THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: TUDOR
MODEL: 7016/0
YEAR: 1971
BOX/PAPERS: YES/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
It’s no secret that we love Tudor Submariners here at Fathom. Once considered the younger and pluckier sibling of Rolex, Tudor Subs are finally getting the recognition they’ve long deserved. In some ways, they were even more “Rolex” than Rolex’s own tool models—purpose-built, no-frills, and wonderfully understated. One of the things we appreciate most is the even greater variety of dial and case configurations across the Tudor Sub line.
The ref. 7016 was introduced following the eleven-year run of the ref. 7928. Even more than its predecessor, the 7016 came in a wide range of variations—perhaps most famously as the first “Snowflake” reference (alongside the 7021), which introduced the distinctive square markers and hands, and the iconic blue dial/bezel combination.
However, many don’t realize that the 7016 started life in a very different guise. The present example represents the third and rarest iteration: a shield-logo dial (replacing the earlier “Rose” logo) with circular hour plots and the characteristic lollipop seconds hand. This configuration is believed to have been produced for only about 18 months.
This particular watch has been remarkably well preserved. The dial is mint, with the original tritium on the markers and hands having aged to a rich, creamy patina. The hands are slightly lighter than the dial—completely normal for this period. The case is also in excellent condition, with strong lugs and crown guards still present.
Inside, the upgraded ETA movement is running well, with timekeeping at +4 s/d, 265 amplitude, and a beat error of 0.4 ms. The standout feature, though, may well be the Joske’s Hecho en Mexico Jubilee bracelet. For those in the know, these Mexican-made bracelets are considered by many to be among Rolex’s best creations.
And the mystique? Despite its rarity, this reference is still priced below the more commonly seen Snowflake—likely because it remains something of a best-kept secret among horology buffs. We can write all about it - but you've really got to try it on to appreciate this thing.