Drawing on its history to forge a new path, TAG Heuer's latest collection draws inspiration from the original Autavia models and uses cutting-edge watchmaking technology to appeal to a new generation of adventurers.La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland - March 2019: TAG Heuer is relaunching the Autavia model, but this time as a separate collection under its own name to present a range of models that enhance the versatility, endurance and reliability for which the original Autavia watches produced in the 1960s were renowned. Using the innovative carbon composite hairspring that distinguishes each piece as an Isograph, the avant-garde watch brand builds on the foundations of its heritage to continue the saga.
Bridging the gap between the past and the future
As one of the pillars of the brand, it is not surprising that TAG Heuer has chosen the Autavia model to launch a new collection under its own name, joining the existing collections of the Carrera, Monaco, Formula 1, Aquaracer and Link lines. Between 1933 and 1957, the Autavia was an instrument used on the dashboards of racing cars and in aircraft cockpits. Its very name comes from the combination of the words automobile and aviation. When the Autavia dashboard instrument was discontinued, the name remained available and Jack Heuer, CEO of TAG Heuer at the time, decided to use it for the wrist chronograph that the Swiss watch brand launched in 1962. Immediately recognisable and legible in all circumstances, this innovative new timepiece perfectly represented the energy and excitement of motor racing. Popular with motor racing enthusiasts and members of the armed forces around the world, the Autavia model enjoyed great success and an unblemished reputation until it was discontinued in 1985. Today, TAG Heuer is relaunching the Autavia, but this time as a seven-piece collection designed to convey the bold and adventurous spirit that characterised the iconic original Autavia.
The universe of the Autavia model in a contemporary style
TAG Heuer's modern watch, inspired by aircraft cockpit instruments, features eye-catching elements that allude to the history of this iconic model. Everything that fascinated fans of the original watch, such as its functionality, timeless style and countless combinations, is also present in the seven new models presented at Baselworld. The stainless-steel Autavia watches with a diameter of 42 mm and three hands feature the first-generation Autavia case and bevelled lugs from the 1960s. A bi-directional 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 is inspired by the watches worn by motor racing drivers, which featured oversized crowns for ease of use when wearing gloves. The original Autavia also had a reputation for being highly legible in all circumstances, something the 2019 versions share. The hour, minute and second hands and indices are coated with SuperLuminova®, making them legible even in the dark. The smoked dial is available in black, grey or blue, and features a date window at 6 o'clock.
Compatible with any adventure or style, the strap or bracelet of each model in the Autavia collection is interchangeable. The calfskin straps come in dark brown or light brown. The Autavia models with stainless steel bracelet come in a case that also includes a NATO strap. The bracelet and strap can be easily exchanged using the pushers on the underside of the case, so no tools are required.
NATO straps, leather straps and stainless steel bracelets are sold separately, so customers can create their own combinations to complement their unique style.
Legacy and cutting-edge technology
Autavia watches feature a Calibre 5 movement with official chronometer certification. The original Autavia watch was known for its state-of-the-art technology, and these models are no different. The new pieces in the Autavia collection feature the innovative carbon composite hairspring that the avant-garde Swiss watch brand introduced earlier this year. The combination of the calibre and the carbon composite hairspring lends the Isograph distinction to each model in this collection. The trademark is derived from the Greek wordiso, which means «equal» and refers to the stable and uniform movement of the component.
Known to be the heart of every mechanical watch for its direct impact on overall precision, the hairspring is the most difficult part to manufacture. A team of mathematicians, physicists and scientists at TAG Heuer are behind the creation of this newly invented hairspring. The carbon hairspring will not only revolutionise traditional watchmaking, but also improve the performance of watches using this patented technology. Among the main benefits provided by TAG Heuer's carbon composite hairspring are its lightness and low density, which not only makes it virtually immune to gravity and impact, but also completely anti-magnetic. Perfectly concentric oscillations are made possible by the geometry of the hairspring, which enhances the watch's precision. By combining the carbon composite hairspring with an aluminium alloy balance wheel, optimum thermal behaviour and aeroelasticity have been achieved. In addition, the carbon composite hairspring is manufactured with the ferrule already attached. TAG Heuer is the exclusive manufacturer of these springs, which are designed and produced in its own laboratory in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
The propeller and tyre engraved on the back of the stainless steel or titanium case are a reference to the collection's fruitful heritage.
Striking in bronze
In addition to the three-hand Autavia models in stainless steel, TAG Heuer also presents two bronze versions. The 42 mm watches with bronze cases feature a green or smoky brown dial with a bi-directional rotating bezel in black or brown ceramic respectively. The model with the brown dial and brown ceramic bezel is fitted with a brown leather strap, while the model with the green dial and black ceramic bezel is available with a khaki-coloured leather strap. The case backs of both watches are made of titanium.
TAG Heuer's DNA is clearly visible in this new family of watches. Inspired by the successes of the past, the new Autavia collection has its own authentic identity while remaining faithful to the models that created its own mark in the TAG Heuer universe and in watchmaking history.
