Manufacturer: Heuer Year: 1969 Reference No: 1163MH Case No: 143'125 Model Name: Autavia "1163MH-2nd execution dial" Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 11, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer pin buckle Dimensions: 42mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Literature: Reference 1163MH 2nd execution dial is illustrated in in Heuer Autavia Chronographs 1962-1985 by Richard Crosthwaite & Paul Gavin, pages 132-133.
Catalogue Essay
The Autavia 1163MH distinguishes itself by its minutes/hours graduated bezel, black dial, white registers, date and red chronograph seconds hand matching the hour indexes. Examples of this model were spotted on the wrist of two British drivers: Derek Bell and Graham Hill. Derek Bell won Le Mans 24h Hours five times and Graham Hill was twice Formula One world champion as well as being the only driver ever to win the Triple Crown of Motorsport: Le Mans 24 Hours, Indianapolis 500 and either the Monaco Grand Prix or the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship. The present watch is offered today in superb condition with a very charismatic perforated black leather strap that further enhances the sporty design. Having already been the watch of choice of two famous car racers, this powerful chronograph should take the pole position in any watch collection dedicated to motorsports.
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.