Heuer Solunar Ref. 279.603 "Tide Watch"

A stunning example of the Heuer Solunar Ref. 279.603, aka the "Tide Watch". Designed as a tool-watch to show the time of low and high tides over a 2 week period, today examples of the Heuer Solunar are few and far between. 

The Heuer Solunar 279.603 was first presented in 1976 as a wristwatch with an integrated tide indicator. After a short period of just 4 years, production came to an end in 1980. Despite its short run, the Solunar found favour among sailors, fishermen and hunters. Today its admired by collectors for its rarity and and unique design.

The upper crown is multifunctional. When pushed in it is used to wind the watch. The first position is used to set the date and the weekday where forward rotation changes the date disc and backward rotation changes the weekday.

Of interest, a clever feature of the movement allows setting of the weekday disk in either English or French! Once you have set the day of the week in the desired language, the following day of the week is automatically displayed in this language.

For an excellent run down of how the watch is used to indicate high and low tides, we'd highly recommend a read of Calibre 11's article on the Solunar.

The example we have here was purchased from the grandson of the original owner and is presented in overall excellent condition.

Condition report

 The dial remains in exceptional condition with a gorgeous deep blue at the centre lightening slightly towards the edges. The matching lume on the hands and dial have taken on pleasing cream colour. The imposing 45mm stainless steel case remains in excellent condition as does the bezel. The ETA calibre 2790-1 movement has just received a full service and is in excellent working condition. Finally the watch is fitted with a rubber strap that perfectly matches the feel of the watch.

The Heuer Solunar - a niche tool watch that oozes vintage charm

This fine and rare example would be an amazing addition to any collection, especially for those with a love of the sea. In the past six years of selling vintage watches this is the first example we've seen in the flesh and with a production run of only four years we don't expect to see many more. This is one very special watch, don't miss out on it as you may not have another chance!