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Lot Essay
The present ref. 1133B is offered with its original Heuer tube bracelet and box. It is a fine example of the iconic Steve McQueen chronograph wristwatch. The watch gained popularity through the celebrated movie “Le Mans” in which Steve McQueen wears a Heuer Monaco 1133B caliber 11 driving its 917 Porsche.
The Monaco was introduced 50 years ago in 1969 and was the first square-cased and water-resistant automatic chronograph wristwatch. The very first series was fitted with the automatic calibre 11 movement and a metallic blue dial with white registers. During the course of production, the calibre 11 movement was quickly upgraded to the calibre 11-I featuring a number of modifications to improve reliability. During this time the dial of the 1133 also went through changes, from the metallic finish of early examples that had a tendency to fade over time, to the more familiar matte blue finish as displayed here.
With its avant-garde design, the typical 1970s coloured dial and the unique recognition factor, the "Monaco" has become a highly coveted collectors watch.
The Monaco was introduced 50 years ago in 1969 and was the first square-cased and water-resistant automatic chronograph wristwatch. The very first series was fitted with the automatic calibre 11 movement and a metallic blue dial with white registers. During the course of production, the calibre 11 movement was quickly upgraded to the calibre 11-I featuring a number of modifications to improve reliability. During this time the dial of the 1133 also went through changes, from the metallic finish of early examples that had a tendency to fade over time, to the more familiar matte blue finish as displayed here.
With its avant-garde design, the typical 1970s coloured dial and the unique recognition factor, the "Monaco" has become a highly coveted collectors watch.