Heuer Autavia Reference 2446 "Rindt"

Heuer's connection with Formula 1 is long-standing, going all the way back to the foundation of Formula 1 in 1950. Drivers in teams ranging from Lotus to Maserati to Jack Heuer's favorite Ferrari wore Heuer chronographs. Some of these have entered horological history carrying the names of the drivers who wore them, an enduring testament to this fruitful relationship. 

The name "Autavia" comes from a combination of two words: Automotive & Aviation. Heuer originally applied the moniker to dashboard clocks and instrumentation used in automobiles and aircraft, but recycled it in the 1960s and applied it to their line of professional racing chronographs for which the name is best known. 

Values for early Heuer chronographs (particularly manually-winding screw back Autavia models) are on the rise, and good examples are getting hard to come by. The most desirable models, the iconic Reference 2446, feature a reverse panda triple register dial layout and outer rotating bezel. They were made famous by legendary Formula 1 driver Jochen Rindt, whose wife even has a noteworthy watch of her own.

Though born in Germany, Rindt represented Austria throughout his racing career. In his short life Rindt won six Formula 1 World Championships and once at 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Autavia that Rindt wore was a 3rd execution of the Reference 2446. The 3rd execution differed from the 2nd execution most notably in the markers, which in the 3rd execution have lume applied directly on them, and in the hands, which in the 3rd are plain steel. The 3rd execution was also offered with a variety of bezel inserts, with minutes (which Rindt preferred), hours (including 12 hour, featured here), and tachymeter. 

This particular example is in excellent condition, featuring a strong screw-back case with defined original bevels. The dial has just the right amount of patina, testament to the years it's seen. With tremendous looks and a robust Valjoux 72 movement, we would be hard-pressed to find any vintage timepiece that's more perfectly-suited for a vintage motorsports enthusiast.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.