Heuer

The connection between Heuer and motorsport runs deep and the Heuer Autavia 2446C GMT is no exception, its name can trace its origins to a dashboard clock released in the 1930s.

The Autavia wristwatch was introduced in 1962 and it was first Heuer chronograph, spurring the genesis of the famous Heuer racing chronographs in the subsequent decades. 

The first generation Autavia featured a 38mm model. The next generation Autavias featured slightly larger ‘compressor’ cases which tightened under increased water pressure increasing its water resistance. The new 40-mm Autavia 2446C, C for ‘compressor’, was launched in 1968 with flatter angular lugs giving it a more modern appearance. 

Our present example is a 2446C GMT that was released alongside the regular chronograph model. Fitted with a blue and red ‘Pepsi’ bezel, it is powered by the hand wound Valjoux 724 movement that boasts a 48 hour power reserve and a frequency of 18000 vph.

The present watch is fresh to the market, consigned by the family of its original owner, John E. Duwall Sr. A former steelworker from the industrial heart of southwestern Pennsylvania, Mr. Duwall left the steel plant to build a successful business developing homes. He ultimately fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming both the owner and pilot of his own aircraft, a Piper PA-24 Comanchea 260, and acquired the present Heuer Autavia as his flying watch. The watch is accompanied by a signed letter from Mr. Duwall’s grandson.