Why This Watch Matters An excellent example of Heuer’s deep heritage with timing sporting events, this pocket chronograph comes off as sporty as a pocket watch can. The Full Story Heuer, from the beginning, was always known for its timing instruments. The brand's founder, Edouard Heuer, patented a keyless winding system via the crown in 1869. Then, in 1887, he patented the "oscillating pinion" for a stopwatch design, which allows the crown to act as the push button to start and stop the chronograph function. Coming from a rich history in innovation, this Heuer single-button chronograph is housed in a 50mm stainless steel case. It was likely produced as a precise, sport timing instrument with legibility at the forefront of its design. The large black painted Arabic numerals, separated from the center of the dial by a concentric circle divider, along with a beautifuly silvered finish of the minute track maximize visibility, breaking the large dial up so the wearer can glean information at a glance. The 30-minute register with three-minute markers at 12 o'clock and the running seconds register at six o'clock are decorated with concentric circles and railroad minute tracks to make reading of the elapsed time a breeze. Overall, the dial is just full of great details. A "squashed" Heuer logo is used in the 12 o'clock sub register. In addition, the two tone silvered finish is stunning, playing with the light at different angles. The blued steel hands, especially the hour and minute leaf hands, make an elegant finish to this tool watch. The chronograph function is operated by a single button within the crown at the top. This configuration keeps everything simple. Without looking at the watch, you can start, stop, and reset, all by pushing the same button. If there are purpose built sport watches that are still under the radar, it is pocket watches, such as this Heuer. In fact, the larger format of 50mm actually allows for the beautiful features to be even more at the forefront and improves overall legibility. This is not only a functional timekeeping device but also a gorgeous precision instrument that could make timing your mundane chores or egg poaching infinitely more exciting. The Fine Print Maker: HeuerModel: Single Button ChronographReference: N/AYear: Circa 1940sCase No: 143554; Movement Number: 143818Material: Staybrite steelDimensions: 50mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: NoCaliber: Heuer, manual-wind, chronograph movementBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Heuer pocket chronograph is in great and honest vintage condition. The case shows some light scratches with some concentrated in the area around where the caseback opens, from the opening of the case over the years. The bow on the top is slightly bent and swivels back and forth as it should. The onion crown at 12 o'clock acts as the setting mechanism for the hands and also for using the chronograph. The silver dial is ingeniously two-toned with the large minute track and two sub registers shimmering in certain lights. The dial has aged to a soft patina, and there are some minor spots throughout. There is some light wear around the outer edges of the dial and the registers. There are some minor scratches and smudging on the register areas with concentric circles. The painted numerals and hash marks, even in the outermost scales, are well-preserved. The blued steel hands have retained a rich mid-tone blue, which pops beautifully against the dial.
Related
Related
Related
Related