Tudor Pelagos FXD: A U.S. Navy Legacy Reimagined

September 18, 2023

From its iconic timepieces inspired by marine adventures to collaborations with naval forces, Tudor’s expertise in crafting diver’s watches is globally acclaimed. This legacy continues with the introduction of the Black Tudor Pelagos FXD, a piece paying tribute to the brand’s vintage divers for the U.S. Navy.

The Evolution of Pelagos FXD

The Inception

In 2021, Tudor unveiled the Pelagos FXD, crafted in collaboration with France’s Marine Nationale. This model emerged as a refined version of the acclaimed Pelagos dive watch. Fast forward to the present day, and Tudor has seamlessly transitioned this collaboration into an homage to its historical relationship with the U.S. Navy.

Design and Specifications

The most striking feature of the latest Pelagos FXD is its captivating black hue, reminiscent of the darkest depths of the ocean. Yet, at its core, this model maintains the signature elements of the original MN collaborative piece.

The Titanium Case

Adorning a brushed titanium casing with dimensions of 42mm diameter, 52mm lug-to-lug, and a thickness of 12.75mm, the Pelagos FXD embodies robustness and elegance. The fixed spring bars, a defining feature denoted by the acronym FXD (FiXeD), cement its identity as a modern, versatile diver, now embellished with military accents.

The Ceramic Bezel

The ceramic bezel, in a rich black, is adorned with luminescent graduations. While it echoes the design ethos of the MN model, its uni-directional rotating feature sets it apart, meeting the stringent ISO standards set for dive watches.

Straps and Accessories

Complementing its majestic appearance is a one-piece fabric strap in forest green, highlighted by a striking red stripe. For those seeking an alternative, Tudor offers an additional one-piece rubber strap, ensuring versatility for every occasion.

A Glimpse into the Movement

At the heart of this masterpiece is the Tudor caliber MT5602. Initially introduced in 2016, this automatic, 4Hz movement boasts an impressive 70-hour power reserve. For those intrigued by the price point, this watch is available for $4,150, reflecting its exquisite craftsmanship and history.

Understanding Tudor’s Naval Connection

Delving deeper into Tudor’s archives reveals that the brand’s dive watches underwent rigorous testing by the U.S. Navy in the mid-1950s. By 1958, they were officially adopted, solidifying their place in naval history.

Tudor’s narrative emphasizes that the new Pelagos FXD draws inspiration from the vintage ’60s 7016, particularly recognizable by its snowflake hour hand. Yet, it masterfully weaves in mil-spec and design cues from various generations of Tudor divers issued to the Navy.

Interestingly, while many military-issued watches sported caseback engravings, U.S. Navy-issued Tudor watches deviated from this trend. Such nuances amplify the brand’s rich heritage and connection to elite naval forces.

The Essentials at a Glance

Brand: Tudor
Model: Pelagos FXD
Reference Number: M25717N-0001
Diameter: 42mm (52mm lug-to-lug)
Case Material: Titanium (grade 2)
Water Resistance: 200m
Price: $4,150

In conclusion, the Tudor Pelagos FXD is not just a timepiece; it’s a chronicle of Tudor’s enduring relationship with the naval world. It symbolizes a seamless blend of history, innovation, and craftsmanship—attributes that Tudor, as a brand, embodies with unwavering commitment.