THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: HEUER
MODEL: 3147N
YEAR: 1968
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: MANUAL WIND
The year 1963 saw the birth of two of the most iconic sports chronographs: the Rolex Daytona and the Heuer Carrera. Unlike Rolex, which is known for its slow-and-steady design evolution (a 6265 from 1988 and a 6239 from 1963 are largely the same watch), Heuer introduced far more variations of the Carrera, each with distinct design elements. While Rolex focused on improving the waterproofness and robustness of the Daytona, Heuer placed greater emphasis on legibility and functionality when refining the Carrera.
In 1966, Heuer released the reference 3147 “Dato,” the first Carrera to feature a date function. The initial execution had symmetrical double registers, similar to the Carrera 45, with the date window positioned at 12 o’clock—earning it the nickname “Dato 12.” While visually striking, it suffered from a fundamental design flaw: when reset to zero, the chronograph seconds hand obscured the date window. A few sketches—and perhaps a few drinks—later, the second execution of the 3147 was born: the Dato 45.
The present example is the rarer black-dial version of the Dato 45, reference 3147N. It features a date window at 9 o’clock and a single white register (the minute totaliser) at 3 o’clock. The result is arguably one of the quirkiest and most distinctive designs in the Carrera lineup. It also represents the pinnacle of Jack Heuer’s minimalist, legibility-driven design ethos—so minimal, in fact, that it omits even a running seconds hand.
The watch has been preserved in fantastic condition. The matte black dial is spotless, and the white elements are largely free from tarnish, which is rare for this model. There are only a few very minor marks on the sub-dial. All markers remain intact, as does the lume on the hands. The case is extremely strong and well preserved.
This is easily one of the best Heuers ever made—and an insanely cool watch to wear on the wrist