TAG Heuer takes design cues from the original Autavia models of the mid-1900s to create its newest watch line for today’s modern explorer.
Sure, it’s all well and good to have a luxury timepiece that’s a symphony of complicated gears, movements, balance wheels and cogs – but at the end of the day, most guys don’t wear much in the way of jewellery so what little we do go with we want to strike the right balance between luxury and versatility.
So, it is with the new TAG Heuer Autavia line, a stand-alone collection of watches designed for today’s adventure-seeking explorer – that’s you, buddy.
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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 then-CEO Jack Heuer decided to use it for the chronograph wristwatch the Swiss watchmaker launched in 1962.
Drawing inspiration from the original Autavia watch design of the 1960s, which was valued by both drivers and pilots, the new Autavia models offer quality, precision and timeless style.
Seven models make up the sporty Autavia collection – five in sleek stainless steel and two in noble bronze. Wearers can choose from a range of strap options and thanks to their innovative easy-change system, they can switch from leather to metal or fabric on the go.
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 new models. The stainless-steel Autavia 42mm three-hand 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, while 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 contemporary versions.
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The hour markers and hour, minute and seconds hands are coated in Super-LumiNova, 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.
In addition to the stainless-steel Autavia three-hand models, TAG Heuer also carries two versions in bronze. The 42mm timepieces feature a fumé 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.
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Each Autavia is powered by the COSC-certified Calibre 5 automatic movement, delivering outstanding precision and reliability in any conditions. The images of a propeller and tyre are etched into the stainless steel caseback that covers the automatic-winding mechanical movement.
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