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 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. Following its continued success, Heuer revamped the Autavia again and in 1972 launched the ref. 15630 that we have here. Featuring a cushion-shaped case with a triple crown design whereby its chronograph pushers are on the 3 o’clock side of the case and the winding crown is at 9 o’clock, the ref. 15630 is a whacky timepiece that basks in the glory of 1970s design and all of its interesting sensibilities. With its black bezel taking center stage, the ref. 15630’s white dial immediately stands out, however its single black 30-minute subdial and plethora of orange accents combine to create a wonderful design that is rich in color and entirely unique. With its different design and interesting heritage, the Autavia ref. 15630 is a watch that collectors can enjoy as it fuses a variety of elements together into one watch that are interesting to look at while on the wrist.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$2,000 – $4,000
The Details
Brand
Heuer
Dimensions
42mm
Model
Autavia
Movement
Automatic Buren cal. 15
Reference
15630
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1972 - 1975
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
With its interesting orange accents, black subdial and bright white backdrop, the ref. 15630's display is wonderfully unique, just like the rest of its entire construction.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Made of stainless steel and boasting a cushion-shaped case, the ref. 15630's 42mm case was huge for the 1970s, but with its winding crown at 9 o'clock and pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock, the ref. 15630 could wear slightly smaller and be enjoyed easier by its owner at the time.
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 excellent overall condition. Case has sharp edges and some surface scratches and marks. The edge of the bezel insert is worn as shown in the images. The hands with original luminous have slightly cracked, with a small hole visible in the minute hand.
Our Perspective
A wonderful example of eclectic 1970s watchmaking, the ref. 15630 showcases the vibrant designs and colors that watchmakers used to compete with quartz watches.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
