During the late 1990s, Tudor introduced the Monarch collection which featured quartz chronographs which took inspiration of the Daytona's silhouette. The reference 15903 incorporates a two-tone stainless steel and 18k yellow gold case and bracelet. Its case is considered mid-sized at 36mm with approximately 11mm thickness.
Powering the watch is the Calibre 1220, a 22-jewel mecha-quartz movement that operates standard timekeeping via quartz regulation while driving chronograph intervals through an integrated mechanical gear train. A 36-millimeter case incorporates a fixed steel tachymeter bezel paired with a sunburst champagne dial arranged with three black sub-dials and luminous baton hands.
Conceived in 1926 by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf, Tudor’s original mission was to offer the dependability of a Rolex at a more accessible price point, initially utilizing robust third-party movements within Rolex-supplied Oyster cases. The brand forged its own distinct identity through military adoption, most notably by the French Marine Nationale.
The modern era, heralded by the successful Black Bay collection, saw Tudor masterfully reinterpret this rich heritage for a modern audience. Their revival is strengthened by a strategic shift to produce calibres in-house, solidifying Tudor’s transition into a fully integrated watchmaker.
Overall Grade: 8 / 10 | Great Condition, Visible Wear Production: Undated year Contents: Full-set Genre: Sports Chronograph
Size: 36mm Thickness: approx. 11mm Lug Width: approx. 20mm
Case: Stainless steel, mirrored case sides and lugs, visible wear Bezel: Fixed bezel, gold-plated tachymeter insert, mirrored finish, visible wear Dial: Sunburst champagne dial, applied gold markers, black subdials, visible wear Hands: Gold-tone syringe hands, visible wear
Crown: 18k yellow gold, screw-down crown and pushers, visible wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, visible wear Bracelet: Stainless steel and 18k yellow gold bracelet, visible wear Caseback: Stainless steel, solid, screw-on, visible wear Movement: Mecha-Quartz Chronograph Caliber: Calibre 1220