Heuer
Autavia Andretti Chronograph Stainless Steel 3646

Our Opinion

The name Heuer has long been synonymous with motor racing’s most prestigious contests including Formula 1, Indy 500 and Daytona 500. Mario Andretti’s rich racing career gave him victories in each of the above disciplines and many more besides. He was often presented with a winners watch to celebrate and proudly wore them even when racing. Although the Autavia ‘Andretti’ was not actually named after him, the legions of Heuer fans coined the nickname in honour of the heroic driver.

This iteration of the Autavia ‘Andretti’ reference 3646 was introduced in 1968 and has a well-proportioned 39mm case in stainless steel. Scratches and nicks on the case are commensurate for a tool watch with over 5 decades of service. The 60-minute bi-directional bezel is heavily worn showing originality of parts.
The serial number 84233 can clearly be seen at the base of the case between the lugs, indicating that this is from the early run of the ‘second execution’ cases. The outer part of the screw in steel back has some light and superficial scratches but shows its original Heuer engravings on the outside.
Both chronograph pushers are in good condition as is the gnarled steel crown which sports a large Heuer logo.

Under the plexiglass, the matte black baton dial is in excellent condition, beautifully balanced by two ‘big eye’ silver chronograph register dials offering 45-minute timing capability. Polished silver hands and indices appear original with evidence of reconditioning to the tritium lume spots.

The chronograph movement is a highly reliable Valjoux 92 calibre which was designed specifically to work with a 2-dial register. This manual wind movement is signed Heuer-Leonidas SA and is in great condition with no signs of corrosion.

Offered on a black leather strap with polished silver buckle this Autavia ‘Andretti’ comes with a 24-month warranty and Xupes presentation box.