Few brands excite the sophisticated vintage collector more than Heuer does. While the modern iteration of the Brand, Tag Heuer, caters to the entry level segment of the market the Heuer of old was at the top of their game at the time and second to none.

The watch we present to you today is one of the very finest examples of 1960s watchmaking. The name “Autavia” is derived from the words automotive and aviation, and it is in the former segment that Heuer dominated. If you wanted a racing chronograph in the sixties and seventies then Heuer was your brand of choice. After all Steve McQueen, Niki Lauda, and Jochen Rindt can’t all be wrong when choosing their watch of choice.

This specific model is a reference 2446 Autavia with the compressor case. This watch is from 1968, the year this model got introduced, and has the Mark 1 dial which can be identified by the smaller teeth on the bezel not having any red accents.

Driving this Autavia is the legendary Valjoux 72 movement which is a legend in its own right having been housed in such watches as the Navitimer and the Daytona. The manual wound three register chronograph works perfectly, is a joy to operate, and a pleasure to work on.

At 40,5 mm in diameter it wears like a modern watch but has the patina to back up its vintage heritage. The recent revival of this model is only a testament to its timeless design. The fact that this Autavia has the rare tachymeter bezel is the cherry on top to make this the perfect vintage racing watch.