Heuer has long been a go-to brand for enthusiasts of vintage, but many collectors turn to certain models as touchstones. More often than not, those models tend to fall into the Autavia or Carrera families. These watches rank as some of the most desired vintage watches out there today, and have become nothing short of iconic among collectors—particularly the Carrera.

But the Carrera was just one in a long line of chronographs that Heuer released, with a history stretching back to the 1890s. Indeed, when it comes to making chronographs, Heuer was both productive and proficient. One need not delve too deep to find a watch that’s worthy of consideration.

Among these, those produced during the 1940s and 1950s are of particular interest.

This decade was a period of great growth for the manufacture. The influence of the Second World War heavily affected watch designs, and it could still be felt in the post-war years. Freed from military contracts, many manufactures—Heuer included—were able to apply what they learned during the war years on watches that they produced for civilians.

With sturdy 'waterproof' cases and robust internals, these watches are the aesthetic forebears of the Carrera; moreover, this similarity has led collectors to refer to them as “pre-Carreras.”

This particular “pre-Carrera” brims with mid-century design flair. The gilt tachymeter and telemeter stand out sumptuously against the black dial, and the feuille hands add a touch of elegance. However, the sturdy steel case, pump pushers and luminous Arabic numerals give the watch a sporting spirit that makes it the perfect choice for an incredibly wearable chrono.