While today there are probably more quartz watches in the Tag Heuer stable than not, if we go back a handful of decades to when Heuer was the only name on the dial, the brand was known almost exclusively for its incredible mechanical movements.

But the 1970s "quartz crisis" spared no one, not even the legends, and Heuer had to do something to keep the doors open. So, they came out with these battery-powered "Monnin Case" dive watches, which told time more accurately and, more importantly, were much cheaper to produce – a win-win for a company in dire straits.

And while "quartz" tends to be a 4-letter word among watch enthusiasts today, the fact remains that this is a fantastic, classically designed dive watch made by one of the most storied brands in horology – and a piece that's far more accessible than the vintage Monacos and Carreras floating around out there. It's maybe even more unique, too. 

CASE & BRACELET

The French-designed stainless steel "Monnin Case" retains exceptional dimensions and chamfers while showing only minimal evidence of previous polishing with gentle signs of use present. The original black unidirectional ratcheting bezel is in superb condition, showing almost no signs of previous use while retaining its luminous pearl at the 12 o'clock position. The original mineral glass crystal shows some gentle signs of use. The watch features its original crown nestled between stout crown guards. The engravings on the case back remain fully visible and present, but show light fading through wear. The watch comes on its original Heuer Jubilee-style bracelet with a flip-lock clasp, the bracelet retains 16 links that show some stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black dial is in flawless condition, showing no damage or age whatsoever. The tritium lume plots have taken on a characteristic greenish-yellow hue that is commonly seen on these watches in this era, the lume shows no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original tritium hands have taken on a more tan coloration and also exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch just received a brand new battery and is keeping time perfectly.