Manufacturer: Heuer Year: Circa 1970 Reference No: 73663 Case No: 200’080 Model Name: Autavia “Siffert colors” Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, cal. 7736, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer pin buckle Dimensions: 40mm Diameter Signed: Dial, case, movement and buckle signed
Catalogue Essay
Heuer has always been closely tied to the world of motorsports, especially Formula 1 Grand Prix. During the exciting racing era of the 1960’s and 1970’s, most drivers had Heuer watches on their wrist, including champion driver Jo Siffert. Witnessed on the wrist of the Swiss Double Formula 1 Grand Prix champion during races, was a Heuer Autavia reference 1136 featuring a tachymeter scale on a white dial with black subsidiary dials and a date. Following the tragic accident in the 1971 Grand Prix, Heuer released the reference 73663 with what is now called the “Jo Siffert” colors.
The present example is presented in excellent overall condition and is a great example of a well preserved vintage Heuer Autavia reference 73663 with “Jo Siffert” colors.
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.