Using history to forge a new path, the latest TAG Heuer collection takes inspiration
from the original Autavia models to appeal to a new generation of adventurers.
TAG Heuer have reintroduced the Autavia as a stand-alone collection with a range of models that boast the versatility, ruggedness and reliability that characterised the original Autavia watches produced in the 1960s. Making use of the carbon-composite hairspring technology that distinguishes each piece as an Isograph, the avant-garde watchmaker builds on its heritage to continue the saga.
From 1933 to 1957, the Autavia was a dashboard instrument used in racing cars and aircraft. The name itself comes from the combination of automobile and aviation. After production of the Autavia dashboard timer stopped, the name was still available, and CEO at the time Jack Heuer decided to use it for the chronograph wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker launched in 1962. Immediately recognisable, this innovative new timepiece captured the energy and excitement of rally racing and was legible in any conditions. Popular among racing enthusiasts and armed forces around the world, the Autavia enjoyed great success and a sterling reputation until production ceased in 1985. Today, the Autavia is being reintroduced as its own collection with seven references that have been designed with the adventurous and daring spirit the Autavia is known for.
The universe of the Autavia captured in a contemporary style
TAG Heuer’s stylish, cockpit-inspired watch features eye-catching elements that are rooted in the history of the line. What fans loved about the original – its functionality, timeless style and numerous combinations – are also evident in the seven new models revealed at Baselworld. The stainless-steel Autavia 42 mm threehand models feature the rounded first-generation Autavia case and bevelled lugs from the 1960s. A bidirectional rotating bezel with a 60-minute scale in black ceramic, blue ceramic or stainless steel enhances the sporty look of the watch. The XL crown takes inspiration from pilot’s watches and timers that used oversized crowns to make them easier to use while wearing gloves. The original Autavia was also known for being highly legible in any conditions, and this is also the case with the 2019 versions. The hour markers
and hour, minute and seconds hands are coated in SuperLuminova®, making it possible to read the time even when adventure leads you into the dark. The smoked dial is available in black, grey or blue, and has a date window at 6 o’clock.
Suitable for any adventure or any style, the strap or bracelet of every model in the Autavia collection is interchangeable. The leather calfskin straps come in dark brown or light brown. A NATO strap is included in the watch box of the timepieces that are presented on a stainless-steel bracelet. The bracelet and strap are easy to switch at home using simple push buttons on the underside of the case – no tools are necessary.
The NATO straps, leather straps and stainless-steel bracelets are sold separately, so wearers can create their own combinations to complement their unique look.
Bold in bronze
In addition to the stainless-steel Autavia three-hand models, TAG Heuer has also launched two versions in bronze. The 42 mm timepieces with bronze cases feature a smoked green or brown dial with a bidirectional rotating bezel in black or brown ceramic, respectively. The model with the brown dial and brown ceramic bezel is presented on a brown leather strap, while the model with the green dial and black ceramic bezel is presented on a khaki-coloured leather strap. The caseback of these timepieces is fashioned from titanium.
TAG Heuer’s DNA is clearly visible in this new watch family. Inspired by earlier successes, the new Autavia collection has its own authentic identity but remains true to the original models that made their own mark in the TAG Heuer universe and timekeeping history.
