This is one of those proper mid-century Tudors that just gets everything right: purposeful Oyster case, a clean explorer-style dial layout, and the kind of honest ageing you can’t fake. The 34mm case is the sweet-spot “full size” for the era—still slim and elegant, but with enough presence to feel modern on the wrist (especially with today’s swing back toward cleaner, more wearable proportions).
The dial is the star here. You’ve got the classic Arabic 12/3/6/9 arrangement with sharp faceted markers in-between, all sitting on a warm, creamy base that’s picked up that gentle, even patina collectors chase. The gold-tone furniture and those crisp details give it that “early tool-watch meets dress-watch” vibe—exactly why these 1940s Oysters work with almost anything.
On the wrist it wears brilliantly: neat, balanced, and quietly confident. Think knitwear and cords in autumn, a wool overcoat in town, or just a white tee and jeans where you want something vintage that still looks serious.
A Previously sold Tudor 7804 Below
Extra Points
Just after the Second World War, Hans Wilsdorf founder of Rolex, knew that the time had come to expand and give the Tudor brand a proper identity of its own. Therefore, on 6 March 1946, he created the “Montres TUDOR S.A.” company, specialising in models for both men and women. Rolex guaranteed the technical, aesthetic and functional characteristics, along with the distribution and after-sales service.
The Tudor rose within a shield was meant to represent an invincible union of strength. Its robustness, elegant lines and beauty of design. In 1947 Tudor introduced the Oyster, their first waterproof watch, building on the success of the Rolex Oyster of the same period.In 1952, 26 Tudor Oyster Prince watches were included in the British scientific expedition to Greenland organized by the Royal Navy and sponsored by The Queen. This showed the world how robust Tudor Oyster watches were.
Fully serviced by us in our on-site workshop and comes with our 12 months, non-waterproof service cover.
What we think
About as good a vintage, preowned Tudor as you will find and a great option for anyone wanting to get into the vintage watch world or a seasoned collector without paying Rolex prices. Tudors have such a visible connection to Rolex but still give off their own charm. Tudor watch co are flying high of late and very much in demand. Please note the 34mm size of this watch and not the smaller version so perfect for anyone. This is probably one of the best 7804 models with original patina Rolex explorer style dial currently available in the Uk. Grab it while you can !
If you like the early Explorer / “pre-adventure” aesthetic but want something with a bit more under-the-radar charm, this is a cracking route. Tudor in the 1940s a special thing—properly made, properly wearable, and still loaded with the design cues that later became icons. The dial layout gives you that explorer energy, but the softer tones and refined case shape keep it effortlessly versatile.
It’s also the kind of watch that doesn’t shout. It just looks right—the sort of piece you end up wearing far more than you expect, because it works for weekday office wear, a weekend pub lunch, and even something a bit smarter without feeling like you’re trying too hard.
Movement : Cal Tudor / ETA 1182 Age :1940/1949 Specific Age :1948 Case Size : 34mm Case Thickness : 12mm Lug to Lug : 40mm Lugs : 19mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : No Case Material : Stainless Steel Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof service cover
1948 Tudor Oyster Ref 7804 steel watch with original explorer-style dial, 34mm, patent Oyster crown
