For watch enthusiasts and motorsport fans alike, few timepieces carry the same legendary status as the Heuer Monaco worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film “Le Mans.” This December, one of these iconic watches will make its auction debut at Sotheby’s New York, offering collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of horological and cinematic history.
The Historic Significance of the Heuer Monaco
Launched in 1969, the Heuer Monaco was a groundbreaking timepiece that helped usher in a new era of watch design. As Geoff Hess, Sotheby’s Global Head of Watches, explains:
“The connection between cars and watches is well-known, but the reference 1133B encapsulates this union in a way unmatched by other timepieces. For enthusiasts of racing, McQueen, or vintage chronographs, this watch represents the ultimate addition to any collection—a true ‘end game’ piece.”
What set the Monaco apart was its innovative square, water-resistant case, brushed and polished finishes, and brutalist aesthetics. It was among the first commercially available automatic chronograph wristwatches, featuring the revolutionary Calibre 11 movement. While initially not a commercial success, its association with Steve McQueen and “Le Mans” cemented its status in popular culture.
The McQueen Connection
“Le Mans” was Steve McQueen’s love letter to motorsport. Unable to participate in racing events while filming other movies, McQueen founded Solar Productions to create cinematic masterpieces that captured the thrill of endurance racing. The film showcased the groundbreaking Porsche 917 in its now-iconic Gulf colors, with McQueen sporting a matching Gulf-striped racing suit and the blue-dialed Heuer Monaco.
This particular watch is one of just six Heuer Monaco models with blue dials sent to the “Le Mans” set. Of these six, only four were fitted with leather straps as worn by McQueen in the movie, making this example exceptionally rare.
A Storied Provenance
The journey of this specific Heuer Monaco is as fascinating as the watch itself. After filming, it was acquired by Bevan Weston, a young mechanic working on the set. Weston, who was part of the crew recommended by racing driver Derek Bell, would go on to work for McLaren and wear the Monaco during his time at the Indianapolis 500 in 1971.
For forty years, the watch remained in Weston’s possession before being sold to a private collector in 2010. Now, this piece of horological history is set to change hands once again.
The Auction and Exhibition
The Heuer Monaco will be offered as part of “Heuer Champions,” a curated selection of exceptional vintage Heuer chronographs celebrating the brand’s rich heritage and deep-rooted connection to motorsport. The auction will take place during Sotheby’s Important Watches sale on December 11, with an estimated value between $500,000 and $1 million.
Watch enthusiasts and collectors will have the opportunity to view this historic timepiece in person:
- August 14-17, 2024: RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction, Monterey, California
- December 5-10, 2024: Sotheby’s New York
The Legacy of the Heuer Monaco
While the original Monaco was not an immediate commercial success, its relaunch in 1997 under TAG Heuer proved to be a runaway hit. The model’s enduring popularity can be attributed to advertising campaigns featuring McQueen’s iconic image from “Le Mans.”
The Monaco’s influence extends beyond its own success, laying the foundation for the future of sports watches as we know them today. Its bold design and association with motorsport continue to inspire watch designers and enthusiasts around the world.
Conclusion
The auction of Steve McQueen’s Heuer Monaco represents a unique convergence of horology, motorsport, and cinema. For watch collectors, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of timekeeping history that embodies the golden age of both watchmaking and motor racing.
Whether you’re a serious collector or simply an admirer of fine timepieces, this auction is not to be missed. To learn more about the Heuer Monaco and its rich history, visit the official TAG Heuer website or Sotheby’s auction page.
