47 Heuer An iconic and nice Heuer Monaco chronograph reference 73633G in stainless steel

Estimate: €7,000 –⁠ 14,000

Model: Monaco
Material: Stainless steel
Reference N°: 73633G
Year: 1970's
Case N°: 165780
Caliber: 7736
Bracelet: leather strap
Dimensions: 40mm
Signed: Dial, Case and movement

Heuer brand has been founded by Edouard Heuer in 1860 and immediately he developed a significant number of innovative patents such as a keyless, crown-operated winding system for pocket watches or patents for an oscillating pinion mechanism. The company’s growth allowed for increased research and development and in 1916 released the Micrograph, the most accurate stopwatch at the time. From that moment on, Heuer continued to implement researches on racing watches and above all his relationship with the automotive world. In the 1930s, they began the production of chronographs specially designed for pilots. In 1969 was launched the Monaco reference 1133 as part of a line of automatic chronographs. The Monaco might be one of the most recognizable watches of the 20th century, and was equipped with a self-winding caliber 11, becoming the first automatic chronograph ever produced. Popular with racers and enthusiasts alike from its launch became famous because Steve McQueen wore a Monaco in the car racing movie “Le Mans” but above all for the unusual square-shaped case made by Piquerez. The Heuer Monaco featured in this post is a reference 73633 B. The Monaco 73633 was the third Monaco to be released three years after the first version when Heuer introduced it in 1972. Unlike earlier models, this version has a third sub-dial in place of the date dial above six o’clock. Another big change was the relocation of the crown from the left side of the watch to the right side between the two pushers. The “B” in 73633 B denotes the dial is blue, rather than “G” which is reserved for the grey dial pieces like the present watch. The stainless steel square case is preserved in good overall condition, the dial as well is still extremely nice and contemporary to modern times, the red accents make a perfect picture with the grey background. Synonymous with the world of racing but also with the elegant environment, this is one of the most ionic and important in Heuer roster and beautiful piece to own. For a similar model please see lot 178 in this auction.