The TUDOR Pelagos FXD represents a purpose-built professional diving instrument developed in collaboration with the Marine Nationale (French Navy). Continuing TUDOR’s historic relationship with France’s naval forces dating back to the 1950s, this exceptional timepiece features unique technical specifications derived directly from combat swimmers’ requirements. The distinctive “FXD” designation references the fixed strap bars machined directly into the main body of the 42mm titanium case, an innovative design ensuring total security even in the most demanding underwater conditions. With its bidirectional bezel optimised for underwater navigation, matte blue dial, and specialised technical fabric strap, the Pelagos FXD combines authentic military heritage with TUDOR’s renowned robust engineering.
Condition: Excellent pre-owned condition
Includes: Complete box set
Guarantee: Warranty valid until 2027
Shipping: Free UK delivery
Pelagos FXD Key Features
Military-Grade Specifications
- Developed in conjunction with French Navy combat swimmers (Commando Hubert)
- Fixed strap bars machined directly into the 42mm titanium case for maximum security
- Bidirectional rotating bezel with ceramic disc and 60-minute retrograde graduation
- Specially designed for underwater navigation by successive stages
- Navy blue dial with luminous square hour markers and distinctive “snowflake” hands
- Titanium case with satin-brushed finish offering exceptional corrosion resistance
- 52mm lug-to-lug length optimised for secure fit over diving equipment
- 12.75mm case thickness balancing robustness with practical wearability
Technical Excellence
- TUDOR Manufacture Calibre MT5602 self-winding mechanical movement
- COSC-certified chronometer ensuring precise timekeeping
- Impressive 70-hour power reserve for reliable weekend-off wear
- Silicon balance spring providing resistance to magnetic fields
- Bidirectional winding system for efficient power generation
- Free-sprung balance with micro-adjustment screws for stable timekeeping
- Non-magnetic components ensuring reliability in all conditions
- Sapphire crystal offering excellent clarity and scratch resistance
Professional Diving Credentials
- Exceptional water resistance to 200 meters (660 feet)
- Navy blue fabric strap with self-gripping fastening system
- Additional complimentary navy blue rubber strap with woven motif included
- Titanium buckle matching the case material
- 22mm lug width maintaining proportional balance
- Titanium crown adorned with the TUDOR shield in relief
- 200m depth rating suitable for professional diving activities
- Specifically designed for underwater navigation techniques
The TUDOR Heritage
TUDOR’s association with the world’s most renowned navies dates back to the 1950s when the French Marine Nationale first adopted TUDOR dive watches for their underwater operations. This historic collaboration has influenced TUDOR’s approach to creating reliable, purpose-built timepieces for professional use. The Pelagos FXD continues this legacy, having been developed with direct input from the elite Commando Hubert unit, France’s combat swimmer specialists. Their exacting requirements for underwater navigation and timing informed every aspect of the watch’s design, from the bidirectional bezel to the fixed strap bars. This authentic military connection distinguishes the Pelagos FXD as more than just a dive watch; it represents a functional tool created to meet the standards of elite special forces.
Perfect For
- Military and professional divers seeking equipment with authentic operational credentials
- Watch enthusiasts appreciating TUDOR’s naval heritage and historic collaborations
- Collectors of professional-grade diving instruments with military specifications
- Active individuals requiring a robust timepiece for aquatic adventures
- Those who value purpose-built design over superfluous features
- Admirers of technical innovation with practical applications
- Individuals seeking a dive watch with distinctive character and authentic heritage
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Pelagos FXD differ from the standard Pelagos models?
The Pelagos FXD features several significant differences that set it apart from the standard Pelagos models. Most notably, the “FXD” designation refers to the fixed strap bars that are machined directly into the main titanium case block, unlike the removable spring bars found on standard models. This construction method creates exceptional durability but means the watch can only be worn on pass-through straps.
The FXD also features a bidirectional bezel with retrograde graduation specifically designed for underwater navigation, whereas standard Pelagos models use a unidirectional diving bezel. At 12.75mm thick, the FXD is slimmer than the regular Pelagos (14.5mm), lacks a helium escape valve, and offers 200m water resistance rather than 500m. These differences reflect the FXD’s specific purpose as a navigation tool for combat swimmers rather than a deep-diving instrument. Additionally, the FXD does not include a date function, maintaining dial symmetry and operational simplicity.
