Given that it's going to take me longer than I thought to put up the interview with JC Biver, I thought that I'd give a quick answer to the questions on the Autavia.

As the title of the thread says, the new Autavia will be powered by the Calibre CH80, which as we guessed a few months back, will be renamed the Calibre Heuer-03. While the initial run will be small, the Heuer-03 will then be offered in the standard TAG Heuer range from 2018/ 2019. There are no major changes between the CH80 and Heuer-03.

For 2017 there will be just one model offered- the Black dial with the white sub-dials. Expect a case size of 41mm, and while I didn't specifically ask the question, I'd certainly expect a date function too. Could there be other colour dials? Yes, but after a year or so. Not initially.

So, why will TAG Heuer make a larger case size and add a date when the original was 39mm and had no date? Biver was very strong on this- had no interest in making an exact copy. The original stays the original, and the vintage collectors can stick with that knowing there is no modern copy. The new watch is made for 2017, and while it takes its style from the past, they do not want to repeat what happened with the Silverstone- i.e. vintage collectors argue the case for an exact re-edition and then don't buy it when it comes out because it, because they're only into vintage! Can't win.

More soon, but wanted to share the Autavia news!

 

Yes, understand your view- I'd also prefer 39mm and like you, not because I want a copy.

 

Thanks for the update! Was there confirmation on using the Heuer logo and a rotating bezel? Will this be limited / numbered?

 

I didn't cover those off, but you can safely bet on the Heuer logo.

 

I for one, am excited about this direction. I want a reenvisioning of classic models, but with calculated design improvements. Not everything was perfect from origin. In its core, I want a reliable automatic chronograph movement that can handle shock/vibration, pressured water resistance, and be immune to magnetic interference. The case, strap and bracelet should be constructed of fine sophisticated alloys that are scratch resistant, light weight, comfortable, and most importantly attractive. Add a convex (non-glassbox / non-domed) sapphire crystal, all packaged in a larger size (41mm or above is my preference) and you have what should be the direct lineage of the classics.

 

Forgot to add- JC Biver also flagged the intention to develop other variants of the CH80/ Calibre Heuer-03. We've already had the Heuer-02T.

He specifically mentioned the possibility of a 3-hand watch movement

 

Do you think possibly a GMT variant? Or just a traditional 3-hand?

 

I think all options are possible

 

Prototype of the 2017 Heuer Autavia re-edition- the final watch will use the CH80/ Heuer-03 movement. Photo by @heuerchrono

 

Do I see a "glassbox" dome crystal?

 

Here's a better angle from another picture in Instagram:

 

Another one:

 

So here's a picture of what appears to be an old one to compare:

 

https://monochrome-watches.com/excl...r-autavia-2017-the-result-of-the-autavia-cup/