Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Monaco, Jul 21, 2021
LOT 35
Heuer
Ref. 1550 SG, military-type, fly-back “retour en vol” chronograph, minute counter, black dial, calibre Valjoux 230; “Bundeswehr”, so-called “The Bund”; stainless steel
Ref. 1550 SG, military-type, fly-back “retour en vol” chronograph, minute counter, black dial, calibre Valjoux 230; “Bundeswehr”, so-called “The Bund”; stainless steel
EUR 2,300 - 4,600
USD 2,800 - 5,500 / HKD 21,300 - 42,500
Sold: EUR 2,860
Stainless steel, manual-winding, tonneau-shaped, military-type pilot’s wristwatch, water-resistant with case-back screwed by four screws, black colour dial with subsidiary seconds at 9 and two horological complications:
• Fly-back “retour en vol” 1/5 second chronograph (activated by the two round-shaped push-pieces)
• Half-instantaneous 30-minute counter (subsidiary dial at 3 o’clock)
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AA |
Very good |
Case: 3-8 |
Good Slightly scratched |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 3-55-01 |
Good Luminous material reapplied HANDS Original |
Brand Heuer, La Chaux-de-Fonds
Reference 1550 SG
Year circa 1970-1980
Case No. 8 471 (by Heuer-Leonidas S.A.)
Bracelet green tissue strap
Buckle stainless steel buckle
Diameter 42.8 mm. (bezel)
Caliber 13’’’ (based on Valjoux 230 by Reymond Frères, Les Bioux, Vallée de Joux)
Dimensions 51.5 x 43.1 mm
Signature dial and case
Notes
Heuer, “Bundeswehr”, so-called “The Bund”
The Bundeswehr has been the national army of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) since 1955.
This chronograph was used in the pilot squadrons of the FRG Air Force. This watch was very much appreciated by pilots of all nationalities, particularly those of NATO, and many of them, both American and foreign, stationed on German bases, wanted to be equipped with it.
A small series of this chronograph was produced for this purpose, without the mention “3 H” on the dial (at 6 o’clock), and sold in the PX boutiques of the NATO air bases in Germany.
Affectionately nicknamed “The Bund”, in reference to its original assignment, this chronograph was a much appreciated bargaining chip for the military forces engaged in the Red Flag exercises and between 1970 and 1980 many meritorious pilots were awarded it.
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*a 20% import VAT is due on the hammer price with buyer's premium, plus 150€ for termination of temporary export, at buyer's expense, only if it is delivered within the EU