Heuer - The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE Geneva Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Heuer
    Year: Circa 1970
    Reference No: 2446C
    Case No: 145'035
    Model Name: Autavia Argentinian Air Forces
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 72, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Gay Frères bracelet, end links stamped HLB, max length 210mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer deployant clasp stamped 1.70
    Dimensions: 40mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    At first glance, one can see that the present Autavia, 2446C, is characterized by the 'compressor case', hence the "C" after the reference number. Introduced circa 1968, the compressor case was an alternative to screw down cases and insured waterproofness and robustness to the watch. The case became larger by 1mm than its predecessor, boasting 40mm case diameter. The present watch is also fitted with a bezel indicating only the hours.
    But what makes the present watch special and distinguishes it from its peers is the engraving on the caseback. This watch had a totally different destiny than the normal production as it was commissioned by the Argentinian Air Force for their pilots. Bearing the FAA, Fuerza Aerea Argentina emblem along with the issued number 0823, the watch was on duty in the early 1970s. Jack Heuer designed the Autavia as the perfect chronograph for racing, using a strong contrasting color scheme on the dial to improve readability in precarious situations. This contrast between the color of the dial and the one of the subdials also made it a suitable watch to be used by Air Forces around the world.
    Despite its tumultuous life, this watch remains in very good condition and is still fitted with its original Gay Frères bracelet stamped 1.70.

  • Artist Biography

    Heuer

    Swiss • 1860

    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.

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178

Ref. 2446C
A rare and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch made for the Argentinian Air Force

Circa 1970
40mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF12,000 - 18,000 
€10,700-16,000
$12,100-18,100

Sold for CHF18,750

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE

Geneva Auction 11-12 May 2019