Heuer Watches
Heuer was founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier, Switzerland. Following an acquisition by Techniques d'Avant Garde, Tag Heuer was formed in 1985, Heuer watches predating this merge are highly prized at auction. With the 'big three' of the most notable designs the Heuer Autavia, Heuer Monaco and the Heuer Carrera, Heuer has been associated with premium sporting events since the firm's inception.
Heuer Autavia Watches at Auction
Above: A reference 1163 'Jo Siffert' Heuer Autavia wristwatch, circa 1970.
The Heuer Autavia is certainly one of the most desirable watches at auction. Taking its name from its target markets, Aut from 'Automotive,' and Avia from 'Aviation,' the Heuer Autavia was introduced in 1962 under the newly appointed CEO Jack Heuer. Through its original design and later association with the legendary Jo Siffert, the Autavia is irrevocably linked with motor racing. Further Formula One champions Mario Andretti and Jochen Rindt wore manual-wind Autavias in the late 1960s. Indeed, the original Autavia was actually a timing instrument, specifically a a dashboard timer for rally cars. The defining feature of the Autavia chronograph was its rotating bezel, appearing in a huge array of designs over the years. The Heuer Autavia ran as one of the main watches offered by Heuer from 1962 until 1985 and a wide array of designs, calibres and bezels were introduced, all holding an enduring appeal for collectors worldwide.
Amongst the best performing Autavias at auction are the rare 'Big Sub' watches, with exaggerated and larger white subsidiary dials to 3, 6 and 9 against a black dial. These are early examples of the desirable reference 2446 and so can fetch upwards of £35,000 at auction. Other highly desirable references include 1163 as above - the striking Jo Siffert model, 3646 - a 1960s reference with monochromatic colour scheme, and 2446 featuring a blue and red unidirectional bezel.
Heuer Carrera Watches at Auction
Above: A ref. 73653S Heuer Carerra wristwatch, circa 1970.
The Carrera was launched in 1963, as a new chronograph within the Heuer range. Introduced as 'a new concept in chronographs,' the Carerra was named after the legendary Mexican car race, the Carrera Panamericana. The Carrera is Heuer’s design icon, purpose-built for racers who wanted the utmost in legibility under difficult racing conditions. Desiring a modern and easy-to-read dial, Jack Heuer proposed a timepiece with baton hour markers and painted outer minutes track. Cases began in the classic round shape, moving more towards a sleek tonneau shape case in the 1970s, as seen in the ref. 73653 example pictured above.
Perhaps the rarest and most desirable Carerras at auction are the sought after 'Skipperera' watches. Designed for use on yachts and feauring navy dials with yachting colours of orange and green to the subsidiary dials, these watches are ever-increasing in value under the hammer. As one would expect, the 18ct gold Carrera's, particularly reference 1158CH from the early 70s also fetch exceptional prices at auction.
Heuer Monaco Watches at Auction
The Heuer Monaco was launched in the 1970s. Developed with the brand new Calibre 11 movement in mind, as well as an idea from Jack to create something 'out-of-the-box.' The idea to create a square shape case, uniquely boasting waterproof qualities, and standing out from Heuers existing collections grabbed Jack, and the rest is history. Jack negotiated with exclusive rights over this square case by Piquerez which was then trademarked. Iconically, the Monaco was worn by Steve McQueen, the Monaco offered an outrageous circle-in-the-square design and bold colors that positioned Heuer for new series of racing watches in the 1970s.
Heuer Watch Auction Valuations
Heuer watches continue to rise in value at auction and are highly sought-after by a keen collecting base. For a free, confidential, and obligation free auction valuation, contact our specialist team. With years of experience selling Heuer watches at auction, our watch specialist will be able to advise of an auction estimate and dedicated marketing strategy to achieve the very best price possible for your watch.
We hold four dedicated Jewellery & Watches auctions each year and offer a free watch valuations service through both in-person and online 'virtual' valuations.
Contact our qualified specialist Liz Bailey to find out more.
Above: A Heuer Carrera in original 1970s red box, complete with racing checkerboard detailing.
