Heuer Autavia 2446 1st Execution

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SKU AS02538
SKU AS02538

Details

Why We Love It

It's no secret that the team at Analog/Shift is partial to all things motorsports and racing, and there are few brands with as strong a motorsports connection as Heuer.

 In fact, the name "Autavia" comes froms a line of rally dashboard clocks that Heuer produced long before the first Autavia wristwatches left the Heuer factory in 1962. 

This particular Autavia is a rare early example of the first generation Reference 2446 ‘screwback’ models in outstanding condition. Featuring a first series 'Big Subs’ Dial with second series luminous dauphinois hands - a desirable and documented factory combination. This model, hailing from 1963, has all of the things we love most about these early Autavias; cream colored patina, beautifully faded bezel, commanding wrist presence, and legendary Valjoux 72 mechanicals. 

FAR less common than their Rolex or Omega counterparts from the era, this reference is seldom seen in even auction showrooms. After all, with its blend of good-looks, history, and wearability, why would you want to let it go? We’re very fortunate to be offering this special example, so if you’re looking for something truly special that encapsulates the golden age of Motorsport, look no further!

The Story

Heuer's connection with Formula 1 is long-standing, going all the way back to the foundation of Formula 1 in 1950. Drivers in teams ranging from Lotus to Maserati to Jack Heuer's favorite Ferrari wore Heuer chronographs. Some of these have entered horological history carrying the names of the drivers who wore them, an enduring testament to this fruitful relationship. 

The name "Autavia" comes from a combination of two words: Automotive & Aviation. Heuer originally applied the moniker to dashboard clocks and instrumentation used in automobiles and aircraft, but recycled it in the 1960s and applied it to their line of professional racing chronographs for which the name is best known. 

Values for early Heuer chronographs (particularly manually-winding screw back Autavia models) are on the rise, and good examples are getting hard to come by. The most desirable models, the iconic Reference 2446, feature a reverse panda triple register dial layout and outer rotating bezel. The Autavia was the choice of legendary drivers from Jo Siffert, to Jochen Rindt, further cementing the models motorsports ties. 

 

 

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.

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