HEUER TO STAY. After being voted as one of the most historic TAG Heuer models by 50,000 web users, the Swiss watchmaker will revive the retro watch for a new generation
In the spring of 2016, TAG Heuer held the Autavia Cup – an online voting competition to determine which was the most favorite design out of the 16 first-generation Autavias. After a total of over 50,000 votes were accumulated, the most favorite version was the 1966 Autavia Reference 2446 Mark 3, or also known as the “Rindt” in honour of the celebrated Formula 1 champion Jochen Rindt. Unknown to the voters, Tag Heuer planned to revive the Autavia based on the results of the competition.
More than just reissuing the new model, TAG Heuer is updating the new Autavia with features more relevant for today’s market, yet still maintaining key aspects of the original watch. Compared to the 1960’s original that had a 38mm-diameter case, the new Autavia will have a 42mm-diameter case and feature 12-hours on the bi-directional bezel. Embedded with a new Heuer-02 calibre chronograph movement, the Autavia revival also features other modern amenities such as a self-winding caliber with a power reserve of 80 hours, date at 6 o’clock and water resistance to 100 meters.
As for looks, the new generation stays true to the original Autavia as possible, maintaining its simple robust lines. The “mushroom” push pieces, rigid crown, classic Heuer logo and distressed calfskin strap gives it that vintage worn look. After closer inspection will you notice that it has indeed been updated, as the TAG Heuer’s new Autavia features a date aperture and a sapphire case-back.
For the launch of the new TAG Heuer Autavia at BaselWorld 2017, actor, race car driver and the brands ambassador, Patrick Dempsey, presented a short film titled “Letter to Jack” dedicated to TAG Heuer’s Honorary Chairman, Jack Heuer. The short poetic clip also marks Patrick Dempsey’s directorial debut. The Swiss watchmaker also announced the release of the book “Autavia – Story of an Icon,” to inform fans of the brand on the history of this particular timepiece.