Introduction
Launched in 1962 as their first wrist-mounted chronograph with a rotating 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, as pictured here. This gave the Autavia a revamped look in the form of squared lugs and a larger bezel. 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
$5,000 – $7,000
The Details
Brand
Heuer
Dimensions
40mm x 13.5mm
Model
Autavia
Movement
Manually wound Valjoux cal. 72
Reference
2446C
Bracelet
Leather Strap
Year
Circa 1970
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Watch Only
Dial Color
Black
THE CASE
Named the ref. 2446C, this example's secret lies in the "C" which stands for "compressor." This is a reference to its compressor case design which utilises the surrounding water pressure as means to tighten the caseback and crown onto the case and increase water resistance.
THE DIAL
Featuring a reverse panda-style dial, the ref. 2446C's dial is similar to the layout and design on the Cup-winning "Rindt" reference worn by famed F1 driver Karl Jochen Rindt.
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 very good overall condition. Dial is excellent with only minor wear visible in the subdials. Luminous material is original and evenly toned. Case is excellent but shows surface scratches and wear, the lugs also with surface wear that is consistent with age. Caseback engravings are fully visible but show signs of wear over time and are now worn.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, an alternative leather strap to the existing exotic version, shall be provided.
Our Perspective
An iconic watch from Heuer's heyday, the Autavia has since been successfully re-released by TAG Heuer thanks to its importance as one of the brand's most historically significant pieces and for its crucial role in developing watchmaking's ever-significant presence in car racing.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
