Heuer Autavia

A chronograph is essential to motorsports, and many of the best drivers of the golden age of Formula 1 racing--the 1960s and 1970s--strapped a Heuer to their wrists. Perhaps one of the most iconic racing chronographs is the Heuer Autavia. Heuer first applied the name "Autavia" (a portmanteau of "automotive" and "aviation," signifying its intended use in both automobiles and aircraft) to dashboard clocks in cars and airplanes. But it's with the chronographs intended for use in motorsports that the name "Autavia" is best associated. To us here at analog/shift, the Autavia epitomizes racing chronographs. 

The earliest Autavias were introduced in the mid-1960s and housed manually-wound chronograph movements. These early models had screw-down case backs, unusual for racing chronographs of the period. Then, around 1969, Heuer began using a snap-back compressor case for improved water resistance; however, in the 1970s, Heuer shifted to the large, cushion-style cases that are most often associated with the model, primarily to accommodate the new Caliber 11 movement. 

This Autavia 2446C is from 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 it very easy to wear. The inverse panda dial is probably the most popular color way in today's chronograph market, and if there’s one thing Heuer knows, it’s how to make a beautiful dial. This 2446C differs from the first execution in that the markers are different, with the lume applied directly to the dial. Ours is one of the later models of this reference, as evinced by the addition of subtle red accents to the dial and a matching red chronograph hand.

The Valjoux 72 movement inside, the same as the Rolex Daytona and Universal Geneve Nina Rindt, is one of the best chronograph calibers ever made, another indication of the incredible quality that Heuer brought to market. With its svelte profile, easy to slip under a cuff, 40mm case, great movement and attractive dial, the Autavia is a nearly perfect vintage chronograph, both a testament to the endurance its design a well as its impeccable racing heritage. 

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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.