The Tudor Pelagos FXD modern "Milsub" (Military Submariner) draws inspiration from the watches used by US Navy personnel in the late '60s through the early '80s, blending heritage design with cutting-edge technology. Let's delve into the unique features and history that make the Pelagos FXD a standout addition to Tudor's distinguished dive watch lineage.
A Tribute to US Navy Dive Watches:
Tudor's relationship with the US Navy dates back to the mid-'50s when its dive watches were first put to the test by Navy units. By 1958, they were officially adopted, becoming an integral part of Navy operations. The Pelagos FXD is the spiritual successor to these legendary watches, and its name, "FXD," hints at its fixed strap bars, a nod to its robust construction.
Design and Features:
The Pelagos FXD boasts a striking matt black dial with applied hour markers filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova luminous material. The distinctive "Snowflake" hands, introduced in 1969, offer enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. Inside the 42mm satin-brushed titanium case, you'll find the high-performance Manufacture Calibre MT5602, COSC-certified and equipped with a silicon hairspring, ensuring precision and a remarkable 70-hour power reserve.
The unidirectional rotatable titanium bezel with a ceramic insert and luminescent markers adds functionality and durability to the watch. It's not just about looks; the Pelagos FXD is designed to withstand depths of up to 200 meters.
Historical Significance:
US Navy personnel relied on tudor dive watches for decades, from SEAL teams to various underwater roles. These watches played a crucial role in teaching scuba diving and supporting underwater maintenance activities worldwide. The Pelagos FXD's design pays tribute to the late '60s to early '80s era tudor watches worn by Navy personnel, with its iconic square hour markers, angular "Snowflake" hands, and utilitarian features.
Unique Specifications:
Developed in collaboration with active-duty combat swimmers, the Pelagos FXD adheres to precise specifications. Its fixed strap bars, machined into the titanium case, enhance durability and reliability. The ergonomic 60-notch rotating bezel meets ISO standards for diver's watches.
Pure Navy Style:
Historically, US Navy divers favoured fabric straps, and the Pelagos FXD continues this tradition with a one-piece green fabric strap featuring a red central thread and a self-gripping fastening system. Additionally, a dark grey embossed fabric-motif one-piece rubber strap provides a fresh take on a classic look.
Manufacture Calibre MT5602:
The Pelagos FXD is powered by the Manufacture Calibre MT5602, offering hours, minutes, and seconds functions. Its robust build, non-magnetic silicon hairspring, and COSC certification ensure precision and longevity. The 70-hour power reserve makes it "weekend-proof."
Divers' Watch Legacy:
Tudor's dive watch legacy began in 1954 with the reference 7922, setting the standard for affordable, robust, and precise dive watches. Over seven decades, TUDOR has continually improved its divers' watches, gaining recognition from elite military navies worldwide. The Pelagos FXD, introduced in 2021, continues this legacy alongside some of the world's most elite navy units. The Pelagos FXD is a testament to a rich history of reliability, precision, and durability in the world of dive watches. With its modern design and historical significance, this watch carries forward the legacy of Tudor's contribution to the US Navy and dive watch enthusiasts worldwide.
