Finally got a chance to take some detailed shots of my Jochen Rindt 2446 Autavia and figured I would share them here in case anyone is curious. To me, the early screwback Autavias are the quintessence of 60's F1 racing chronographs, and the Autavias have a very tangible history with F1 that goes beyond "revisionist history" marketing. For those who aren't familiar, the "Jochen Rindt" Autavia is the second execution of the screwback era Autavias and featured a bi-directional minute bezel, a perfectly proportioned (to me) inverse panda Singer dial, pump pushers, and applied hour markers with lume at the base. The case size at 38.8mm wears perfectly, and the slightly longer tapered lugs (with gorgeous chamfers) ensure that no matter the wrist size, it has a sizable (for vintage) presence. Inside it's powered by the Valjoux 72, and bridge is signed Heuer-Leonidas. Was very lucky to snag this one, as the examples that have popped up infrequently over the past year are typically missing lume, have discolored hands, or an overly polished case. This one is about as close to a time capsule as you can find, and if I can manage to find an OEM crystal (this one has a few scratches), I would dare to call it the definition of "Excellent" on a price guide. Enjoy a few pics!
That watch is a real stunner! I think it has everything desirable in a vintage watch; rarity, beauty and condition. Congrats to a very, very nice addition to the collection!
Thanks, guys! The original pictures were absolutely horrendous, but as soon as I saw the listing, I knew I'd pay whatever it took to secure it. Such a great era for sports chonographs, between the pre-moon Speedies, Carreras/Autavias, Compaxes, Daytonas, etc etc. Also, just for fun, here was the main listing picture:
Awesome piece! Love it. Dibs. Not joking about that. First and second execution 2446s in good condition are super hard to find. I've come across very few for sale, and of that very few are in a condition worth purchasing. Congrats. Wear it often.
Thanks so much, it's certainly a gem. And I agree. I've wanted one for a while, but it seemed like the ones that would pop up for sale either had no lume, messed up hands, or a polished case (or all three). Patience is a virtue, I suppose!
Incredible! What a find! A great looking piece with a great history. Congratulations and I like the strap as well! Wear it in good health! Jeff
Thanks for all the notes, gents. They're much appreciated! Ha, people can lay claim to "dibs" all they want, but chances are quite good that this one never leaves my collection. I doubt I would be able to find another in this condition if I ever let go of it.
Saw this one on eBay and knew it was a gem. Bad pictures, scratchy crystal. A lot of buyers stayed away. Kudos for your diligence and research Rob, and congrats to a fine and rare beauty!!
