Heuer Autavia Ref. 2446 'Rindt' - Matte Black 'Reverse-Panda' Dial

While the Carrera gets all the attention, the Heuer Autavia is actually the ‘OG’ Heuer. A combination of ‘Automotive’ and ‘Aviation’ - the Autavia line originally started as dash mounted rally timers made for motorsport and aviation applications. It was not until the early 1960s that first Autavia wrist chronographs came around. The first generation Autvaia, the Reference 2446, utilized screw-back cases and the venerable Valjoux 72 manual-winding movements, while the second generation case with used a snap-back case or ‘Compressor’ Case - hence the model shift to 2446C.

The watch that we have here is the former: a Ref. 2446 with a 'Second Execution' case and 'Third Execution' dial. In addition to the aforementioned screw-down caseback, it also features 'pump' pushers, a winding crown at 3 o'clock, and an externally-mounted bezel assembly — all mated to a wonderfully-sized 38mm case.

This particular example dated to circa the late 1960s and is offered in excellent overall condition. The case retains symmetrical lugs at each corner, with clear factory facets, crisp undersides and shows normal wear. The bezel assembly and black 12-hr insert show matching wear and present beautifully. Inside, the dial features a desirable 'reverse-panda' layout, with its black base and contrasting white subsidiary registers with 'concentric' finishing within. It remains in fantastic overall condition, virtually free of wear or damage, with applied 'faceted' indices, gently patinated Tritium plots, and a matching handset.

Since its conception, the Autaiva, in virtually all of its guises, has become one of the most desirable chronographs ever produced, and its not difficult to see why: Excellent, robust and proven movements, legible dial layouts, and they hail from one of the most storied brands to ever be associated with chronographs.