PHOTO REPORT: Australian Tudor Heritage Ranger launch

Felix Scholz

Last night, Melbourne played host to the first official Tudor event in Australia, the launch of the Tudor Heritage Ranger. The venue (La Chinesca) was perfect for a Melbourne launch. Sydney may have harbour restaurants and views of the Opera House, but down here in Melbourne we’re happy with a laneway, poor / non-existent signage and an underground bar.

Tudor's Heritage Collection — A selection from Tudor’s Heritage collection.

The event was the official launch of the Tudor Heritage Ranger, and aside from being an opportunity to mingle with like-minded watch fans, as well as get up close and personal with Tudor’s latest pieces, it also gave Tudor the opportunity to explain what their watches were all about.

Rolex Australia General Manager Patrick Boutellier explains the legacy and style of Tudor.

La Chinesca is part owned by Archibald award winning artist Vincent Fantauzzo, and the gorgeous photo-realistic portraits adorning the walls only added to the elegant ambience.

Tudor Heritage Ranger custom strap — Tudor Heritage Ranger and strap customised by Vincent Fantauzzo.

Fantauzzo is a lover and supporter of Tudor watches, and aside from hosting the party, offered his considerable artistic talent in painting a one-of-a-kind Ranger strap, which was auctioned (along with a Tudor Heritage Ranger) off to support the Australian charity Fair Go, which works to support underprivileged young people. The watch was put under the hammer by Channel 10 head honcho Russell Howcroft, and the room was stunned to silence by the selling price of $13,500.

Tudor-event-24 — Team Time+Tide get acquainted prior to the main event.

Time+Tide was privileged to be able to attend with ten guests, including winners of our ‘Where would you take the Heritage Ranger?’ competition as well some of our long term supporters.

Tudor-event-44 — Ben (@ben_capuano) and Andy (@andygreenlive), with his March LAB, take a break from talking watches to look sartorially splendid for the camera. Well played, gents.

Tudor-event-43 — Suman (@sumankreddy) plots his next watch purchase (ideally an A Lange & Sohne Zeitwerk). Meanwhile he’s rocking the Breitling Transocean Chronograph.

Check out the full gallery below for all the action, including wrist shots (WARNING: intense jealousy may ensue, see your watch dealer if symptoms persist) and wearer stories.