Introduction
Launched in 1962 as their first wrist-mounted chronograph with a turning bezel, the Heuer Autavia is one of the most iconic watches in automotive history. Named after a dash counter that Heuer offered for cars, boats and planes - the word Autavia is created by combining “AUTomobile” and “AVIAtion”. With its iconic reverse panda dial, luminescent hour markers, 100m water resistance, and robust case design, the Autavia was truly a versatile watch that succeeded in fulfilling Heuer’s simple ethos of being a legible chronograph. Moreover, thanks to its aforementioned features, the Autavia could be used by pilots just as well as divers and drivers alike. Due to its commercial success and immense popularity in the early 60s, Heuer released the 2nd generation of the Autavia, which they did in 1968 with the ref. 2446, and the 3rd generation in 1969 with the ref. 1163T, which is what we have here. Boasting a cushion case, a silver panda dial with blue accents, a black rotating bezel, THE ref. 1163 is perhaps one of Heuer’s most iconic models. Kept in Heuer’s catalogue until 1986, the Autavia was a hugely successful watch that truly was one of the early champions in the chronograph arena.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$6,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
Heuer
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Autavia "Viceroy"
Movement
Automatic Heuer cal. 12
Reference
1163
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 1960s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Boasting the Autavia's stunning bi-compax reverse panda black dial and a date aperture at 6 o'clock, the ref. 1163's white subdials and black bezel insert combine with its red accents to create a wonderfully vibrant display that was made famous as being offered as part of a promotion with Viceroy cigarettes.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting a unique, for-the-time, tonneau-shaped stainless steel case, the ref. 1163 was immediately recognizable on the wrist.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows light surface scratches and marks as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back has scratches around the outer edge. The hour and minute graduated bezel remains well defined, while the black insert shows surface scratches and wear around the circumference. 1163 Viceroys are typically found with a tachymeter bezel, but some were fitted with the hour minute bezel like this example. The dial and hands remain excellent. The crystal shows scratches and small nicks. It is fitted with a folded five-link steel bracelet showing surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 19 links and fits approximately a 7½” wrist.
Our Perspective
Becoming a legendary variant due to Heuer's rather unique marketing tactic of offering it as part of a promotion in partnership with Viceroy cigarettes, the reverse panda ref. 1163 is an icon of 1960s horological culture.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
