48 Heuer Very Rare and Fine Autavia Tonneau-shaped Chronograph Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 741 603, Made for the Kenyan Air Force

Estimate: € 5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Sold € 3,900

Model: Autavia
Reference: 741 603
Case Material: Stainless steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless steel
Year: 1970s
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 7741
Case N°: KAF204
Dimensions: 40 x 42 mm
Signed: Case, dial, movement

The Autavia model has a wide range family with different features and destinations, one of the most appealing and interesting is the reference 741 603, such as the present lot. The very model is extremely rare and was never featured in any of the original catalogues or sales material. The majority of these very few known examples have engraved on the screw back KAF which stands for Kenya Air Force. The other two main features of these examples are the dial with luminous Arabic numerals and the high beat Valjoux 7740 movement. It is interesting to note the bridge on all known examples is signed 7741 which is in fact the GMT variant of this movement. The lot offered here is a very nice specimen with a well-preserved stainless steel case and bracelet, a charming bezel and a supercool dial with a principle of tropicalization. The red numerals and chronograph hand maintain their vivid color even after more than 40 years. Moreover, this watch has a Gay Freres bracelet.