Heuer Autavia

About this reference

The Heuer Autavia reference 2446 was produced between 1962 and approximately 1970. Collectors prioritize this reference for its use of the manual-wind Valjoux 72 movement and its screw-back stainless steel case, which preceded the later compressor-style cases. Early examples are distinguished by their "Big Sub" registers and dauphine hands, while later executions transitioned to stick hands and smaller sub-dials. The reference is historically significant as the first Autavia model released under Jack Heuer’s leadership. Current secondary market values typically range from $15,000 for later executions to over $100,000 for rare early variants. A notable production variant is the "Jochen Rindt" execution, named after the Formula One driver who wore the watch; a rare first-execution 2446 with large registers and a "full lume" dial achieved a record auction price of approximately $200,000 in 2017.