Dubai Watch Week 2025 really surprised us. We witnessed a multitude of innovations during the largest fair ever, with more than 40 brands involved, in an unprecedented edition.
Among these novelties, one of the most interesting is from Tudor, which introduces the new Ranger, in two versions of 39 mm and 36 mm, making it perfect for all wrists. The Ranger collection was introduced in 2022 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the British North Greenland Expedition, but before we talk about the new model, let’s take a step back to explore the history of the collection, which has its roots in an adventure-filled past.
How did the Ranger come about?
Hans Wilsdorf – Credit: Rolex
Did you know that Rolex and Tudor were founded by the same man? Mr. Hans Wilsdorf was the founder of the two houses.
The origins of the Ranger family of Tudor date back to 1929. That year Hans Wilsdorf registered the name “Ranger,” three years after he registered the Trademark “The Tudor.” At that time that name was not used to denote a specific model, but to give a connotation of adventure to certain models in the Tudor collection. The parallels between Tudor and historical expeditions became firmly established, until in the 1950s Tudor began making watches that would become stars of great exploratory endeavors.
Tudor ref. 279 from 1943 – Credits: Swiss Watches Magazine
In the 1950s, the Tudor Ranger became a symbol of endurance and reliability in extreme environments. The British North Greenland Expedition, between 1952 and 1954, used Tudor watches such as the Oyster Prince Ref. 7808, known for its sturdiness. The philosophy of the Tudor “exploration” watch was consolidated in those years, offering models that were practical, solid, and reasonably priced.
Tudor ref. 7808 – Credits: Hodinkee Community
Why a Watch in Greenland?
During expeditions such as the British North Greenland Expedition, a watch was a crucial tool for navigation as the activity took place in a remote and inhospitable region. The extreme conditions of isolation and long days of light or darkness made it difficult to navigate. The watch, in this context, was not just an accessory, but a practical tool to ensure synchronization of activities, time management, and coordination among expedition members.
The use of a sturdy watch like the Tudor Oyster Prince was also essential for keeping track of time during daily operations. The automatic movement and shock/water-resistant case ensured that the watch would run flawlessly, regardless of conditions.
Tudor Ranger II – Credits: Goldhammer
The Ranger of the 1960s and 1970s.
In the 1960s, the configuration of the Ranger saw the introduction of black dials and luminescent Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock, with an “arrow” hour sphere. In the 1970s, Tudor was part of the colored dial revolution, with the Ranger II featuring new colors and a bracelet integrated with the case.
The Return in 2022
Tudor Ranger of 2022 with Tudor ref. 7808 – Credits: Tudor
In 2022, Tudor decided to relaunch the Ranger collection, paying homage to the Greenland expedition with a design that retains the original aesthetic traits: luminescent Arabic numerals and arrow hour hand, but with modern materials and finishes, including the new manufacture movement with the caliber MT5402, a COSC-certified bidirectional automatic.
New dial and diameter
This year, the Ranger line expands with a new model that retains the design, but with both a 39mm and 36mm diameter, making it more versatile and suitable for everyone. The new model, with its
Availability and price
The Tudor Ranger 36mm is available now, with a price of €3,510 for the version with a steel bracelet, while with a NATO bracelet the starting price is €3,180. The dials available are Dune White and Black, just like the 39mm model.
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