A truly stunning example of the Heuer Carrera 3647 T with 'Red Tachymetre' dial. Also known as the Carrera 45, the Carrera 3647 features a 45 minute register at the 3 o'clock position.
Heuer launched the Carrera line in 1963 with the goal of creating a sleek and highly legible chronograph. Named after the lethal Carrera Panamericana race through Mexico, the Heuer Carrera design would go onto become one of the most iconic watch designs of the 1960's.
The standout feature of all Carrera's is the dial; a lesson in clean and minimalist design. The reference 3647 T features a tachometer scale in beautiful red writing. The tachometer served as a way to record average speed in miles (or kilometres) per hour over a measured mile (or km). Instructions on its use from the 1963 Heuer chronograph brochure read as follows:
"Start the sweep second hand when passing the starting line and stop when passing the finish line of the measured mile (or km). The sweep hand will now point on the Tachometer graduation to the average speed in miles (or km) per hour."
The Carrera is housed in an elegant 36mm case and is powered by the 17-jewel Valjoux 92 manual wind movement.
This particular example is one of, if not, THE best example we've seen. The case remains unpolished and showing all the original lines of the case. The dial is close to perfect and still retaining strong colours throughout. Lume plots are complete and have taken on a wonderful colour as have the lume plots on the hands. The movement is serviced and in excellent condition. Finally the watch is fitted to a gorgeous leather racing strap and topped off with a Heuer "B buckle".
If you're looking for a Carrera 45 Ref.3647 T 'Red Tachy' to add to your collection you will be hard pushed to find a better example. With prices of examples in this condition showing no signs of slowing down, now is the time to purchase!