Over the past 10 years the collectors’ community has seen a surge in the desirability of Heuer timepiece and within this increased interest the Autavia “Siffert” has particularly stood out. Worn by the rakish double Formula 1 racing champion Jo Siffert, the panda dial Autavia reference 1163 with blue accents was often photographed on Siffert’s wrist.

The present example shares all the same design feature as the Siffert Autavia except for the movement. Contrary to the Siffert Autavia the present lot houses a manual wind Valjoux 7734 movement with sub dials recording minutes and showing the running seconds. The date window at the 6 o’clock position, steel hands with black insert and tachymeter bezel are all features found in the Siffert Autavia.

The present chronograph wristwatch shines amongst the lights of the early to mid 1970s Autavias models due to its wonderful unpolished condition, original fitted bracelet and outstanding panda dial making this a worthy addition for the chronograph hunter