THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: TUDOR
MODEL: 7016/0
YEAR: 1967
BOX/PAPERS: YES/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Tudor 7016 was a reference that has huge variations, five different dials are seen on the 7016, the example here being the third and rarest iteration, the Shield logo with circular plots. The 7016 was the first reference to utilise Tudors new Shield emblem, replacing the Rose that adorned its older sibling, the 7928. Tudor also upgraded the workhorse for this reference and began an everlasting partnership with ETA. 

Most people think the 7016 was the first Snowflake reference, and they would be correct, but what many don't realise is it started life in a completely different guise. 

This dial configuration with the lollipop hand was estimated to be in production for around 18 months, the early serials bear the reference 7528 which ended up being dropped for the 7016 reference moving forward but Rolex had already made a batch of casebacks, so used them anyway. It's difficult to imagine that happening now.

The dial presents a rich pumpkin patina that's bound to be a conversation starter. Paired with a MK3 bezel that has stood the test of time and a darkly lustrous pearl, the ensemble is captivating. Though its case has seen some polishing, it stands robust, free of spring bar protrusions. And while the hands have been retouched – a nod to the common tritium cracking in early T Swiss T variants – their appeal remains.

The bracelet is a slightly later 9315 with 380b end links, the clasp is from 1996. 

The mystique around this piece? Despite its rarity, it's priced below the more prevalent Snowflake – perhaps due to it still being a best-kept secret among horology buffs. But a word to the wise: keep a keen eye on this one; its star is set to rise in the watch world.