The last known Heuer Monaco worn by Steve McQueen during the filming of the 1971 movie Le Mans is heading to auction at Sotheby’s in New York on December 11, 2024. The watch, a reference 1133B, is expected to fetch between $1 million and $2 million, according to Sotheby’s official auction listing. This specific timepiece was gifted to the film’s chief mechanic, Haig Alltounian, by McQueen himself at the conclusion of production.
Why This Heuer Monaco Is Historically Significant
The Heuer Monaco 1133B holds a distinct position in horological history as one of the first automatic chronograph watches and a pioneer of the square-cased design. During the filming of Le Mans, McQueen insisted on wearing the Monaco to mirror the gear worn by Swiss racing driver Jo Siffert. According to Sotheby’s, this particular watch is the final of three units used during production that remains in private hands. The other two examples have been previously accounted for, with one currently residing in the TAG Heuer museum collection.
Provenance and the "To Haig" Inscription
The watch is distinguished by a personalized engraving on the caseback that reads, "TO HAIG LE MANS 1970." This inscription serves as a direct link to the film set. As documented by the New York Times, Haig Alltounian received the watch after McQueen asked him to check the watch’s movement. When Alltounian attempted to return it, McQueen insisted he keep it, citing the mechanic’s instrumental role in keeping the film’s Porsche 917 and Ferrari 512 race cars operational. The watch has remained with Alltounian for over five decades, providing an unbroken chain of custody that significantly bolsters its market value.
Market Context and Previous Sales
The market for "McQueen-associated" timepieces remains highly competitive. In 2020, a separate Heuer Monaco worn by McQueen sold for $2.2 million at Phillips, setting a record for the brand.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reference | Heuer Monaco 1133B |
| Movement | Calibre 11 (Automatic) |
| Provenance | Gifted to Haig Alltounian |
| Estimated Price | $1,000,000 – $2,000,000 |
| Auction Date | December 11, 2024 |
While the Phillips sale featured a watch with significant screen time, the Sotheby’s lot offers a unique "behind-the-scenes" provenance. Collectors generally value the personal connection to the film’s production crew, which provides a different narrative than pieces used exclusively for promotional photography or screen captures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there other Heuer Monacos from the film?
Yes. There were three watches used during production. One is held by the TAG Heuer Museum, one was sold at auction in 2020, and this unit is the final one to reach the public market.
What makes the 1133B model special?
The 1133B was one of the first watches to feature the Calibre 11, a modular automatic chronograph movement developed by Heuer, Breitling, and Hamilton-Buren. Its square, water-resistant case was considered a radical departure from the round chronographs of the late 1960s.
Will this watch be functional?
According to the Sotheby’s catalog, the watch is being sold as a collector’s item. Potential bidders are advised to review the condition report regarding the movement’s current state, as is standard practice for high-value vintage horology.