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Vintage Heuer Discussion Forum
The place for discussing 1930-1985 Heuer wristwatches, chronographs and dash-mounted timepieces. Online since May 2003. | |||||||
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I recently purchased a 1972 Autavia 1163 V.
Appears to be in good condition with few case dings and nice bezel with maybe a bit of fading. I believe unpolished case. Crystal has quite a few scratches, but not cracked. Lume is intact with slight yellowing.
Watch functions well, although I believe it may run a bit slow - maybe a minute per day. Chrono function and pushers work as expected.
The story behind the watch was the owner died in 1983 and the widow gifted it, along with other unique items, to a family friend also in 1983. The watch remained unworn and placed in a box since 1983 with an occasional viewing.
My goal is to keep the watch and wear on occasion in rotation with other watches.
I do have concern about old seals letting in water/humidity and potential dried out lube. I've read that old watches like this should be serviced to prevent premature wear.
I am looking for recommendations (preferably USA-based) to perform service on the watch with access to any potential parts. Maybe replace or refresh the crystal, but keep the overall vintage look in-tact. Of course, I would listen to the advice of the watchmaker, as they are the expert. I am located in Missouri.
I searched the forums with recommendations for Craig Bergsma at Chronodeco. Unfortunately, he is no longer taking on new customers.
Any other recommendations?
Thank you.
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