Over the past couple of years, we have seen a veritable explosion of the number of watches given increasingly superfluous nicknames, particularly where Rolex is concerned. Batmans, Batgirls, Blueberries; as soon as a new model is released, someone is attempting to give it a nickname. That is not inherently a bad thing, but in this blog we thought we would highlight a pair of nicknamed watches that are connected by marriage. Meet the Rindts: Jochen Rindt and Evil Nina.
Jochen Rindt
Firstly, the Heuer Autavia reference 2446, otherwise known as the ‘Jochen Rindt’. Named after the Austrian Formula 1 driver that continues to be the only posthumous F1 champion, the watch was frequently found on his wrist. Unfortunately, Rindt tragically lost his life in a fatal crash at the Italian ‘Temple of Speed’ Monza in 1970. The Autavia is a stunning and classic watch. Highly legible, the watch
features a calibrated bezel and three large subdials. It is powered by the renowned Valjoux 72. The watches connection to Rindt has helped it stay in the spotlight, but it is a brilliant watch, as most Heuers of this time are.
Evil Nina
Secondly, the other watch we are highlighting today has an association with Rindt’s wife, Nina. Nina was unique attraction on the Formula 1 circuit. A model and socialite in her own right, Nina could frequently be found at races supporting her husband. She was noted for sporting a Universal Geneve Compax on her wrist, which bears a striking resemblance to her husband’s watch, featuring a ‘panda’ dial. Like the Heuer it is powered by the Valjoux 72. This watch has gained a lot of interest of late, in part because for so long it had gone relatively under the radar. Universal Geneve created some incredibly fascinating watches during their heyday, making significant use of micro-rotors. They have recently been revived by Breitling and are beginning to re-introduce their classic models.
So why is this Nina evil? A variation on this model features a black dial, with white subsidiary registers and a striking red chronograph seconds hand. It is definitely a looker and catches the eye no matter what wrist it is on. While Nina Rindt does not appear to have worn this model, the connection to the other model has led to it gaining this striking nickname.
Jochen Rindt and Evil Nina watches at auction
We have both an Evil Nina and a Jochen Rindt in our upcoming Watches auction. Taking place on the 12th December, both watches are lovely examples. The Evil Nina is in superb condition and features a signed crystal, lovely aged lume plots and is on a signed Gay Freres bracelet. It has estimates of £8,000-12,000. The Autavia is a good vintage example, showing its age without detracting from the watch. It has estimates of £3,000-4,000. The Evil Nina and Jochen Rindt would be wonderful additions to anyone's collection.
Watches | Thursday 12th December 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Wednesday 11th December 10:00-16:00
Thursday 12th December 8:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Newsletter Signup
Newsletter
