The new Tag Heuer Autavia collection brings back a classic racing-inspired wristwatch and imbues it with the same carbon composite technology that debuted in the Carrera Heuer 02T Tourbillon Nanograph earlier this year.
The Autavia was a originally a dashboard-mounted timer used in race cars and aircraft throughout the mid-20th century. Its very name is a combination of the words “automobile” and “aviation.”
In 1962, then-CEO Jack Heuer decided to incorporate the instrument into the Swiss watchmaker’s chronographic watches, thus launching the Tag Heuer Autavia.
Like the recently released Monaco 50, the Autavia stays true to its ancestral model while offering modern features.
Available in stainless steel or bronze, the timepiece features the same rounded case from the first-gen Autavia, 60s-style bevelled lugs, and a bidirectional rotating bezel available in black ceramic, blue ceramic or stainless steel.
In accordance with its namesake, the Autavia boasts an oversized crown to make it easier for pilots or drivers to operate while wearing gloves.
A decorative propeller and tire etching adorns the caseback, and a SuperLuminova finish on all three hands ensures legibility in low light.
Don’t let its vintage touches deceive you—the Autavia is powered by a chronometer-certified Calibre 5 movement with Tag Heuer’s exclusive carbon-composite hairspring at its heart.
The luxe timepieces are available with blue, black or gray dials and either a colored calfskin leather strap or stainless steel bracelet.
If you’re still not totally sold, just check out how great it looks on actor-turned-race car driver Patrick Dempsey.
Starting at $3,500, the Tag Heuer Autavia collection and is available to order online.
