Heuer Chronomatic Monaco Paintless Wonder Dial Reference 1133 Unpolished

The Heuer Monaco was introduced in 1969 with the first automatic chronograph movement, the calibre 11. Coupled by the association of Steve McQueen’s decision to wear the watch in the film ‘Le Mans’, the watch is nothing short of iconic.

This example is one of the most famous Heuer Monacos on the planet (outside of the numerous Steve McQueen Le Mans models). It is one of the earliest examples known Heuer Monaco Chronomatic reference 1133. It is the rare variant with the “Chronomatic” font and luminous earlier hand set. The dial has developed an incredibly beautiful patina with the brass dial reacting through the blue paint - hence the nickname “Paintless Wonder” Monaco. The watch dates to circa 1969.

The Heuer Monaco is actually quite a rare model and we are seeing more collectors recognize the reference 1133 as a staple within the vintage chronograph collection. This example is particularly special as it belongs to the monumental vintage Heuer collector and historian, Jeff Stein. The watch has been in Stein’s collection for 19 years and is one of his favorite watches of all time. For those looking for one of the earliest examples of a historically important model, this is a grail watch. The case appears to be unpolished. It is stainless steel and measures approximately 38mm x 40mm.

The watch does not come with a box and papers. We do not know the service history, but it is running well.

PRICE: $90,000 (Item SBUXYT5019)