Manufacturer: Heuer Year: Circa 1969 Reference No: 1133B Case No: 161’928, further stamped Tool No. 033 Model Name: Monaco Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 11, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Heuer bracelet, max length 195mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer deployant clasp Dimensions: 40mm width x 38mm length Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed Accessories: Further accompanied by original Heuer fitted presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
Introduced to the public in 1969, the Heuer Monaco was one of the very first self-winding chronograph wristwatches available in the market and was also the first chronograph wristwatch to incorporate a square-shaped case. Alongside the self-winding Zenith El Primero, the Monaco was considered as one of the foremost celebrated innovative wristwatches from the era.
Iconic and praised by many, the oversized square-shaped cases were made by Ervin Piquerez SA, with its paradigmatic left-handed crown specifically designed by the late Jack Heuer. Worn on the wrist of Steven McQueen in film “Le Mans”, the popularity of the Monaco grew even more. Featuring a rare transitional dial with “MONACO” on top of “Heuer”, the midnight blue dial stands out amongst all yielding various shades of blue.
This iconic chronograph manufacturer has a long tradition of precision timekeeping. As early as 1882, founder Edouard Heuer held a patent for a chronograph watch; in 1887, he received a patent for an oscillating pinion, which is still in use today. These specialized timepieces have been at the heart of the firm's success, enabling the brand to be chosen as early timekeepers for the Olympics. In 1969, the company introduced their first automatic chronograph watch, the Monaco Heuer, which celebrated the Monaco Grand Prix. Other key chronograph models include the Autavia and the Carrera, all of which having become iconic models of the firm.