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37

Heuer

Ref. 1163MH

Autavia 'Orange Boy'

A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with date aperture at 6, orange accents on the dial, presentation box and guarantee.

Estimate
CHF15,000 - 25,000
CHF25,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Heuer
Year
Circa 1971
Reference No
1163MH
Case No
242'748
Model Name
Autavia 'Orange Boy'
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Automatic, cal. 12,17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Original Heuer Corfam strap
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Heuer 'sun' buckle
Dimensions
42mm. Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Accessories
Accompanied by Heuer red chequerboard presentation box and original guarantee.
Catalogue Essay
Introduced in 1971, the present reference stands out by the orange accents on the dial and on the hands, leading horology collectors to nickname the watch "Orange Boy". The production of this watch model ranged from serial numbers 241'xxx- to 244'xxx, placing the present timepiece into the very early production stage. This model was only available with two variations: the earliest production models like the present example display Monaco style hands, while the later production models had orange strips on the edge of the hands.

Inspired by the trends of the 70s, the "Orange Boy" embodies the same playful and colorful design that made pieces such as the Nesso lamp an icon of the era. The present reference 1163 remains a very rare watch to find, as less than 30 have surfaced over the years.

The example illustrated in these pages, sourced from a retired Heuer watchmaker, is in virtually unworn condition. The dial has started to turn into a charming dark brown tropical color, making the overall package a true rarity for the most demanding watch collectors.

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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