Transitional Tag/Heuer Chronograph Ref. 510.501/12

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Heuer was one of the earliest watchmakers to test out the use of special coatings like PVD on its cases and bracelets. The special coatings used in the early days were often black PVD (including the famous blacked-out "Dark Lord" Monaco from the mid-1970s). In the 1980s, Heuer continued experimenting by adding different colored-finishes, such as pewter, black, as seen here and olive as well. These coatings were known to wear and scratch, so the examples in well-preserved condition are higher in demand today. 

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This particular example is a transitional model. It was produced during the early days of the TAG takeover and it has a different mixture of features that justify the transitional characterisation. The exact reference number is 510.501/12, with the /12 denoting the use of the lemania 5012 movement which is basically the same as the 5100 with the omission of the 24h subdial and slower ticking rate of 21600 beats per hour. Tag Heuer decided to tweak the movement in order to reintroduce the 24h hour subdial. At the time TAG received the helms, there were still some 510 cases and some 5012 movements lying around in the factory and TAG decided to put them to good use.

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These models can be described as transitional since they are signed as TAG Heuer on the caseback and dial but they feature the Famous Heuer shield on the crown and the bracelet clasp. I really don’t know why but we just love these small quirks. In a way, they tell us the story of the company at the time.

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During its short life and due to Heuer’s connection with motor sports, the 510 was not only used by different race drivers but it was also selected by the Kenyan Air Force as a formally issued pilot watch. It even became a Cinema star and can be seen in the popular ‘Delta Force’ movie. These facts gave it instant recognition and elevated it to its current cult status.

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This particular example is in outstanding condition.

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The Specs