Critical Disclosure: - IMPORTANT: This is an assembled watch using authentic Heuer parts from different sources that were not originally together from the factory. The dial appears to have been refinished/repainted. - While components are authentic Heuer parts, this timepiece has been assembled from elements that did not leave the Heuer factory as a complete unit. The dial, case, hands, and movement may originate from different models or production periods. Additionally, the dial shows strong evidence of having been refinished, which significantly impacts collectibility and value compared to a factory-original configuration.
Condition Assessment: - Overall Grade: C+ This vintage chronograph exhibits substantial wear consistent with a 70+ year old timepiece, including significant chrome plating loss on the case, a refinished dial, and general aging throughout.
Detailed Description: - Chrome-plated stainless steel with visible plating wear and loss - Two-pusher chronograph configuration (pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock) - Snap-on case back - Acrylic crystal - Black dial that appears to have been repainted/refinished - Applied gold-tone Arabic numerals at 12, 2, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 - Luminous hour markers and hands (aged) - Two subsidiary dials: running seconds at 9 o'clock, 30-minute totalizer at 3 o'clock - Tachymeter scale (BASE 1000) on outer perimeter
Movement: - Heuer Leonidas manual-wind column-wheel chronograph caliber - Heuer Leonidas-signed movement - Recently serviced (disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, and regulated) - Running accurately and all chronograph functions operational
Historical Context: The Heuer Leonidas movement represents an important chapter in Heuer's history. In 1964, Heuer merged with Leonidas, a Swiss movement manufacturer that had been producing high-quality chronograph calibers. Movements from this period were signed "Heuer Leonidas," reflecting this partnership before the company became TAG Heuer in 1985.
Operating Condition: - Movement recently serviced and keeping accurate time - All chronograph functions working properly (start, stop, reset) - Crown winds smoothly and sets time correctly - Fully operational
Who This Watch Is For Good fit if you: - Want an affordable introduction to vintage Heuer chronographs - Appreciate the mechanical charm of the Heuer Leonidas movement - Value functionality over collectibility - Don't mind refinished/restored components - Want a wearable vintage chronograph without the premium price
Not suitable if you: - Are building an investment-grade collection - Require fully original, untouched components - Seek maximum future resale value - Want a museum-quality collector's piece
