Heuer introduced the Carrera in 1963, and it remains one of the brand’s most iconic vintage chronographs. Over the years, the Carrera evolved with changing design trends—from the classic round-case ref. 2447 of the 1960s to funkier 1970s models with tonneau-shaped cases and left-hand crowns.
The example here is a ref. 1553, featuring a stainless steel tonneau case and the caliber 15 automatic movement with a hidden micro-rotor. The watch features a striking champagne coloured dial, which sports a horizontal brushed finish and an eye-catching asymmetrical layout: running seconds at 9 o’clock, a 30-minute counter at 3, and a bold blue center stripe that ties the design together. A smokey slate-grey tachymeter scale frames the dial nicely.
The left-hand crown reflects Heuer’s pioneering work on automatic chronographs, beginning with the caliber 11 in 1969. The caliber 15, introduced in 1972, offered reliable performance with KIF shock protection and a more cost-effective build.
We’ve paired this watch with a black Shell Cordovan strap to complement the dial’s accents.
Heuer Carrera | rare | ref. 1553 from 1970s
BRAND: Heuer
MODEL: Carrera
REFERENCE: 1553
YEAR: early 1970s
MOVEMENT: Caliber 15 automatic movement
CASE DIMENSIONS: 38.5mm width x 43.5mm height; 14.5mm thickness
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
GLASS: Plexiglass
BRACELET/STRAP: New high quality Shell Cordovan Leather Strap
CLASP: Generic high quality pin buckle
BOX & PAPERS: None
TAX: Differential taxation according to §24 UStG
Movement: The watch is in authentic condition, featuring original luminous material and indices that have developed a pleasing patina. All chronograph functions are fully operational. It runs with a rate deviation of just -3 seconds per day, an amplitude of 230, and a beat error of 0—indicating excellent performance. The photos of the movement further highlight its well-preserved, near-new condition.
Dial: The dial is overall very clean and in excellent condition. The lume on both the dial and hands has aged to an attractive buttery yellow hue. All lume plots are nearly fully intact, showing only minimal signs of degradation.
Glass: There are minor scratches on the crystal, but there is a more prominent mark above two o'clock register.
Hands: Hour markers and hands remain in a very good condition and have developed almost none patina.
Case: Overall, this Carrera is in very good, sincere shape. It has most likely been polished before. The case has only minor scratches. A few scratches remain on the case's back from the removal of the strap. The numbers between the two sets of lugs are easily readable.
Crown: Heuer signed dial, case, movement, and crown.
