In the early 1950s, Heuer built the Seafarer Ref. 2443 exclusively for Abercrombie & Fitch, a chronograph designed for fishermen, sailors, and hunters who needed to track tidal movements in the field. Heuer modified the Valjoux 72, adding a functional tide indicator at nine o'clock that rotates over a 59-day lunar cycle. Early Seafarer examples like this one feature radium-painted circular indices across the lower three quarters of the dial, a design that would later be replaced by Arabic numerals in subsequent years. Please note that the hands and tide indicator in this watch have been replaced with second generation 2443 or 2444 components in place of the originals. Produced in small numbers and overshadowed by Heuer's Carrera and Autavia lines, the 2443 remains one of the rarest and most purposeful maritime chronographs of the mid-century era. Watch Details Brand: Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Model: Seafarer Ref. 2443 Case Number: 91XXXX Serial Number: 91XXXX Movement Details Movement Number: Valjoux 72 Type: Manual Jewels: 17 Complications: Chronograph, Tide Indicator Case Material: Stainless Steel Diameter: Approx. 38mm Lug to Lug Length: Approx. 43mm Bracelet Material: Genuine Leather Length: Approx. 8.75 Inches Additional Information Gender: Male/Unisex Dial Color: Silvered Crystal: Plastic Year of Manufacture: Approx. 1950s Condition: Pre-Owned Functionality: Functioning (Recently Serviced) Box & Papers: N/A Notes This Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Seafarer Ref. 2443 features a prominent 38mm stainless steel case that remains in excellent, unpolished condition. It shows light surface wear consistent with careful use, while retaining sharp lugs and crisp faceting. Its silvered dial displays an attractive, even patina, most notable along the outer edges. Radium-painted indices show lume aging and spotting as expected, and the second-execution hands retain lume only on the minute hand (see images for reference). The watch is equipped with a later 2nd-generation 2443 or 2444 tide indicator in place of the original, powered by a 17-jewel Valjoux Cal. 72 movement. It’s fitted with an Italian-made green leather strap and a steel buckle. Its acrylic crystal remains clear, showing minimal surface wear. It displays two case serial numbers, including s#9164XX and s#9164XX, given how close these two serial numbers are its plausible to think they left the factory, or Abercrombie mismatched, triple signed. Overall, this Seafarer presents as a well-preserved, unpolished vintage example with honest wear and thoughtful watchmaker upgrades.