Heuer Camaro 7220 Valjoux 72 Chronograph, circa 1969

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

Vintage Heuer Camaro 3 Register Chronograph Black Dial Model Ref: 7220 - Heuer - Leonidas S.A Calibre Valjoux 72 - 17j The Camaro 7220 was undoubtedly the mainstay of the range throughout production. Named after the Chevrolet Camaro, an American muscle car used as the pace car at the Indy 500 in 1967 and 1969, it helped establish Heuer in the US market. The 7220 was the first Camaro model released, running for a short period from c.1968-1972. The '7220' reference number is derived from the Valjoux 72 movement which powered this model. It is instantly distinguishable from other models due to its 3 sub-dial registers. What’s On Offer Here we have a particularly handsome Heuer Camaro Reference 7220 three-register chronograph, dating from approximately 1969, featuring a striking black dial, stainless-steel cushion case and the legendary manually wound Valjoux 72 movement. This is a wonderfully evocative example of Heuer's late-1960s chronograph design, combining purposeful functionality with a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from the company's more familiar Carrera and Autavia models. The 37mm stainless-steel case features the Camaro's characteristic cushion-shaped profile, with beautifully brushed surfaces, polished chamfered edges and short, flat-ended lugs. Measuring approximately 44mm lug-to-lug and 12.5mm thick, it offers a substantial wrist presence while retaining the balanced proportions of a classic vintage chronograph. The radial brushing across the broad bezel is particularly attractive, contrasting beautifully with the polished case edges. On the right-hand side sit the two chronograph pushers, positioned above and below the signed winding crown. The case displays marks of wear consistent with its age, retaining a pleasing vintage appearance. Of course, the real attraction is that fabulous black three-register chronograph dial. A vibrant orange tachymeter scale runs around the outer edge, providing a striking contrast against the black background and finely printed white minute track. The dial features applied baton hour markers with luminous plots, accompanied by dark, luminous-filled main hands and a slender white central chronograph seconds hand. Three recessed subsidiary registers provide the classic Valjoux 72 layout: 3 o'clock: 30-minute chronograph counter 6 o'clock: 12-hour chronograph counter 9 o'clock: Running seconds Each register features crisp white markings and a contrasting white hand, ensuring excellent legibility against the black dial. The CAMARO signature sits proudly above the historic Heuer shield beneath 12 o'clock, providing a wonderful reminder of the watch's motorsport-inspired origins. The dial remains in very good condition, displaying the character expected of a vintage chronograph from this period. Beneath the domed crystal sits one of the most celebrated chronograph movements ever produced. The Valjoux 72 is a 17-jewel, manually wound mechanical chronograph movement featuring traditional column-wheel operation. Renowned for its elegant construction and long association with important Swiss chronographs, the Valjoux 72 remains a particular favourite among collectors of vintage mechanical watches. This example is signed Heuer-Leonidas S.A., reflecting the company's identity during this period. Importantly, the movement has been professionally serviced and is currently recording a rate of approximately +13 seconds per day with an amplitude of 294 degrees on the timegrapher. The watch is fitted with a dark brown leather strap featuring a textured, crocodile-style finish, complementing the stainless-steel case and black dial beautifully. Presented in very good overall condition, this is a particularly appealing example of the Heuer Camaro Reference 7220. With its distinctive cushion case, bold orange tachymeter detailing, beautifully balanced three-register dial and celebrated Valjoux 72 movement, it captures everything that makes vintage Heuer chronographs so desirable. A wonderfully characterful piece of late-1960s motorsport-inspired watchmaking, and a fantastic addition to any serious vintage chronograph collection. Condition Report: Crystal: Excellent Dial: Very Good Bezel: Good Case: Good Movement: Serviced +13s/d 294° Overall: Very Good