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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Chronograph

Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' Reference 3147S

Partially verified

The Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' is a chronograph wristwatch featuring a date function positioned at the 12 o'clock hour marker. This specific example is identified as a first-generation model, characterized by its white dial, applied hour markers, and recessed chronograph registers. To maintain visibility when chronograph hands overlap the date window, the date numeral is presented in a red font. It is powered by a Landeron Calibre 89 movement, which records elapsed seconds alongside the chronograph functions. The dial displays the 'CARRERA' and 'HEUER' branding, as well as the text 'FAB. SUISSE' and 'T SWISS'.

Front view of the Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' Reference 3147S featuring a white dial, two-register chronograph layout, and red date window at 12 o'clock.
Front view of the Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' Reference 3147S featuring a white dial, two-register chronograph layout, and red date window at 12 o'clock. — Analog:Shift. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
analogshift.com
Category
Wristwatch · Chronograph
Maker / attribution
Heuer
Reference
3147S
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
Not established
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Dial and Complications

The dial configuration includes two recessed subsidiary registers, one at the 9 o'clock position for constant seconds and another at the 3 o'clock position for the chronograph minutes. A prominent feature is the date display window located directly at the 12 o'clock position.

The date is printed in a red font, a choice made by the manufacturer to ensure legibility when the chronograph hands move across the upper portion of the dial. Text printed on the lower half of the dial includes the 'CARRERA' model name, the 'HEUER' shield logo, 'FAB. SUISSE', and 'T SWISS' at the bottom edge.

Evidence for this section
  • “date at 12 o'clock above the two register display of the chrono”
  • “they executed the date in red font”
  • “elegant applied markers, recessed subdials, and zen-like simplicity of the dial”

Case and Movement

The proportions and design elements of the case are noted as predecessors to the general Carrera aesthetic.

Internal operation is provided by a Landeron Calibre 89 movement. This mechanical movement facilitates the operation of the chronograph functions and the date display.

Evidence for this section
  • “housed in a case with beautiful lugs”
  • “Powering it all is the Landeron Calibre 89”

Model Context

The source categorizes this watch as a first-generation execution of the Carrera Dato 12. It identifies the piece as a specific reference within the Heuer catalogue that carries the 'Dato 12' designation. The design is noted for incorporating elements such as recessed subdials and simplified markers which were subsequently seen in other models within the Carrera line.

The relationship between this reference and the Carrera line is explicitly discussed, noting that this watch technically predates the release of the primary Carrera model series.

Evidence for this section
  • “This incredible reference predated the release of the Carrera”
  • “first generation of the Carrera Dato 12”
  • “elements, evident here, that were obviously carried into the Carrera”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific serial number range for the first generation Carrera Dato 12 Reference 3147S?
  • Does the caseback indicate a production year or additional movement branding?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' Reference 3147S
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerHeuer“Vendor: Heuer”
Reference3147S“this watch, a Reference 3147S”
MovementLanderon Calibre 89“Powering it all is the Landeron Calibre 89”
Date configurationRed font at 12 o'clock“date at 12 o'clock above the two register display of the chrono. Heuer was concerned about the visibility of the date when the chronograph hands were overlapping that window, so they executed the date in red font.”
Dial featuresWhite dial with applied markers“first generation of the Carrera Dato 12, with a white-on-white dial housed in a case with beautiful lugs. Powering it all is the Landeron Calibre 89”

Visible details

  • Red date numeral positioned at the 12 o'clock location
  • Two-register dial layout with recessed subdials

Research qualifications

  • The source does not provide a specific year of manufacture
  • The connection between this reference and the broader Carrera model family is described by the source as somewhat inexplicable

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت Heuer Carrera 'Dato 12' مدل 3147S

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record aaabdf9ef5

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

Other chronograph records