THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: HEUER
MODEL: 150.501
YEAR: c1978
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 39mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL(PVD)
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The 1960s and ’70s were a golden era for sports chronographs, with numerous iconic models emerging from historic manufacturers such as Rolex, Omega, Breitling, and Universal Genève. However, few would argue against Heuer being the king of utilitarian, motorsport-focused chronographs during this period. In particular, Heuer released an array of racing chronographs—including the Autavia, Carrera, Camaro, Monaco, and Monza—that remain iconic to this day.

The Heuer Monza was introduced in 1976, designed by Jack Heuer to celebrate Niki Lauda’s first Formula 1 World Championship with Ferrari in 1975. It is easily recognisable by its PVD-coated cushion-shaped case and striking red dial accents. Monzas were powered by either the Calibre 12 or Calibre 15 movements — with the Cal. 12 versions featuring two symmetrical registers, while the Cal. 15 examples display an asymmetrical layout.

Nearly 50 years later, the Monza remains one of our favourite Heuers from the era. They look especially cool when worn and enjoyed, with the stainless steel peeking through the PVD coating in places. This example remains in fantastic condition: the tritium lume plots are all intact and have aged to a rich creamy hue, providing wonderful contrast against the black dial and vivid red accents.

The movement has recently been serviced and is running perfectly at +1 s/d, 290 amplitude, with a 0.2 ms beat error. Vintage Heuers like this are incredibly cool and continue to represent outstanding value in the world of collectible chronographs.