The SAGA:
From tudorsub.com
In the early to mid 70’s, the Tudor Submariner ref. 9401/0 and 9411/0 were introduced. With this new generation of submariners, Tudor rolled out a newer modified ETA movement: the cal. 2776 and 2784 (date), which was fitted with a hacking seconds feature that allowed for more accurate time setting. The case remained 39mm with a Rolex signed case back. Both references came in either blue or black. These references would also be the last to feature the “Snowflake” dial. Around 1976, we start to see the removal of the /0 for both references. From then, until the end of the production run, they would be referenced as 94110 and 94010.
The 94110 (with a date function) seems to have been rolled out in 1973, starting around serial 798xxx. The early examples of the 94110 had a defect in the paint mixture resulting in bubbling, akin to the previous ref. 7021/0. Upon realizing this, Tudor quickly addressed the issue with a new paint mixture that did not lead to bubbling or rotting.
In approximately 1981, we see a new type of shield dial only introduced on the 94110. For the sake of comparison, Type A will be used to reference pre-1981 shield dials and Type B to reference post-1981 shield dials. The easiest way to differentiate the two is Type B's shield was longer and the “m” and “ft” in the bottom print were in bold compared to the rest of the font. If type B is found pre-1980, it is assumed to have been used as a replacement during service. In 1984, the serial numbers reset. This coincides with the introduction of the transitional ref. 76100 which would replace the 94110.
The ref. 94010 was introduced in 1975, around serial 845xxx. Circa 1983, towards the end of the reference production, we see the 9401/0 “Snowflake” dial replaced with a newer gloss variation that had mercedes hands and round and triangle hour markers at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock. These newer dials also came in blue or black and always featured a date.
Tech Specs:
Year of manufacture: 1979
Serial Number: 912XXX
Dial: Very good blue dial with warm, butterscotch luminous plots, with darker centers that lighten as they progress outward. The hands have been color matched to the dial. As with most Tudor dials of this era, some spotting has occurred. A black spot above the 4:00 marker could not be removed during the cleaning process.
Bezel Insert: Heavily faded Mk IV bezel insert that shows wear from use. Tritium pearl matches the dial nicely.
Case: Very strong case with original chamfers present. It shows heavy wear from use. Dent on top of the lower right lug.
Bracelet: Original 93150 with 580 end links. Bracelet has minimal stretch, particularly for its age.
Movement: ETA cal. 2776 with hacking seconds.
Accessories: the word “snowflake” being cool again.
Watch is currently running at COSC spec