Manufacturer: Heuer Year: 1966 Reference No: 2446 Case No: 85’630 Model Name: Autavia Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 72, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle Dimensions: 38.5mm diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Literature: For a similar example see Heuer Autavia Chronographs 1962-85, Richard Crosthwaite & Paul Gavin, pg. 66-67
Catalogue Essay
Deriving its name from the combination of the words “automobile” and “aviation”, the Heuer Autavia chronograph wristwatches from the 1960s were often found on the wrists of professional racecar drivers.
With its beautiful black dial with contrasting white subdsidiary registers, the present Autavia Reference 2446 from 1966 is an especially sought after model. Known amongst collectors as the “Jochen Rindt”, the watch was named after the famous Formula One driver Karl Jochen Rindt (18 April 1942 – 5 September 1970) who was often photographed wearing a similar example. This is not to be confused with the highly popular Universal Genève “Nina Rindt” Compax, which gained notoriety ever since Jochen’s wife was photographed wearing one.
Featuring a rotating bezel calibrated for twelve hours, an oversized case measuring 38.5 mm in diameter, and a high quality dial manufactured by Singer, it is a superb piece that ticks every box for watch enthusiasts.
This chronograph is in as good as it gets condition, and is one of the best examples to appear on the market in recent years. It is a true treasure for the discerning collector.
This iconic chronograph manufacturer has a long tradition of precision timekeeping. As early as 1882, founder Edouard Heuer held a patent for a chronograph watch; in 1887, he received a patent for an oscillating pinion, which is still in use today. These specialized timepieces have been at the heart of the firm's success, enabling the brand to be chosen as early timekeepers for the Olympics. In 1969, the company introduced their first automatic chronograph watch, the Monaco Heuer, which celebrated the Monaco Grand Prix. Other key chronograph models include the Autavia and the Carrera, all of which having become iconic models of the firm.