The Heuer Autavia came into production in 1933 as a dashboard timer for automotive racing and flying, where the Autavia name is derived, Auto and Aviation. The Autavia then later introduced in 1962 (The same year Jo Siffert entered Formula One) as the wristwatch we know today, and soon became the flagship for the entire Brand.
The Heuer Autavia ref. 2556C is the second generation of the Autavia wristwatch that features a 40mm EPSA designed case, the same designer as the Super-Compressor dive watches of the 60s. The ref. 2246C uses a compression style case for waterproofness as well, noted by the "C" in the reference number which indicates the use of a compression snap caseback. The 2446C Autavia came with several bezel options, the tachymetre bezel being the most rare and sought after bezel variant among them. The Autavia ref. 2446c and was also produced as a GMT chronograph that featured a slightly different dial design and "Pepsi" 24hr bezel. The Heuer Autavia ref. 2446C sports the famous Valjoux 72 chronograph movement and featured either a matte black or matte white dial.
| Stock # | HURAUT2446CNS | |
| Brand | Heuer | |
| Style | Autavia | |
| Model | 2446C | |
| Serial | 13XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black, White Sub-Dials | |
| Millimeters | 40mm | |
| Strap | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case retains its characteristic lugs chamfers and appears to have been lightly polished in the past, showing very full and even lugs with honest signs of use. The original rotating tachymetre bezel remains in beautiful condition and remains deep black in coloration with very little signs of aging. The case retains its original pump pushers and "Heuer" signed crown. The case backs factory engravings are faint but still visible, which is very common for this reference. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black "reverse panda" dial with white sub-dials remains in remarkable vintage condition. The sub-dials remain bright white in coloration, showing only very light signs of aging. The tritium markers have taken on a charming dark patina, under U.V. light inspection the 6 o'clock marker exhibits some very minor degradation, the rest of the lume plots remains fully intact. The original tritium hands match the dial nicely and exhibit no degradation under U.V. light inspection.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is running at spec, previous service history is unknown.
