Vintage Hanhart Steve McQueen Chronograph (1950s)

Founded in 1882, Hanhart established a reputation for producing robust, highly legible chronographs for aviation and military use. The legendary 417 ES became one of the first chronographs issued to the newly formed West German Air Force (Bundeswehr) during the 1950s, earning a reputation for precision, reliability and functional design. Its enduring appeal was cemented when Steve McQueen was famously photographed wearing his own 417 in Life magazine and later during the filming of The War Lover (1962), making it one of the most iconic military chronographs of the twentieth century.

This Hanhart 417 ES Ref. 6645-12-120-4 is housed in a 38mm stainless steel case and features an aged black dial with distinctive green Arabic numerals beneath a plexiglass crystal. Paired with an army green NATO strap, the watch perfectly captures the purposeful aesthetic of the original Bundeswehr-issued chronographs, with its beautifully aged appearance reflecting decades of authentic history and character.

Powering the watch is the manual-wind Hanhart calibre 417 ES chronograph movement, offering an approximately 42-hour power reserve and renowned for its dependable operation. Presented in vintage condition, with visible signs of wear consistent with its age and military heritage. Offered in watch-only configuration. Circa 1950. As with all vintage timepieces, we do not recommend wearing this watch in or around water, regardless of its original water resistance rating. Covered by our 24 month J. Farren Price warranty.

The following guide explains the condition terms used throughout our pre-owned and vintage watch collection.

• New
  Brand-new and unworn, supplied by J. Farren Price as an authorised dealer with the applicable manufacturer warranty.
• New Old Stock (NOS)
  An unworn watch from an earlier production period. Minor storage or handling marks may be present.
• Mint
  An exceptional pre-owned example presenting in near-new condition, with no visible wear.
• Excellent
  A very well-preserved watch showing only light signs of careful use.
• Very Good
  A well-presented watch showing normal signs of use, including minor scratches or surface wear.
• Good
  A watch showing more noticeable signs of regular use and age, while remaining presentable.

Vintage watches
Condition is assessed in the context of the watch's age. Natural patina and period-appropriate ageing may be present and do not necessarily detract from its grade.

Condition grades relate to cosmetic presentation. Originality, replacement parts, service history and accessories are described separately where known. Please refer to the individual product description and photographs for further details.

For more in depth information about any of our timepieces, feel free to contact our team directly on (08) 8223 2787 or visit our boutique to view in person.