Long before the Carrera, Autavia and Monaco established Heuer as one of the defining names in motorsport timing, the manufacture built its reputation on elegant, manually wound chronographs produced during the 1930s and 1940s. These early references combined clean, highly legible dials with some of Switzerland's finest chronograph movements, creating purpose-built instruments that today represent the foundations of Heuer's remarkable history. Produced in comparatively small numbers, surviving examples have become increasingly sought after as collectors look beyond the brand's later icons.

Dating to the late 1940s, thisc hrono is one of the most distinctive chronographs of the period. Nicknamed the "Big Eyes" for its oversized subsidiary registers, the watch delivers exceptional legibility while maintaining beautifully balanced proportions within its 35.5mm stainless steel case. At its heart is the celebrated Valjoux 22, a column-wheel chronograph movement widely regarded as one of the finest hand-wound calibres of the era. Together with its elegant applied gilt hour markers, feuille hands and generously domed acrylic crystal, the reference 403 perfectly captures the refined character of post-war Swiss chronograph design and stands as an important precursor to the watches that would later define Heuer's golden age.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows surface scratches and light nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back has surface scratches and retains a well-defined stamped serial number. The winding crown shows signs of wear. The dial is excellent, with some light surface marks, while the hands remain clean. It is fitted with a black leather rally-style strap and a later Heuer steel pin buckle.

Please note: The watch ticks at the time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.