Rolex introduced Tudor to the market in 1945 with the objective of selling high quality watches at a more accessible price. Throughout its history, Rolex used the Tudor line to experiment with different designs and concepts and the Submariner line was no exception. Its durability and legibility made it an ideal choice for one of the world’s elite naval forces: the French Marine Nationale, established in 1624 as la Marine Royale by Cardinal Richelieu.

The reference 9401/0 without date function, replaced the reference 7016/0 in 1975, bringing a more robust movement with hacking seconds but retaining the unusual square-shaped hour markers and “snowflake” handset. Both references, and their sister references with date, were commissioned by the Marine Nationale until the 1980s for use by their divers, and these “issued” “MN” Submariners are among the most coveted of any Tudor Submariners. Preserved in overall excellent condition, it also has “M.N. 80” crisply engraved on the caseback.

With a beautifully faded bezel, rich azure colored dial, and crisp case, this reference 9401/0’s collectability is bolstered by both its history and fantastic aesthetics.