Why We Love It

No doubt about it, Heuer has created some iconic chronographs. Whether minimalist and manual like the Carrera or curvaceous like the cushion case Autavia, there’s a Heuer chrono for everyone, even those who want something that’s a little more off the beaten path. 

What we offer here is the Daytona—but unlike its more famous Rolex namesake, the Heuer Daytona is… well, something else entirely. Famous (infamous?) for its brushed steel case (with integrated bracelet, no less) and gorgeous blue dial, the Heuer Daytona resonates with '70s charm. While it might not have been as much of a success as the Rolex Daytona, it’s not too much of a stretch to say that the Heuer Daytona has all the makings of a classic.

This particular Daytona is a Reference 110.203B. The B in the reference number indicates the color of the dial, a stunning deep blue. With substantial wrist presence, this is a Heuer equipped for weekend cruising, no matter what decade you find yourself in.

And, driven by the venerable Calibre 12 Automatic movement, this Daytona is as horologically significant as it is fun to wear.

The Story

While the Rolex Daytona might be the most famous chronograph to bear that name, Heuer also released a watch named after the famous racecourse. Debuting in 1976, the Heuer Daytona was one of the last watches Heuer released that was powered by the Chronomatic Calibre 12 movement. Following the Daytona, all of Heuer’s chronographs would use the Valjoux 7750.

In creating the Daytona, Jack Heuer wanted something that could never be confused with Rolex’s—or for any other Heuer chronograph, for that matter. The case was crafted of brushed steel, 39mm like the automatic Carreras of the time, but the bracelet was integrated, creating a watch with soft curves and clean lines. The dial was available in either fumé or in a deep blue that gets darker toward the edges.

Produced from 1976 to 1980, the Daytona—like many of its competitors—fell victim to the Quartz Crisis and was discontinued. Fortunately, although it was gone, it was never forgotten. Nowadays it’s finding new life among vintage collectors who appreciate offbeat chronographs.