sibling of the Rolex Oysterquartz, but its design language is actually more avant-garde. Especially noteworthy are its unique recessed dial edge and bezel treatment, almost comparable only to the Rolex Oysterquartz's predecessors—Ref. 1530 and 1630—yet appearing even earlier, making it intriguing.
I first saw this watch more than 30 years ago and I couldn't appreciate its design then. After several decades, this design actually grows on me and I have decided to get one.
