Heuer
1968 Heuer Autavia (Ref. 7763C) Mk.1
The Heuer Autavia came into production in 1933 as a dashboard timer for automotive racing and flying, where the Autavia name is derived, Auto and Aviation. The Autavia then later introduced in 1962 (The same year Jo Siffert entered Formula One) as the wristwatch we know today, and soon became the flagship for the entire Brand.
The Heuer Autavia ref. 7763C is the second generation of the Autavia wristwatch, like the iconic 2446C, that features a 40mm EPSA designed case. EPSA is the same designer as the Super-Compressor dive watches of the 60s. The very first executions of the compressor-style 7763C's from 1968 featured a white chronograph hand, small teeth notched bezel with either a minutes/hours or a tachymetre bezel insert. The 7763C is the two-register chronograph version of the compressor case Autavias and features the Valjoux Cal. 7730 chronograph movement.
| Stock # | HURAUT7736C | |
| Brand | Heuer | |
| Style | Autavia | |
| Model | 7763C | |
| Serial | 13XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black, White Sub-Dials | |
| Millimeters | 40mm | |
| Strap | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The stunning case is believed to remain unpolished, featuring strong chamfers and sharp angles with light, honest signs of use. The original black tachymeter bezel is in very impressive condition, showing light signs of use and remaining deep black in coloration. The case retains its original pump pushers and Heuer signed crown The case back features its original factory markings that remain visible and legible, which is rarely seen as these often wear out from use. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black "reverse panda" dial is simply gorgeous showing minimal patina in the dial itself and tasteful aging in the sub-dials. The tritium markers have taken on a dark patina, under U.V. light inspection the 3 o'clock plot has light degradation, the rest of the lume plots are fully intact. The original hands match the dial, under U.V. light inspection there is a small dot of lume missing in the minute hand, though it does not appear to be degradation and is believed the hand came from the factory like this, the hour hand shows no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is running perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.