Sotheby’s will host the auction debut of a TAG Heuer Monaco watch worn by actor Steve McQueen during filming of his 1971 auto racing drama "Le Mans."
McQueen’s watch will be auctioned Dec. 11 at Sotheby’s New York, where it’s expected to sell for between $500,000 and $1 million. The leather-strap watch is one of six blue-dialed Heuer Monaco 1133B watches that were present on the "Le Mans" movie set. Before its New York auction, Sotheby’s will exhibit the watch in Monterey, California, Aug. 14-17.
“The connection between cars and watches is well-known, but the reference 1133B encapsulates this union in a way unmatched by other timepieces,” said Geoff Hess, global head of watches at Sotheby’s. “For enthusiasts of racing, McQueen or vintage chronographs, this watch represents the ultimate addition to any collection — a true 'end game' piece.”