In the world of vintage watches, certain Rolex models have become icons. Timepieces that were once everyday tools now fetch five or six-figure sums at auction. The question many collectors are asking is this: which modern Tudors might follow the same path?

Tudor is gaining real momentum, with a clear design language, a strong historical foundation and a loyal following. By looking at what made vintage Rolexes so valuable, we can start to make some educated guesses about which Tudors might become the future’s most sought-after watches.

Learning from Vintage Rolex

So what exactly makes a watch collectable? It’s rarely just the brand or scarcity alone. Most of the time, it comes down to a combination of factors: historical significance, unique details, short production runs and a genuine tool-watch spirit.

Vintage Rolex favourites like the Submariner 5513, the Explorer II 1655 or the Paul Newman Daytona have become icons not only because of their rarity but because they captured a specific moment in time. Some were even considered underwhelming when first released, which only adds to their mystique now.

Tudor is creating watches today that mirror those same ingredients.

Tudor Black Bay 58 (2018)

The Black Bay 58 has already become a fan favourite, and for good reason. Its 39mm case, clean no-date dial and vintage-inspired gilt accents all echo early Submariners. It also marked Tudor’s move to in-house movements, making it a milestone release.

If Tudor ever retires this model or releases heavily revised versions, early editions, particularly the original black dial variant, are strong candidates for future collectability.

Tudor Pelagos FXD

Built in partnership with the French Navy, the Pelagos FXD brings real military pedigree to the Tudor line-up. With fixed strap bars, a titanium case and Marine Nationale caseback markings, it offers something you rarely see in modern Swiss watches: true field-ready credentials.

Just as military-issue Rolexes have become incredibly collectable over time, the FXD’s unique build and backstory could make it highly desirable in the future, especially if production remains limited. 

Black Bay Pro (2022)

When the Black Bay Pro was released, it sparked comparisons with the vintage Rolex Explorer II reference 1655, a watch that took years to be fully appreciated but is now a grail for many collectors. The BB Pro follows a similar formula with a fixed steel bezel, bold orange GMT hand and strong retro styling.

Initial opinions were mixed due to the case thickness, which could mean the model flies under the radar. If Tudor later revises the case or discontinues it altogether, the original reference might well be looked back on as a hidden gem.

Tudor Ranger (2022 Reissue)

The 2022 Ranger brought the model back in a refined 39mm size with a no-fuss, legible dial. Much like the Rolex Explorer, it celebrates simplicity, clarity and utility.

It may not turn heads in the same way as more complicated models, but that quiet charm is often what gives a watch long-term appeal. The Ranger is a reminder that less can truly be more, and that’s often where future collectables are born.

Tudor Black Bay Chrono

Inspired by vintage motorsport chronographs, the Black Bay Chrono has already drawn comparisons to early Rolex Daytonas. With panda and reverse panda dials, robust construction and an in-house chronograph calibre developed with Breitling, it offers a lot of substance.

If Tudor streamlines the chronograph line or retires certain dial variations, these could become the Daytonas of tomorrow, especially if collectors begin to favour character and wearability over hype.

Final Thoughts: Watch What’s Quietly Special

There’s no perfect formula when it comes to predicting future collectables. But looking at history, the watches that become most valuable are often the ones that felt underappreciated when they were new.

Tudor is in a sweet spot right now, creating watches that are honest, well made and rooted in real heritage. They aren’t trying too hard to be luxury statements. Instead, they’re quietly becoming some of the most authentic timepieces on the market.

If you’re collecting with the future in mind, look out for models with historical nods, limited production quirks or strong first-generation status. Because in a few decades’ time, today’s Tudors may just be what vintage Rolexes are now. Highly collectable pieces of horological history.