Manufacturer: Heuer Year: Circa 1972 Reference No: 2446C GMT Case No: 195'643 Model Name: Autavia GMT Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. Valjoux 724, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Heuer Corfam strap Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer 'sun' buckle Dimensions: 40mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Heuer cardboard box, instruction leaflet and numbered red swing tag. Literature: Similar examples of this watch are illustrated in "Heuer Autavia Chronographs 1962-85" (2nd edition) by Richard Crosthwaite & Paul Gavin, pages 98-101.
Catalogue Essay
With the increase of transatlantic flights in the 1960s, watch manufacturers realized the importance of dual time zone watches also called GMT. Introduced in 1969, the reference 2446C GMT was part of these new watches designed for pilots and jet set glitterali. The 24 hours bi-directional bezel offers a very clear readability to the wearer with the blue and red sector being clearly divided per hour.
Manufactured in 1972, the present example is the third execution reference 2446C GMT with plain steel hands, big sub registers, fluted pushers and plain caseback. Interestingly, there is no tritium symbol on the dial. Not only is this timepiece in exceptional condition but is also accompanied by its original box, hang tag, back sticker and the rarely seen original instruction leaflet.
Even though this very attractive Pepsi GMT is a tool watch, its flamboyant and attractive look is an invitation to go back to an alluring period where travelling was not just functional but also an adventure in itself.
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.