Established in 1882, Hanhart was among one of the foremost manufacturers of chronograph timepieces since its establishment, most notable for their highly precise yet affordable stopwatches. In 1938, the firm launched its first modern chronograph wristwatch housing the iconic and robust cal. 40 monopusher movement for the German Navy. Three years later, the cal. 41 was launched featuring the firm’s first two-button chronograph wristwatch. In 1956, the firm released the ref. 417 Flieger with strong resemblance to Hanhart chronograph timepieces from WWII with newly implemented pencil hands. Produced for only a mere couple of years, it is estimated that only 1,000 examples were produced with only 500 examples encased in stainless steel stamped “ES” inside the caseback. However, the true buzz behind the legendary ref. 417 was that it was the watch proudly worn and owned by legendary Hollywood actor and motorcycle enthusiast Steve McQueen. To commemorate the heritage of the Pioneer chronograph in 2020, Hanhart in collaboration with Revolution and The Rake released a limited edition of 150 examples encased in bronze. After a successful reception, Hanhart released the stainless steel edition paying hommage to the original ref. 417.

The present lot offered comprises of both the limited edition timepiece in bronze and its regular counterpart in stainless steel. Preserved in excellent "like new" overall condition, this is a great opportunity for chronograph enthusiast to acquire an attractive pair of chronograph wristwatches manufactured by Hanhart.