Tudor Monte Carlo ‘Home Plate’ Chronograph (7032/0) – Chrono Swiss Watch

Pre-owned Tudor 40mm Monte Carlo ‘Home Plate’ Chronograph, Oyster Bracelet, Ref. 7032/0 Produced for approximately two years, the Monte Carlo was the first chronograph produced by Tudor. As a brand, Tudor was intended to bring affordable watches to Rolex customers.  Under its unique brand name, Tudor experimented with designs that Rolex might later adopt, or not.  These Monte Carlo chronographs became known as “Home Plate” dials due to their hour markers’ resemblance to the baseball diamond’s home plate.  The interesting design of these chronographs have been a hit with collectors ever since they were first introduced.  At 40mm, what was initially perceived as a large watch, they are a perfect modern size.  The steel bezel includes a tachymeter scale for use with the chronograph, which uses an orange-red hand.  The pushers are screw-in, which protect them from being pushed when under water.  Powered by a hand-winding Valjoux caliber 7734 movement, the watch has a well-made and respected movement that has received a recent service, which includes passing pressure testing and a new crystal.  The bracelet is the correct 7836 bracelet with 380 end links  and shows very little stretch. The tritium lume on the dial face has mostly deteriorated, with full lume still on the hour and minute hands. Under magnification, the lacquer on the dial has developed small darker spots, which is typical for these dials.  This Monte Carlo still charms today as much as did when first introduced, and perhaps more so based on how few remain.  It’s an attractive watch that should please fans of vintage chronographs.