Heuer - The Geneva Watch Auction: XIII Geneva Saturday, May 8, 2021 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Heuer
    Year: Circa 1968
    Reference No: 2446C
    Case No: 130'900
    Model Name: Autavia
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Valjoux 72, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 40mm Diameter
    Signed: Case and dial signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    There are many very subtle design differences between the chronograph wristwatches within the Autavia reference 2446 models that aren't always immediately obvious. This can be explained by the fact that Heuer's designs were intuitive and dependent on each particular task the watch was to perform. After immersing himself in the racing circuit, Jack Heuer produced the tachymeter bezels for the postulant racing drivers; recognising the surge in luxury travellers he added minutes and hours bezels for aspirational aircraft pilots.

    In 1968, Heuer introduced the Compressor case, which was assigned the reference 2446C. This case modification increased the waterproofness of the watch with a new compression snap-on caseback. In addition to the new caseback, the case was also enlarged by almost 1,5 millimeters, the lugs were redesigned to appear more angular and the bezel was updated with groups of serrated teeth. Reference 2446C was available with a large choice of bezel graduations: Hours, Minutes, GMT or like the present example, a Tachymeter scale. These new features gave the watch a bolder and more masculine look but also made it one of the most comfortable Autavias to wear.

    The present 2446C is in very appealing condition, displaying a crisp case, thick lugs and matte black dial. This watch is certainly a unique opportunity for Heuer collectors worldwide.

  • 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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Ref. 2446C
An attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with tachymeter bezel

Circa 1968
40mm Diameter
Case and dial signed

Estimate
CHF15,000 - 30,000 
€13,600-27,100
$16,400-32,700

Sold for CHF18,900

Contact Specialist

Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Watches, Continental Europe and the Middle East

41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

 

 

The Geneva Watch Auction: XIII

Geneva Auction 8 - 9 May 2021