In the world of vintage chronographs, there are some watches that can be considered nothing short of legendary. Whether due to the brilliance of their design, or their association with historical events or figures, they have become classics. The history of the brands that produced them can be clearly defined as two periods — pre-legend, and post-legend.
Take for example the Heuer Carrera. It’s regarded by collectors as one of the most perfect chronograph designs of all time — if not the very best. Stemming from its creator Jack Heuer’s quest to create the most legible chronograph, the Carrera has spawned countless imitators. To collectors of vintage Heuer, it’s the be all, end all of chronographs, an absolute must-have for any collection.
It’s so iconic that any chronograph they produced before the release of the Carrera in the 1960s is automatically referred to as “pre-Carreras.”
However, Heuer first created its first chronograph in the 1890s — a long period rich with beautiful chronograph designs that, though they may not have “Carrera” on the dial, are no less worthy of consideration. In fact, the roots of what would become the Carrera would be planted much earlier than the 1960s — twenty years earlier.
The years following the Second World War were a pivotal period in chronograph design for Heuer. Many chronographs produced during this time retained the clean lines of the watches worn by military personnel during the war. Though their cases were notably smaller than their 1960s successors, such as the Carrera, they were also steel and waterproof.
This beautiful steel chronograph epitomizes Heuer’s mid-century design prowess. Featuring a 37mm stainless steel case with 'holey' lugs this piece features barrel chronograph pushers, a domed acrylic crystal, a correct unsigned crown, and a manually-wound Valjoux 22 movement within.
The silver dial features a set of printed indices and a matching blued-steel 'syringe' handset that have patinated to a beautiful caramel tone. Accompanied by a pair of subsidiary registers and a Türler signature, this dial has all the makings of a fantastic vintage dial.
Want a vintage chronograph without the added baggage that comes with the Crown?
Add this Heuer to your collection and stand out in a room full of Daytonas and Speedies!