1971 Heuer Autavia 1163 'Derek Bell'
The Purist's Chronograph
$6100.00
The Heuer Autavia 1163 stands as one of the most significant pillars of 1970s motorsport horology. This specific execution, famously associated with British racing driver and five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell, represents the model in its most refined, early form.
Produced before the high-volume "Viceroy" promotion of 1972, this "Pre-Viceroy" dial is defined by its sophisticated 3-6-9-12 layout on the hour register—a detail highly coveted by collectors for its balanced, instrumental aesthetic.
Condition and Provenance:
Case: The case remains unpolished. The original factory brushing is still visible on the top surfaces, complemented by the sharp, defined bevels that characterize the 42mm Autavia silhouette. There are some light surface straches throughout the case from normal wear. On the caseback there are also some tool marks from case opening. The crown is signed and the pushers are correct.
Dial: The star of this piece is the natural "Tropical" transformation. Over the last five decades, the original matte black surface has aged into a rich, warm tobacco brown. This organic patination is uniform and vibrant, ensuring no two examples are exactly alike. Of note, there is some 'ghosting / staining' on the right sub-register around the black hand.
Bezel: Features the period-correct "Minutes/Hours" (MH) bezel, showing honest wear consistent with a tool watch of this era.
Movement: Powered by the legendary Calibre 11, the world’s first automatic chronograph movement with the signature left-hand crown—a mechanical milestone of the "Project 99" consortium. The movement is working well for it's age and has been serviced by the previous owner in the past 2 years.
Specifications:
Diameter: 42mm (Thickness: 15 mm)
Crystal: High-domed Acrylic / Plexiglass
Movement: Heuer (Buren) Caliber 11 automatic
Strap: matching calf-leather strap
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No
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