This rare Heuer Autavia Reference 2446C from 1969 combines some of the most desirable features found in early Heuer chronographs: a striking reverse panda dial, the rare compressor case and the legendary Valjoux 72 manual-winding movement.
The letter “C” in the reference 2446C stands for “Compressor Case” and refers to the special case construction of this version. Autavia models featuring this case type were produced only for a short period in the late 1960s and are today considered among the rarest variants within the early Autavia line.
The present example features the highly desirable early Mark 1 dial with the classic reverse panda layout and white chronograph seconds hand. The matte black dial surface remains exceptionally clean. The three white subdials have aged evenly and, together with the authentic patina, give the watch a wonderful vintage appearance.
With its large 40 mm diameter, the Autavia offers an exceptionally modern and sporty presence on the wrist. The stainless steel case shows honest, natural signs of wear that underline the authentic character of the watch. Inside beats the iconic Valjoux 72 manual-winding movement – one of the most renowned chronograph calibres of its era – freshly serviced and running reliably.
Overall, this Heuer Autavia 2446C presents itself as a rare and highly attractive late-1960s vintage chronograph that is perfectly suited for daily wear.
Condition Report
Dial: flawless matte black surface – natural and matching patina on the subdials – original and intact tritium lume in the markers and hands – matching tritium colour throughout the markers and hands – everything has aged very harmoniously – signed “Autavia Heuer Swiss T”.
Case: 40 mm stainless steel case in honest worn condition – natural signs of wear – visible engravings on the caseback – clearly visible serial number between the lugs – rotating bezel with light wear marks – bi-directional rotating bezel.
Movement: Valjoux 72 manual-winding movement – serviced in April 2026 – timegrapher results: rate deviation: +8 s/day, Amplitude: 279 degrees, beat error: 0.3 ms.
Serial number: 109xxx
Int.Exe.: 123618