'Siffert' 1163T Heuer Autavia

The Heuer ‘Siffert’, or properly the Autavia ref. 1163, arrived in 1969 as Heuer’s answer to a new era of automatic chronographs. The reference family shows up in Heuer catalogues a touch earlier, the watershed years when the brand debuted its automatic Calibre 11/12 Autavias alongside other iconic models like the Monaco. The 1163 case is the larger, chunky Autavia update, with a bi-directional bezel and the plastic domed crystal that collectors immediately swoon for.

A different 1163T example from the one in market now (pictured first), on-wrist photography courtesy of a prior Hodinkee listing. 

Siffert, an F1 driver from 1962 until his tragic accident in 1971, became on of Heuer’s earliest and most effective ambassords around 1969 after Jack Heuer stuck an early sponsorship with him on the gred. Siffert not only wore an 1163 at seeming all times (there are photos of him in the pits, in the full race suit, and in a 911 dress casually all wearing his same Heuer), but carried the shield on his overalls. He even introduced McQueen to Heuer in preparation for Le Mans; Siffert was who they got the 917s from. All this cemented Heuer’s dominance in racing. His Heuer of choice was an early automatic Autavia with a panda dial and blue accents.

It's estimated roughly 1,000-1,500 Sifferts were made. Sifferts can vary by their shield size (smaller earlier), hour markers (serrated vs smooth), hand types, subdial numerals, and many other tells. The very earliest say Chronomatic above the shield, which was the initial marketing push for the first few months until Jack Heuer realized his customers had no idea what it meant. This is a Mark 4 circa 71, but they’re all quite lovely. Particularly when there’s a Gay Freres BoR bracelet involved. That said, perhaps the greatest joy the Siffert is the value. There’s an immense weight of motorsport history, damn good looks which are almost playful, and relatively accessible entry. The watch world needs pieces which are interesting that can genuinely excited new entrants for a reason outlay, particularly vintage. The Autavia is one such chronograph, unapologetically 70s and sexy.

Siffert about to take a lap, courtesy of Monochrome.

This example has a magnificent case with excellent brushing, bevels, and back. The dial shows lovely patina which is light, even, and a touch pumpkin. It comes with a Gay Freres beads of rice, Heuer signed. Few are as lovely.