Heuer Autavia

One of our favorite watches to come out of the “Golden Age” of sports chronographs is the Heuer Autavia. Named from the combination of two words, Automotive & Aviation, these watches evolved from aircraft and automobile dashboard timers to become Heuer's most popular line of chronograph wristwatches, and we love the hell out of them. 

The 2446C is the second generation of Autavia wristwatches, featuring a larger compression case than the earlier models, and a redesigned rotating bezel. The 40mm case is thin for its size, and the downwardly angled lugs hug the wrist, making this one hell of a comfortable watch. The inverse panda dial is probably the most popular chronograph colorway, and if there’s one thing Heuer knows, it’s how to make a beautiful dial. This 2446C is one of the later models, evidenced by the addition of subtle red accents to the dial and a matching red chronograph hand.

During the golden age of sports car racing, a chronograph watch was an essential piece of kit, and many of the racing greats had a Heuer on their wrists. The link to racing is what drew many Heuer enthusiasts to the brand years ago, but the brand has finally reached a wide audience thanks to the quality, design and history and of brand.

The Valjoux 72 movement inside, the same as the Rolex Daytona and UG Nina Rindt, is one of the best chronograph calibers ever made, another indicator of the incredible quality that Heuer brought to market. 2446Cs are not easy to come by (especially in good condition) in today’s market, and we at analog/shift truly believe that they are one of the best buys in all of vintage Heuer.

With its svetle profile, letting it easily slip under a cuff, 40mm case, great movement and sexy dial, the Autavia is a nearly perfect vintage chronograph. We know you want one, and if you don't, you probably should!