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HEUER Autavia Ref. 2446 First Execution all lume – 1962

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Brand: Heuer
Year: 1962
Model: Autavia “full lume”
Material: stainless steel
Movement: Valjoux 72
Case diameter without crown: 38mm
Bracelet/Strap: handcrafted leatherstrap
Service history: unknown, running well, all functions in working order
What you should know: the holy grail of Heuer watches
HEUER Autavia Ref. 2446 First Execution all lume – 1962

The Heuer 2446 “Full Lume” Holy Grail Chronograph is one of the most coveted pieces in vintage Heuer history – a true testament to design, heritage, and extreme scarcity. Introduced in 1962 as part of Heuer’s first named chronograph series, the Autavia quickly established itself as a benchmark in legibility and performance for both motorsports and aviation. The “Full Lume” configuration – featuring radium‑infused hands and oversized “big subs” – is particularly prized because it was produced in extremely limited numbers. According to leading collector insights, only about 150 of these early 2446 models were made in this special guise, and fewer than 10 surviving examples are known to exist today.

This rare piece is powered by the renowned Valjoux 72 movement – the same workhorse found in other legendary chronographs like the Rolex Daytona. The movement’s screws appear almost untouched, underscoring the meticulous originality of the timepiece. Notably, the watch has not been serviced recently; while it can certainly be serviced, that decision is ideally left to the new owner, who may wish to preserve its original condition or update its maintenance history as they see fit.

Aesthetically, the dial remains in impeccable condition, showcasing perfectly aged, original luminous material that exudes a beautifully patinated glow. In contrast, the bezel exhibits a well-worn, authentic vintage patina that speaks to its storied past without detracting from the overall appeal of the watch.

Historically, the Autavia name – derived from “automobile” and “aviation” – first appeared on a dashboard timer in 1933, and in 1962 Heuer revolutionized the wrist chronograph by introducing this model with a memorable name and design that set the standard for decades to come. Today, the Heuer 2446 Full Lume Chronograph is revered as a holy grail among collectors, prized not only for its historical significance and technical prowess but also for its near-mythical rarity.

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