Heuer
RFA vintage fliegerchrono - Flyback

Vintage pilot watch Heuer Fliegerchronograph 1550-SG with flyback function 3H. Manual-winding flyback chronograph from 1963. A Cold War aviation chronograph classic. This watch was issued to Luftwaffe (West German Air Force) pilots. Highly appreciated by aviators of the time, this chronograph became so popular that many American and foreign pilots stationed on German NATO bases requested to be issued one.

A small production run of this chronograph was released without the “3H” marking for that specific purpose, and sold in PX shops on NATO airbases in West Germany. Affectionately nicknamed “The Bund” in reference to its original deployment, this chronograph was a highly prized trading item among military personnel during Red Flag exercises. Between 1970 and 1980, many distinguished pilots were awarded one. It could also be seen on the wrists of racing drivers during the 1970s.

Powered by a hand-wound 13-ligne column wheel flyback chronograph movement, the Valjoux 230, beating at 18,000 vibrations per hour. It offers a 48-hour power reserve and is protected by a soft iron antimagnetic dome made of “Maillechort” under the caseback. The case is 43 mm wide, made of stainless steel. Its matte black “bi-compax” dial with white markings is exceptionally legible due to its clean layout and generous proportions. Two clearly legible subdials allow for 30-minute chronograph timing (right) and small seconds (left). White markings with railroad-style outer tracks, and hour numerals enhanced with tritium. Central baton-style hands are painted white with luminous inserts; the chronograph seconds hand is arrow-tipped.

This collectible watch is rugged, comfortable, and especially well-suited to motorsport use thanks to its prominent winding crown and ideally placed pushers. The bidirectional rotating bezel, marked with a highly visible triangular indicator, perfectly complements the set of features making it an excellent aviation or rally navigation watch.

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