In the late 1990s, Tudor signed Tiger Woods as a brand ambassador. To celebrate the partnership, Tudor released a line of chronographs featuring the word “Tiger” printed on the dial. These watches became instantly recognizable as the “Tiger Chronographs.”

The reference 79280, with its striking blue dial, is among the most coveted from this series. It blended Tudor’s tool‑watch spirit with sporty elegance, while carrying the prestige of being tied to Tiger Woods at the height of his dominance in professional golf.

Design & Features

• Case: 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, reflecting Rolex’s influence in design and build quality.

• Dial: A rich blue dial, enhanced with three contrasting chronograph registers. The word “Tiger” sits proudly above the 6 o’clock subdial, setting it apart from non‑Tiger editions.

• Bezel: Fixed tachymeter bezel, a hallmark of Tudor’s Prince Date chronographs.

• Crystal: Sapphire crystal with Cyclops magnifier over the date window.

• Movement: Powered by the tried‑and‑true Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movement, renowned for reliability and ease of service.

• Bracelet: Stainless steel Oyster bracelet, though some models came on leather straps.

Rarity and Collectibility

While the 79280 was produced in various dial colours, the blue dial Tiger edition remains among the more difficult to source. Its limited production run, combined with the Tiger Woods branding, has made it a sought‑after piece for collectors of both Tudor and sports memorabilia.

Prices for these watches have risen steadily over the last decade, with good examples commanding £3,000–£6,000 depending on condition and whether they come with original box and papers. Collectors particularly value full sets, as they highlight the watch’s historical context as part of Tudor’s Tiger Woods collaboration.

Why Collectors Love It

1. Historical Significance – It represents Tudor’s brand evolution in the late 1990s, before the modern Black Bay era.

2. Sporting Legacy – Directly linked to Tiger Woods during his prime, appealing to watch and sports enthusiasts alike.

3. Design – The blue dial offers a vibrant alternative to more common black or silver variants, giving it a distinct presence on the wrist.

Final Thoughts

The Tudor 79280 Blue Dial “Tiger” is more than just a watch—it’s a time capsule of a pivotal era for both Tudor and Tiger Woods. With its mix of Rolex‑inspired build, robust chronograph movement, and limited availability, it has rightfully earned its place as a collector’s gem. For those seeking a Tudor chronograph with character, provenance, and a dash of sporting prestige, the 79280 “Tiger” blue dial edition remains one of the most compelling choices.