Manufacturer: Heuer Year: Circa 1967 Reference No: 2446 Case No: 89'173 Model Name: Autavia, 3rd Execution Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Mechanical, 72, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Blue calf leather strap Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Heuer buckle Dimensions: 38 mm. diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Literature: For another example of a stainless steel third execution reference 2446, please see Heuer Autavia Chronographs 1962-85 by Richard Crosthwaite and Paul Gavin, page 66.
Catalogue Essay
The present watch, lovingly dubbed the "Rindt”, is named after Formula One driver Karl Jochen Rindt who frequently wore a third execution reference 2446 during his racing heyday. This example features the famous Singer reverse panda dial, with matching warm patina to the square numerals and hands. This watch features the correct “thin” bezel, calibrated to 60 minutes, which coincidentally was Rindt’s bezel of choice. Most interestingly, the movement bridge is stamped EWD, which research suggests is an import code for the watch to enter the United States.
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.