1960s Yellow Gold Heuer Carrera Chronograph Reference 2456S

Why This Watch Matters

This is one of the Heuer world's holiest of holy grails, a true living legend of horology – the solid gold, manually wound Carrera. You almost never find them, and when you do, they don't look like this.

The Full Story

The first Heuer Carrera was launched in 1963 and has become one of the most iconic vintage chronographs on the market. This example, a reference 2456s in yellow gold, is extremely hard to come by as yellow-gold Carreras were made in highly limited quantities. The watch you see here features a silvered dial (hence the “s” at the end of the reference number) and yellow-gold applied baton indexes and hands. One thing to note is the recessed engine-turned subsidiary dials really pop. The case is heavy and the angled lugs are thick and untouched. Also, this watch is powered by the renowned Valjoux 72 movement, the same used in Rolex Daytonas of the same period. This rare example won’t be around long, and this presents a chance to own a seldom seen, even less understood example of Heuer history.

The Fine Print

Maker: Heuer
Model: Carrera
Reference: 2456S
Year: 1960s
Case No: 834xx
Material: Yellow gold
Dimensions: diameter 36mm; thickness 12mm
Sapphire Crystal: No
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Valjoux 72
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Dark Brown Leather Racing Strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

This rare watch features a gorgeous silvered dial that is in impeccable condition with only a minor spot underneath the signature, which is only visible with a loupe. The indexes are complete and have no visible signs of aging. All of the tritium lume plots are worn down (some missing) but that is consistent with the watch’s age. The case is extremely honest with thick faceted lugs. The yellow gold has some signs of oxidation on the case back and underneath the lugs, further proving its honesty and lack of recent polishing.

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