The Heuer name has been synonymous with racing since the introduction of the Carrera in the '60s and the engagements with Ferrari in the '70s. How has the influence of racing been preserved in the collections throughoutthe years?
When Jack Heuer helmed the brand during its prime, he ensured that the tone of the Carrera watches was preserved. He related to motor-racing with a passion. In fact, one of the very first cars in Switzerland was owned by Jack Heuer. The iconic vintage models we love today were all moulded by him -- the Monaco, Monza, Autavia, Silverstone, and especially the Carrera.
Heuer was always associated with racing from the beginning. When the brand was with Ferrari, Heuer gave each Formula 1 driver a special watch. It was a full 18K yellow-gold cased Carrera -- the 1158CHN. It was a very beautiful piece with black registers against a gold dial, providing high legibility. The back was engraved with their [Swiss Replica Watches] name, making it a unique andpersonalpiece.
For me, the Carrera is a true racing icon. At that time, the pieces were designed to measure incrementally smaller times. The design was very intentional, in terms of the functions, the horns of the lugs, and how the case was designed. Most of the new models inthe Carrera line have stayed true to the 1963 case.
Most collectors of the Carrera are very familiar with vintage cars. Beyond the history of this watch, they also relate a car engine to a watch movement. These are similar in a way that they are all made up of small parts which are very important to work altogether.
My personal favourite is the Monaco Calibre 11 -- otherwise known as the "Steve McQueen watch". There are not many watches out there as storied as the McQueen Monaco, but do you believe that it's crucial for vintage timepieces to carry their own stories so that they're more than just an "old"piece?
We need to remember that these watches didn't necessarily start out how[the way] they're marketed today. The collections from the '50s and the '60s are very collectable because of how they were made. Their design is reminiscent of the dashboards found in vintage cars,Richard Mille Replica which in turn has also created collectors of such convertibles. Yes, the Monaco is probably the most successful because of Steve McQueen but back then, the watches were made simply to be used. The vintage scene is very interesting because it's always shifting. Now, watches from the era of the '40s and '80s are starting to look upin the market.