What is the significance of the bidirectional bezel for underwater navigation?
The bidirectional rotating bezel with 60-minute retrograde graduation is specifically designed for the underwater navigation technique used by combat swimmers. Unlike typical dive watch bezels that track elapsed dive time (and therefore rotate only counterclockwise as a safety feature), the FXD’s bezel is optimised for plotting underwater courses. Naval combat swimmers use a technique called “successive legs navigation” where they follow precise underwater routes using a compass bearing and predetermined distances.
The bidirectional functionality allows for quick adjustments when planning multiple bearing changes, while the retrograde graduation enables the diver to read time backwards when necessary. This specialized functionality demonstrates how the watch was developed with direct input from professional users with specific operational requirements, rather than simply adapting an existing design for marketing purposes.
How does the fabric strap enhance the watch’s military functionality?
The navy blue fabric strap is far more than a stylistic choice, it represents a technical solution developed specifically for military applications. Crafted by Julien Faure, a traditional French passementerie company using 19th-century Jacquard looms, the one-piece strap features a unique self-gripping fastening system designed to meet the requirements of elite combat swimmers.
The strap’s construction provides exceptional security, preventing accidental release during underwater operations while allowing quick adjustment over diving equipment. The central grey stripe references the historic “Marine Nationale” straps that French Navy divers would create from parachute elastic in the past. Unlike traditional NATO straps, this specialised strap is designed for the specific rigours of military diving operations, with superior wet-dry performance, resistance to saltwater degradation, and minimal water retention. The inclusion of a complementary rubber strap provides additional versatility for different conditions.
What is the historical relationship between TUDOR and the French Navy?
TUDOR’s relationship with the Marine Nationale began in the 1950s when the French Navy began seeking reliable timepieces for their expanding underwater operations. The partnership became official in 1956 when TUDOR watches were first approved for service by French combat swimmers. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, TUDOR supplied several reference models to the Marine Nationale, with the distinctive “M.N.” engravings on casebacks becoming highly sought after by collectors today.
The French Navy’s feedback directly influenced TUDOR’s design evolution, including the development of the iconic “snowflake” hands first introduced in 1969 to enhance underwater legibility. After a period without official collaboration, TUDOR re-established its connection with the Marine Nationale to develop the Pelagos FXD, working directly with the Commando Hubert unit to create a watch specifically tailored to their operational requirements. This authentic military input distinguishes the FXD from watches that merely adopt military aesthetics without functional purpose.
What makes Grade 2 titanium ideal for a professional diving watch?
Grade 2 titanium offers several compelling advantages for a professional diving instrument like the Pelagos FXD. Its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio results in a watch that is approximately 40% lighter than an equivalent stainless steel model while maintaining superior durability. A crucial consideration for military personnel who must often wear their equipment for extended periods. Titanium’s outstanding corrosion resistance, particularly to saltwater, ensures longevity in marine environments where steel may deteriorate over time. The material’s low thermal conductivity prevents the watch from becoming uncomfortably cold against the skin during winter diving operations.
Additionally, titanium develops a distinctive, subtle patina through use that many professional divers appreciate as it reduces reflectivity, a potentially important tactical consideration. The satin-brushed finish applied to the FXD’s case further minimises reflection while providing a technical, tool-like appearance appropriate for its military application.
How does the MT5602 movement contribute to the watch’s reliability in field conditions?
The Manufacture Calibre MT5602 powering the Pelagos FXD was specifically selected and engineered to meet the demands of professional military use. Its substantial 70-hour power reserve ensures the watch remains accurate through a weekend of non-wear or during extended operations where winding may be impractical. The silicon balance spring provides crucial resistance to magnetic fields that might be encountered in military environments with various electronic equipment. The free-sprung balance with micro-adjustment screws maintains accuracy despite the shocks and vibrations associated with combat diving activities.
The movement’s bidirectional winding system efficiently converts the wearer’s natural motion into stored energy, while the omission of a date function eliminates the possibility of misalignment or malfunction of additional complications. As a COSC-certified chronometer, each movement undergoes rigorous testing to ensure accuracy under various conditions, including different positions and temperatures, precisely the variables faced during military deployment.
