Heuer Autavia 11630 MH Orange Boy Vintage Chronograph

Big Tobacco has historically not seen as doing a whole heap of good for the world, unless that is you're into motorsport, or happen to be a fan of Heuer watches. The first association may be straightforward, with some of the most iconic liveries, ad campaigns, and corresponding images of racing hero's doing heroic things in motor vehicles intrinsically linked with tobacco sponsorship. Less known is their association with Heuer, who already had an unsurpassed reputation amongst the motorsport fraternity, but who were largely unknown to the watch buying public. That all changed in 1971 when they collaborated with Viceroy Tobacco, with the resulting promotion thrusting Heuer into the watch buying lexicon, and in all likelihood saving the company from collapse.

The result of this collaboration with Viceroy was a modified Autavia, which now featured brushed hands with red accents, 12 numerals on the hour subdial, and a tachymetre bezel previously seen on the Siffert models only. The previously relatively poor-selling Autavia was now a huge success, and the love for it has only grown over the years.

Building on this new found success, the 1163 was updated to become the 11630 in 1972, and now featured a wider bezel with tritium pip at 12, plex rather than mineral glass, and a slightly larger case. It also was now available with a striking orange and black colour scheme, known as the 'Orange Boy', and is the version we have here today.

Dating from the early 70's, this particular piece presents in excellent vintage condition. Case is sharp, with even lugs. Shows some small dings, dents and scratches commensurate with its age. Lower right chrono pusher has the plating worn off its top. Please see images for full condition details.

Dial is in stellar condition, with light patina on the subdials and around some of the hour markers. Tritium is in place, and glows brightly under UV and drops off quickly and at an even rate. Hands show some degradation, but remain full.

Comes mounted on an aftermarket mesh bracelet which suits it perfectly.

Serviced in 2021. Date begins changeover around 11 and completes at midnight. Chrono starts, stops and resets as it should. Keeping excellent time, and the movement looks very clean.

Comes with Watch Vault cleaning cloth and Watch Vault travel pod. No box or papers.

Spectacular example of a highly sought after and rarely seen vintage chrono from Heuer.

Brand: Heuer

Year: 1970's

Model #: 11630 MH

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case details: 43mm

Movement: Heuer self-winding chronograph Calibre 12

Dial: Black with orange accents

Paraphernalia: Watch Vault Cleaning Cloth, Watch Vault Travel Pod

Grading: Excellent vintage condition

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see here for details.

BONUS Watch Vault leather watch pouch with each watch purchased directly from our website. If you’d like a specific colour please let us know at checkout, otherwise one will be selected at random and included with your watch.