Launched in 1969, the Heuer Monaco was one of the first automatic chronograph wristwatches available in the market. Along with the self-winding Zenith El Primero, these chronograph watches were at the forefront of innovative design and technology of the 1960s and 1970s. The oversized square-shaped case, manufactured by Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA), with left-handed winding and setting crown were unique features designed by Jack Heuer, and while a completely new concept at the time, today this model has become an icon known for its contemporary look and feel. The watch gained notoriety when Steve McQueen wore an example in the classic racing film “Le Mans”.

The present example features a rare and hardly ever seen transitional dial, made even more desirable due to its unpolished case. The very first examples of the model featured the wording “Chronomatic” at the top of the dial with the “Monaco” signature at the bottom. Early on, the Monaco’s dial layout changed and “Monaco” was moved to the top, with the wording “Automatic Chronograph” added to the bottom. The “transitional” dial of the present lot stands out with its dynamic midnight blue color with brushed finish that yields a myriad of colors with different lighting angles. It is fitted with early polished stainless steel hands with square-tipped ends, compared with the polished steel hands with triangular red tipped hands seen on slightly later examples. The mid-20th century is widely considered the Golden Age of chronograph wristwatches, and this uniquely designed Monaco is an exceptional example for the discerning collector.