This is a rare Heuer Autavia 2446C from 1969 with a beautiful reverse panda dial, a compressor case and Valjoux 72 movement.
The letter C in the reference 2446C stands for the compressor case. The watches with these cases were produced in a short period in the late 1960s and are very rare.
This chronograph features the first Mark1 dial version with a classic reverse panda layout and a white chronograph seconds hand. The matt black surface of the dial has been preserved absolutely clean. The three white sub-registers have aged evenly and show a beautiful honest patina. The watch features small running second at 9, a 30-minute counter at 3 and a 12-hour totalizer with "SWISS T" signature at 6. The tritium lume in the hour markers and hands is original.
The large diameter of 40mm gives the watch a striking, sporty look on the wrist. The rotatable black bezel features a tachymeter scale up to 400 units per hour. The stainless steel case shows natural signs of wear, but appears to be unpolished. The lugs have a thick profile. The engravings on the bottom are sharp. The iconic manual-wound caliber Valjoux 72 was recently serviced and operates perfectly keeping very good time.
Overall, this Heuer Autavia 2446C is a classic vintage chronograph from the late 1960s with rare features and it is preserved in coveted collector's condition.
Serial number: 109xxx
Int.Exe.: 1405070