1972 Heuer Carrera ref 1553 Cal.15
Perfect dial with very rare lumed markers
$3950.00
Out of stock
Introduced by Heuer in 1963, the Carrera quickly became one of the most iconic vintage Heuer chronograph models. The Carrera's design has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the styles and trends of each era. Starting in the 1960s with the reference 2447, the Carrera showcased a classic round case with the crown and pushers on the right side. By the 1970s, the brand embraced more adventurous styles, including tonneau-shaped cases with left-hand crown orientation.
The featured model, reference 1553S, boasts a tonneau-shaped stainless steel case and houses the caliber 15 automatic movement, distinguished by its hidden micro-rotor. This particular reference came in various dial variants. The "S" in ref. 1553S indicates the silver dial version. The dial features a striking metallic finish with horizontal striations, giving it a sophisticated look.
A bold design element of this watch is its asymmetrical registers, with running seconds on the left and a 30-minute counter on the right. Despite the asymmetry, the blue color block seamlessly ties the dial together, highlighting the chronograph minute counter at three o'clock and the "CARRERA" branding at nine o'clock. The smokey slate grey outer tachymeter scale adds a refined frame to the silver dial.
The left-hand crown orientation is a nod to Heuer's commitment to developing one of the first automatic chronograph movements, the caliber 11, in 1969, in collaboration with Breitling, Dubois Dépraz, and Hamilton-Buren. The caliber 12, introduced in 1971, offered a faster beat rate of 21,600 vph for improved precision. Following this, the caliber 15 was released in 1972 by Heuer and Breitling, featuring a KIF shock protection system and serving as a cost-effective alternative to its predecessors. This movement is what powers the Heuer Carrera we see today.
Condition:
Overall this example is in excellent condition. The case shows intact linear brushing and sharp edges.
The dial is spotless and original lume is intact on hands and dial with minimal patina. This is a very rare dial with lumed markers.
The movement has been checked by our watchmaker and is running strongly for its age losing 11 seconds per day with an amplitude of 254.
Specifications:
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 38.5mm width x 43.5mm height; 14.5mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Heuer, self-winding, caliber 15
Bracelet/Strap: premium calf leather strap with Heuer buckle.
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No
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