THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: HEUER
MODEL: 7764
YEAR: 1969
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND
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 Geneve. However, few would argue against Heuer being the king of utilitarian, sports-focused chronographs during this time. While racing chronographs like the Autavia, Carrera, Camaro, Monaco, and Monza are what Heuer is most famous for, the brand also introduced a variety of chronograph models tailored for other professions, from engineers to physicians.
In 1968, Heuer released the ‘Skipper,’ a chronograph specifically designed for yachting racers. The first Skipper, Ref. 7754, was housed in a 7753 Carrera case and featured an unmistakable metallic blue dial with light green sub-registers, paying tribute to Intrepid’s defense of the America’s Cup the previous year. Nicknamed the ‘Skipperera,’ the Ref. 7754 was produced for only a year and has since become one of the most collectible Heuers (or any sports chronographs) ever made. With fewer than 20 examples known to have survived, well-preserved pieces often fetch upwards of £50,000.
One reason for the Skipperera’s rarity is that the Carrera case was arguably ill-suited for yachting due to its relatively poor waterproofing. As a result, in 1969, Heuer introduced the model we are presenting here: Ref. 7764, the second execution of the Skipper. The Ref. 7764 borrowed the Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) supplied Autavia Compressor case (Ref. 7763), featuring a ‘snap-on’ case back and a waterproof guarantee of up to 300 feet. Its dial and running seconds register are matte black, serving as the perfect backdrop for the bright orange chronograph second hand and the oversized tri-colour red, white, and blue ‘Regatta’ register. The countdown recorder helped skippers time their boat’s approach to the race start line, using signals provided by the race organiser via a series of horns and coloured flags in five-minute intervals. The contrasting colours ensured superb legibility, even as the boat rocked through the waves.
Like the Skipperera, the Ref. 7764 was produced for less than a year before Heuer transitioned the Skipper to a C-shaped case to accommodate the larger automatic movement. Most Ref. 7764 pieces were used for their intended purpose, and despite its improved design, few examples have survived to the present day—estimated by scholars to just 20-30. Finding one in the condition of this example is nearly impossible. The dial is pristine, with all lume plots intact and aged to a beautiful creamy patina. The tri-colour Regatta counter has retained its vibrant hues. The case appears to be unpolished, with the original crown, pushers, and bezel still present. We paired it with these black leather straps, but sourced the original Corfam straps and Heuer buckle in unworn condition to complete the package. The modified Valjoux 7730 movement has been fully inspected and runs impeccably at +2 s/d, 320 amplitude, with 0 beat error.
Here at Fathom, we are fortunate to handle many gorgeous vintage watches, but this is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular we have ever had the privilege of offering for sale.