Conquering land and air—TAG Heuer goes back in time with the new Autavia collection

Vintage watch lovers, your time has come. Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer has gone back in time—over half a century, in fact—to recreate its original Autavia models that date back to the early 60s. The new generation Autavia collection takes inspiration from the original Autavia models to appeal to a new generation of explorers who desire a watch that captures the spirit of intrepid adventure and blends it with state-of-the-art high-precision timekeeping.

The newly reintroduced timepieces make up a stand-alone collection of models that boast the versatility, ruggedness and reliability that characterized the original Autavia watches.

Drawing inspiration from the original design, 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. Each Autavia is powered by the COSC-certified Calibre 5 automatic movement, delivering outstanding precision and reliability in any conditions.

Bridging the gap between past and future—and between land and air

As one of the original pillars of the brand, it was fitting that the Autavia collection was recently reintroduced into TAG Heuer’s selection of contemporary timepieces created for an active lifestyle. From 1933 to 1957, the Autavia was a dashboard instrument used in racing cars and aircrafts. 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. 

Popular among motoring enthusiasts and armed forces around the world, the Autavia enjoyed great success and a sterling reputation until production ceased in 1985. 

Timeless vintage feel in a contemporary style

TAG Heuer’s stylish, cockpit-inspired watch features eye-catching elements that are rooted in history. 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. 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. 

The dial is capped by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment, water-resistant to 100m. The hour markers and hour, minute and seconds hands are coated in Super-LumiNova, making it possible to read the time even in the dark. The smoked dial is available in black, grey or blue, and has a date window at 6 o’clock.

Powering the Autavia three-hand timepieces is the COSC-certified Calibre 5 with a 38-hour power reserve. The evocative images of a propeller and tyre are etched into the stainless steel caseback that covers the automatic-winding mechanical movement.

Bold in bronze

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.

Bronze is not only elegant and characteristically timeless, it is also rugged and ready for a lifestyle that includes the great outdoors, each case telling a unique story through the ever-changing patina that naturally develops on the bronze over time, based on the wearer’s habits.

Customizable looks with straps and bracelets

Suitable for any adventure or any style, the strap or bracelet of every model in the Autavia collection is interchangeable. The leather calfskin straps come in dark brown or light brown. A NATO strap is included in the watch box of the timepieces that are presented on a stainless-steel bracelet. The bracelet and strap are easy to switch at home using simple push buttons on the underside of the case – no tools are necessary. The NATO straps, leather straps and stainless-steel bracelets are sold separately, so wearers can create their own combinations to complement their unique look.

The DNA of TAG Heuer is clearly expressed in this avant-garde watch family. Inspired by earlier successes, the Autavia collection has its own authentic identity but remains true to the original models that made their mark on the brand’s timekeeping history.