Heuer Autavia for Argentine Airforce

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SKU AS01680
SKU AS01680

Why We Love it

As far as chronographs are concerned, and specifically mid-century chronos, Heuer is king. They're best-known for their racing chronographs, such as the Carrera, Camaro, Monza, and perhaps most iconically, the Autavia. The Autavia (a portmanteau of "automotive" and "aviation") was first introduced in the early 1960s and graced the wrists of such Formula 1 legends as Jo Siffert, Jochen Rindt, and Derek Bell. 

Throughout the Autavia's 20-year run, it saw several different case and dial configurations. The first Autavias had screw-down case backs, unusual for racing chronographs of the period, before shifting to snap-back compressor cases in the late 1960s, and cushion cases in the 1970s and 1980s. While there's something to be said for the distinctive look of the cushion case Autavias, the earlier snap-back compressor case models, Reference 2446C ("C" denoting "compressor"), are among the most desirable of Autavias, typifying for many collectors the ideal racing chronograph. 

While that's without a doubt the most notable association of Autavia, it also served as a General Issue timepiece in the German Bundeswehr. Additionally, starting in the late 1960s, Heuer also supplied Autavias to the Argentinian Air Force. These military-issue pieces utilized the snap-back compressor case of the 2446C and the rotating bezel, and bore the insignia of the Argentinian Air Force on the case back. 

Military-issue Autavias certain command attention when they emerge on the vintage market, and these--due to their relative rarity, as they were only produced from roughly 1969 to the 1970s--are no exception. With an attractive "reverse panda" dial configuration set off with a red chronograph hand, this is certainly a handsome and visually-appealing watch. Either on a leather "rally" style strap or on a nylon strap, it exudes character and a certain sportiness that only an Autavia can possess.  

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Heuer Autavia for Argentine Airforce

Heuer Autavia for Argentine Airforce

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Heuer Autavia for Argentine Airforce

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