As watch collectors, we often talk about the transitionary period for watchmakers that distinctly differentiate vintage models from Neo-vintage and modern watches. Commonly this change begins sometime in the 80's. Whether it be the introduction of new luminescent material, dial materials, movement calibers, there's always a way to tell apart vintage models from their more modern counterparts. None are more apparent and easy to differentiate than Heuer and TAG Heuer models.

I mean, the difference is obvious, right? It's written right there on the dial and the change happened at 1985, a time when modern materials and production techniques started being used. Well, you'd be almost right.

In 1979, Heuer was going through a tough time, the innovation of Quartz technology with its precision accuracy and affordable pricing was leaving Heuer's mechanical racing chronograph's in the dust. Jack Heuer, The president of Heuer at the time, saw an opportunity to introduce a new professional dive watch line using affordable quartz movements. Never did he think that such a line would completely revitalize the company.

This new series was cleverly named, the professional series. This new line of dive watches was a new deviation for the company that was know for chronographs but it completely brought company back to the top and became a brand staple.

Our watch came into the picture officially in 1984. Right before the acquisition of Heuer by Techniques d'Avant Garde (TAG) in 1985. This model, only had a year run of Heuer dials before transitioning to TAG Heuer, thus making it somewhat of a missing link among collectors. It is not known how many of these dials were actually made in 1984 but one can only assume few compared to the TAG Heuer dials that were in production from 1985 to the early 2000's. 

Picture from a 1984 Heuer catalog showing the new elegant line of professional dive watches - photo from OnTheDash.com

Not only is this watch rare but it is in like new condition with zero blemishes on the case and bracelet. Now is your chance to get something truly special.

The history of the Heuer brand is one deeply entrenched in the world of precision timekeeping, motorsports, and innovation. Founded by Edouard Heuer in 1860, the brand initially began as a small workshop in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Over the years, Heuer gained a reputation for crafting high-quality timepieces, particularly chronographs, which were used for a variety of applications including sports, aviation, and industry

In 1882, Heuer patented his first chronograph, a significant achievement that laid the groundwork for future innovations. The 1887 oscillating pinion, another of Heuer's inventions, revolutionized the chronograph, demonstrating the brand's commitment to technological advancement.

Into the 20th century, Heuer's contributions to watchmaking were pivotal in sports timing. The "Time of Trip" dashboard chronograph, introduced in 1911, was designed for automobiles and aircraft, showcasing Heuer's diversification into timing for various modes of transportation. In 1916, the Micrograph stopwatch, capable of measuring 1/100th of a second, set a new standard in precision, illustrating Heuer's mastery over time measurement.

The brand's involvement in sports, particularly motor racing, became more pronounced in the mid-20th century. The introduction of the Carrera watch in 1963, inspired by the Carrera Panamericana auto race, solidified TAG Heuer's connection with the racing world. The Monaco watch, launched in 1969 and later popularized by Steve McQueen, broke new ground with its square case and water resistance, becoming an icon of style and innovation.

A significant turning point in the brand's history came in 1985 when TAG (Techniques d'Avant Garde) acquired Heuer, creating TAG Heuer. This partnership emphasized the brand's strong association with Formula 1 racing and marked a new phase focused on luxury lifestyle branding. The acquisition by LVMH in 1999 further integrated TAG Heuer into the world of luxury goods, expanding its global reach and innovation in watchmaking.

• Model: Heuer 2000 Professional

• Reference: 973.006

• Year: 1984

• Dial Color: Black

• Style: Diver

• Bracelet: Original Signed Stainless Steel Bracelet

• Sizing: Fits up to 8" Wrist

• Box: No

• Papers: No

• Other Accessories: None

This watch was acquired directly from the original owner who was a watchmaker for Heuer back in the 80's. He bought it for himself during a clearance sell at the jewelry store he was working at in 1985.

The condition of this watch is like new with only a blemish on the bezel between 12 and 1 o'clock. This can be seen in pictures.

We did have a new coil placed and had the movement serviced. Luckily, the original owner had the battery taken out back when it first died and didn't have it replaced since it was never used. The watch is accurate and functioning as it should. 

• Case Size: 37.0mm

• Lug Width: 20.0mm

• Lug to Lug: 43.8mm

• Thickness: 8.8mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Bezel Material: Stainless Steel

• Bezel Insert Material: Aluminum

• Case Back Material: Stainless Steel

• Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel

• Crystal: Mineral Crystal

• Luminescence: Tritium (Original)

• Manufacturer: ETA

• Caliber: ETA 955.114

• Country: Switzerland

• Movement Type: Quartz w/ Date Indicator

• Jewels: 7

• Battery Life: ~2 Years