206 Heuer Very Fine Autavia “orange Boy” Tonneau-shaped Automatic Chronograph Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 1163

Estimate: € 20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Sold € 22,100

Model: Autavia
Reference: 1163
Case Material: Stainless steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless steel
Year: 1970s
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 12′
Case N°: 243266
Dimensions: 40 x 42 mm
Signed: Case, dial, movement

Heuer made the first wristwatch for men in 1914, using pocket-watch movements and reflected demand for wristwatches that would only increase during the First World War and after. Almost 45 years later Heuer introduced a model recycling the name of a dashboard clock and instrumentation used in automobiles and aircraft and applying it to their line of professional racing chronographs: the Autavia. The present lot is an extremely rare specimen of the reference 1163 realized in stainless steel. Also known with the names Bianco or Great White, this watch is particularly rare since is one of the apparently only few examples bearing a white dial and orange hands e numerals. Preserved in very nice conditions, the tonneau case has a back with sides at 45 degrees produced by Schmitz and is also equipped with a very sporty bracelet in steel. The white dial is well preserved and so are the hands with a very vivid orange color and for this reason also know Orange Boy.