A genuine piece of motorsport timing history — this Vintage Heuer Stopwatch Ref. 542.838 represents the golden age of precision rally instrumentation. Designed for team rallying and endurance events, this mechanical stopwatch was once paired with Heuer’s legendary Monte Carlo dashboard timers, cementing Heuer’s dominance in the world of motor racing chronometry.

Encased in a 57mm x 57mm black Bakelite housing, it’s both lightweight and robust — purpose-built for performance and durability. The 60-second per revolution display is complemented by a 0–12 minute totaliser, operated smoothly via the upper pusher.

The black dial features the original lume-filled minute counters and a white central hand with a faded orange tip, showing natural aging consistent with authentic vintage use.

Key Details

• Brand: Heuer

• Model: Stopwatch / Rally Timer

• Reference: 542.838

• Case Size: 57mm x 57mm

• Case Material: Bakelite (black)

• Dial: Black with luminous minute counters and white/orange central hand

• Movement: Manual wind, mechanical

• Functions: 60-second timer with 12-minute totaliser

• Condition: Excellent working order; honest wear and patina consistent with age

Our View

A true collector’s stopwatch from the golden age of Heuer’s timing instruments. Whether displayed alongside dashboard timers or kept as a standalone piece, this Heuer 542.838 Rally Timer captures the essence of Swiss precision and motorsport heritage. Fully functional and bursting with character, it’s an exceptional find for Heuer collectors and enthusiasts of vintage racing instrumentation.