Heuer Chronograph 'Economy Model'

Why We Love It

When it comes to vintage Heuer, the Monacos, Autavias, and Carreras tend to hog the spotlight. 

And while those watches certainly hold their well deserved places in history, there is a deeper well of fascinating watches that predate them- some by just a few years- and show the lineage and design language that led to the creation of icons. 

Case in point- this chronograph was a standard model in the Heuer collection - meaning it was not part of a named series. The 36mm straight lug case shares the same proportions as those of the Carrera. The matte black reverse panda dial is sporty yet balanced, having aged gracefully with the slightest hint of tropicalization, and shows the through line from mid-century aesthetic to the Carreras that would follow. Furthermore, powered by a manually winding Valjoux movement, it becomes something of a head scratcher as to why this watch commands such a reasonable price when compared to other pieces. 

But hey, we're not going to look a gift watch in the... dial? 

Essentially, this is an opportunity to own a Carrera, but for a fraction of the price! 

The Story

Heuer is an old brand with a history spanning a century, but truly did not hit its stride until the years immediately before and following the Second World War. It was a period of great growth for the manufacture—freed from the privations of the war, the company was able to increase production. But the war’s influence was felt in other ways.

The restrictions put on precious metals during the war, as well as the necessity of fulfilling military contracts, heavily affected watch designs. That influence could still be felt in the post-war years. Once freed from military contracts, many manufactures—Heuer included—were able to apply what they learned during the war years on watches that they produced for civilians.

With sturdy 'waterproof' cases and robust internals, these watches are the aesthetic forebears of the Carrera. Moreover, this similarity has led collectors to refer to them as “pre-Carreras.” With large steel cases and robust mechanical movements, they have stood the test of time and will continue to do so for many years to come.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.