1980s Heuer Pasadena Chronograph (Ref. 750.501) 'Factory PVD'

Founded in 1860 in St-Imier, Switzerland, Heuer remains one of the most respected and beloved vintage brands in the watch world. Having put out iconic models like the Carrera, Autavia, Monaco, and Camaro, the brand's pentagonal logo became a calling card for quality and auto racing-worthy design. But they put out a lot of other, equally cool pieces that never got quite the notoriety of their bigger siblings.

Case in point, this Pasadena ref. 750.501, a short-run reference that was introduced just a few years before Heuer was acquired by

Techniques d'Avant Garde and became TAG Heuer. With a name that bucks the brand's typical trend of naming their watches after the world's most famous auto races, it instead harkens to one of southern California's most idyllic cities, just outside the hustle and bustle of downtown LA. Its exceptional, honestly worn PVD case and bracelet—which call to mind the iconic Porsche Design Chronograph 1—and large, highly legible dial design make this an immediately attractive piece, and a great way to dive into the world of Heuer while still keeping it a little left of the proverbial dial.

SPECS

Stock # HURPAS750501
Brand Heuer
Style Pasadena
Model 750.501
Serial N/A
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black
Millimeters 40
Bracelet TAG Heuer Factory PVD Bracelet
 

CASE & BRACELET

The unpolished case features its original factory PVD finishing and displays minimal wear from age with crisp and fine edges throughout. The case retains its original PVD finished pump pushers and unsigned crown. The case back retains all of the factory finishing and engravings in crisp condition. The original and transitional TAG Heuer PVD bracelet shows some rubbing wear to the PVD finish on the links and clasp, but is in otherwise great condition, showing minimal stretch in the 21 links. The bracelet will fit up to an 8-inch wrist and features a diver's extension in the clasp.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black dial is in virtually flawless condition showing no damage or notable age. The tritium lume plots have taken on a vintage-perfect golden yellow patina. The original tritium hands have aged to a shade lighter than the dial, and the neon orange seconds hand adds a pop of color. Both the dial and hands exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.

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