This Heuer Carrera 1553N from the 1970s has been preserved in a condition that is almost unimaginable today: unworn, in true New Old Stock (NOS) condition. Even the original red Heuer sticker still adorns the caseback. The fact that Heuer chronographs were once used as purely functional tools makes the exceptional condition of this piece all the more remarkable.
The striking blue dial with its silver horizontal bar — featuring the Carrera inscription — is referred to by collectors as the "Key Dial". Visually distinctive, it subtly nods to the iconic color scheme of Martini Racing through its fine orange and blue accents — a homage to the golden age of motorsport.
Inside beats the automatic Calibre 15 chronograph movement, known for its robust construction and its signature asymmetric dial layout, with the minute counter at 3 o’clock, small seconds at 10 and the date window at 6. The vivid orange central seconds hand adds a bold and sporty touch.
Another rare highlight: the original Gay Frères stainless steel bracelet. It is a collector’s item in its own right — rare, high-quality, and highly sought after.
As this watch has remained unworn for decades, it qualifies as a so-called "Safe Queen". As expected for a timepiece in such original condition, the movement currently displays a reduced amplitude — a perfectly normal finding in unworn vintage watches. Should the future owner wish to wear the watch regularly, we recommend a cleaning of the movement. Please feel free to contact us for further details.
This chronograph is far more than just an object — it is a portal to an era when timekeeping was still intertwined with gasoline, leather, and adrenaline. Finding a Carrera in this state is close to impossible — it was never in the race, but it's ready for victory.
Condition report
Dial: excellent condition – original luminous material – light patina - signed with "Heuer Automatic Chronograph swiss".
Case: stainless steel cushion case – no signs of wear, slight storage marks – original red Heuer sticker on the back – sharp edges, intact lines – intact numbers between the lugs – original fluted chrono pushers – original Heuer crown.
Movement: Automatic Heuer caliber 15 - values on the timegrapher: rate: +22s/day, amplitude: 195, beat error: 0.5.
Bracelet: original Gay-Frères stainless steel bracelet in mint condition.
Serial number: 293xxx
Int.Exe.: 95340