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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The Tudor Big Block 79180 is the steel-tachymeter-bezel version of Tudor’s automatic Big Block chronograph. Introduced as part of the 79100 series, it pairs a substantial Oysterdate case with the Valjoux 7750 movement—a combination that helped make the Big Block Tudor’s first self-winding chronograph family.
What makes the Tudor 79180 a Big Block?
Tudor introduced its first self-winding chronograph family in 1976. The automatic rotor required a thicker case, and collectors gave the watches the nickname “Big Block.” Tudor called the models Prince Oysterdate chronographs and identified their movement as the Valjoux Calibre 7750. Tudor’s chronograph history traces the family’s development.
The 79100 series arrived in 1989 as the successor to the 9400 series. It retained the thick case and Big Block name, with changes that were mainly aesthetic, according to Tudor.
How to identify the 79180
The bezel is the key reference-level distinction: the 79180 has a steel tachymeter bezel. A collector guide distinguishes it from two other 79100-series configurations:
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- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Compatibility & Size: 20mm Custom Strap End Link Piece, compatible with Tudor Big Block 79160, 79170, 79180, Matte.
- Ensure Perfect Fit: Verify the size, color, and model compatibility with your specific watch before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit and avoid returns or exchanges.
- Compatibility Check: Double-check your watch's requirements and compatibility details to ensure the product meets your needs. This will help you avoid any issues with returns or exchanges.
- Aftermarket Product: This is an aftermarket/generic made to original factory specs for a precise fit.
| Reference | Bezel |
|---|---|
| 79160 | Black plastic tachymeter bezel |
| 79170 | Black graduated bidirectional 12-hour bezel |
| 79180 | Steel tachymeter bezel |
These reference and bezel distinctions are described in Tudor Collector’s Big Block guide. Dial details also vary: Tudor says multiple dial variations existed under a reference number, and the guide discusses different executions and colors. Identify the actual dial on the watch in front of you rather than assuming there is only one correct appearance.
Movement and chronograph layout
Tudor identifies the Big Block family’s movement as the Valjoux Calibre 7750. Its published specifications are a diameter of 30.4 mm (13 lignes) and a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour; Tudor describes its chronograph system as cam-and-oscillating-pinion operated.
Rank #2
- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Compatibility & Size: 2 Lug End Link 589, compatible with Tudor Big Block (79170, 79180, 79260, 79270, 79280, Oyster Band).
- Ensure Perfect Fit: Verify the size, color, and model compatibility with your specific watch before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit and avoid returns or exchanges.
- Compatibility Check: Double-check your watch's requirements and compatibility details to ensure the product meets your needs. This will help you avoid any issues with returns or exchanges.
- Aftermarket Product: This is an aftermarket/generic made to original factory specs for a precise fit.
The movement architecture shaped the dial: the display gained an hour counter, the counters shifted left, and the date aperture moved to 3 o’clock. Those family-level specifications do not authenticate the movement in any particular surviving 79180. For an individual watch, request service documentation and have its movement and chronograph operation assessed.
Dimensions, case and strap fit
A 2016 hands-on feature describes the 79180 as 40 mm across and 14 mm thick, with an acrylic crystal, screw-down pushers and drilled lugs for 20 mm straps. The author found the watch visually substantial but comfortable to wear. These are observations about the reviewed example, not a guarantee that every vintage watch remains unmodified. See Fratello’s 79180 feature.
Rank #3
- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Compatibility & Size: 20mm Oyster Watch Band, compatible with Tudor Big Block 79180, 79170, 79260, 79270, 79280 End 589.
- Ensure Perfect Fit: Verify the size, color, and model compatibility with your specific watch before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit and avoid returns or exchanges.
- Compatibility Check: Double-check your watch's requirements and compatibility details to ensure the product meets your needs. This will help you avoid any issues with returns or exchanges.
- Aftermarket Product: This is an aftermarket/generic made to original factory specs for a precise fit.
Chrono24’s reference page lists a steel case, automatic movement, 40.0 × 44.0 mm dimensions, Plexiglass and 10 ATM water resistance. These are marketplace-aggregated attributes, not a current Tudor guarantee or proof of water resistance in an older watch. Have the specific watch assessed before exposing it to water. If fitting a strap, confirm the watch’s lug width and spring bars and check the strap’s fit rather than relying on a reference-level listing.
What to inspect before buying
Condition and originality can matter as much as the reference number. The thick case can show wear, and the 2016 hands-on feature cautions that over-polishing can leave lugs thin. It also notes that service dials occur. Use detailed photographs from multiple angles, and seek an independent inspection from a qualified watchmaker or authenticator when possible.
Rank #4
- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- More Compatible Models: Also fits Tudor 84000, 84000A, 84033, 84033A, 84034, 84034A, 84040, 84040A, 84100, 84133, 841338, 84134, 841349, 84140, 91520N, 91530N, 91533N, 91534N, Oyster Date Automatic & others.
- Premium Sapphire Crystal: This Quality white sapphire crystal offers superior scratch resistance and clarity with 2.5x magnification, replicating the original look without lens distortion.
- Durable and Waterproof: Includes a Swiss nylon gasket, making the crystal pressure-resistant and waterproof, ensuring a long-lasting, secure fit for your watch.
- Upgrade Your Watch: Replace plastic crystals with our sapphire version for enhanced durability. Avoid scratches and maintain the original appearance with this top-grade sapphire crystal.
- Case and bezel: Examine lug thickness, edges, dents, polishing and bezel wear. Ask for clear views from several angles.
- Dial and hands: Establish whether they are original, service replacements or later changes. Do not treat a seller’s label as proof; ask what evidence supports it.
- Movement and service: Request dated service records and an assessment of the movement and chronograph functions. The cited sources do not establish a current official service interval or parts-supply guarantee for this reference.
- Completeness and seller: Compare condition, box and papers, seller location and service evidence. These details affect how comparable two watches are.
What current listings can—and cannot—tell you
On October 7, 2026, Chrono24’s visible international listings for the 79180 showed asking prices of approximately US$5,700 to US$16,600 before shipping. That is a dated marketplace snapshot, not a valuation or a record of completed sales; condition, authenticity, completeness, seller and location all affect comparability. Check Chrono24’s live 79180 listings for current asking prices.
For historical context only, Fratello estimated US$3,500–5,000 for examples in its 2016 feature, with condition, location and box or papers affecting the figure. It should not be read as a current price estimate.
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- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Compatibility & Size: Bezel, compatible with Tudor Watch 79170, 79180, 79260, 79270, 79280 Big Block Black Steel.
- Ensure Perfect Fit: Verify the size, color, and model compatibility with your specific watch before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit and avoid returns or exchanges.
- Compatibility Check: Double-check your watch's requirements and compatibility details to ensure the product meets your needs. This will help you avoid any issues with returns or exchanges.
- Aftermarket Product: This is an aftermarket/generic made to original factory specs for a precise fit.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
