TAG Heuer, a name synonymous with precision and innovation in the realm of luxury watches, has once again pushed the boundaries of horological artistry with its latest release: the Carrera Chronograph Precious collection. These new timepieces are a testament to TAG Heuer's dedication to craftsmanship, blending the sporty heritage of the Carrera line with a refined, luxurious aesthetic. Each watch in this collection is a marvel of design and engineering, embodying the brand's commitment to excellence and its ability to fuse functionality with sheer opulence. The introduction of these watches marks a significant moment in TAG Heuer's history, showcasing the brand's evolution while paying homage to its rich legacy in watchmaking.
The
TAG Heuer Carrera collection, since its inception in 1963, has been a cornerstone of the brand's identity. Named after the perilous Carrera Panamericana road race, the Carrera was designed by Jack Heuer himself, with a focus on readability and functionality. Over the decades, the Carrera has evolved, incorporating new technologies and materials, yet it has always remained true to its original purpose: to be the ultimate tool watch for professional drivers and watch enthusiasts alike. The new Carrera Chronograph Precious watches are the latest chapter in this storied history, bringing a fresh perspective to the iconic design while maintaining the performance and precision that define the Carrera line.
Courtesy of TAG Heuer
One of the most striking features of these new timepieces is the "glassbox" design, a nod to the original Carrera models from the 1960s. This design element, characterized by a domed sapphire crystal that extends over the edge of the case, not only enhances the watch's vintage appeal but also improves the legibility of the dial. The crystal's curvature allows for a clearer view of the dial from various angles, ensuring that the time can be read quickly and accurately, a crucial feature for a chronograph designed with racing in mind. The modern interpretation of the glassbox design incorporates a diamond-set flange and chaton diamond indexes, adding a layer of luxury and sophistication to the watch's sporty silhouette. The seamless integration of diamonds into the functional aspects of the dial exemplifies TAG Heuer's ability to blend form and function in a way that is both beautiful and practical.
The collection offers two distinct variations, each with its own unique character. The first features a
Deep Blue dial, reminiscent of the vast expanse of the ocean, while the second boasts a delicate powdery pink hue, evoking a sense of understated. Both dials are finished with a circular-brushed pattern that creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, adding depth and texture to the watch's face. This meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of TAG Heuer's craftsmanship, transforming the dial into a canvas that captures and reflects light in a captivating manner. The bi-compax layout of the subdials, with chronograph counters at 3 and 9 o'clock, maintains the Carrera's classic aesthetic while ensuring optimal readability. The rhodium-plated hands further enhance the dial's clarity, providing a striking contrast against the colored backdrop.
The case of each watch, measuring 39mm in diameter, strikes a perfect balance between presence and wearability. This size is versatile enough to suit a variety of wrist sizes, making these watches a suitable choice for both men and women who appreciate fine timepieces. The fine-brushed and polished steel case exudes a sense of understated luxury, its sleek lines and refined finish reflecting the watch's dual nature as both a functional instrument and a piece of jewelry. The absence of a traditional bezel allows the domed sapphire crystal to take center stage, creating a seamless transition from the case to the dial.
Courtesy of TAG Heuer
Adorning the flange of each watch are 72 diamonds, totaling 0.45 carats, which add a radiant sparkle to the timepiece. These diamonds are not merely decorative; they are meticulously integrated into the design, enhancing the watch's luxurious appeal while maintaining its sporty essence. The 11 chaton diamond indexes, each totaling 0.107 carats, are set along the inner flange, their curved shape mirroring the arc of the crystal. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the diamonds catch the light from every angle, creating a dazzling display of brilliance that complements the dial's circular-brushed finish.
Powering these exquisite timepieces is the TH20-00, TAG Heuer's in-house automatic chronograph movement. This caliber is an evolution of the renowned Heuer 02 movement, known for its precision and reliability. With a vertical clutch, column wheel, and bidirectional automatic rewinding, the TH20-00 offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve, ensuring that the watch will continue to run accurately even after being left unworn for several days. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, allowing wearers to admire the intricate workings of the mechanism. The new shield-shaped rotor and bidirectional mass are beautifully finished, showcasing the brand's commitment to both technical excellence and aesthetic refinement.
The watches are paired with luxurious straps that enhance their overall appeal. The blue dial model comes with a dark blue alligator leather strap, its rich texture providing a sophisticated contrast to the cool steel and sparkling diamonds. The powdery pink dial version is fitted with a matching pink calfskin leather strap, offering a softer, more feminine touch. Both straps feature a polished steel folding clasp and an interchangeable mechanism, allowing wearers to customize their watch with different strap options. TAG Heuer will also offer additional strap choices, including a white alligator and a gray alligator strap, providing even more versatility and personalization options.
Courtesy of TAG Heuer
The way the light plays off the circular-brushed dial, the subtle gleam of the polished steel case, and the dazzling sparkle of the diamonds all speak to the high level of craftsmanship that went into creating these pieces. The seamless integration of the diamonds into the functional aspects of the dial, such as the flange and indexes, is particularly noteworthy. It's a design choice that elevates the watch beyond a mere timekeeping device, transforming it into a piece of wearable art. The domed sapphire crystal, with its vintage-inspired "glassbox" design, not only enhances the watch's aesthetic appeal but also improves its legibility, a crucial factor for a chronograph.
The TH20-00 movement, visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, would be another point of interest. Its intricate workings, with the new shield-shaped rotor and bidirectional mass, are a testament to TAG Heuer's technical prowess. The 80-hour power reserve is a practical feature that adds to the watch's appeal, ensuring that it will continue to run accurately even after being left unworn for a few days.
The blue dial model, with its deep, rich hue, is a striking timepiece. The circular-brushed finish creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, giving the dial a sense of depth and texture. The rhodium-plated hands provide excellent contrast, ensuring that the time can be read easily at a glance. The 72 diamonds on the flange add a touch of brilliance, their sparkle catching the eye without overwhelming the dial's overall design. The dark blue alligator leather strap completes the look, its luxurious texture adding a tactile element to the watch's appeal.
Courtesy of TAG Heuer
The powdery pink dial version offers a softer, more feminine aesthetic. The delicate hue is both and sophisticated, and the circular-brushed finish adds a subtle shimmer that enhances the dial's beauty. The diamond-set flange and indexes sparkle brilliantly against the pink backdrop, creating a captivating display of light and color. The pink calfskin leather strap is a perfect match, its soft texture and subtle pearlescent effect complementing the watch's luxurious design.
TAG Heuer has a long and storied history of innovation in watchmaking, dating back to its founding in 1860. The brand has been responsible for numerous advancements in chronograph technology, including the oscillating
Pinion in 1887 and the Mikrograph in 1916. In 1969, TAG Heuer introduced the Calibre 11, one of the first automatic-winding chronograph movements, solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in the field. The Carrera collection, launched in 1963, was a testament to Jack Heuer's vision of creating a chronograph that was both functional and . The collection quickly became a favorite among racing drivers and watch enthusiasts alike, thanks to its clean design, excellent legibility, and reliable performance.
The new Carrera Chronograph Precious watches build upon this legacy, incorporating the latest in watchmaking technology while paying homage to the collection's rich history. The "glassbox" design, with its domed sapphire crystal, is a nod to the original Carrera models from the 1960s. The modern interpretation of this design element, with its diamond-set flange and chaton diamond indexes, adds a layer of luxury and sophistication that is sure to appeal to today's discerning watch buyers.
Courtesy of TAG Heuer
The TH20-00 movement, with its vertical clutch, column wheel, and bidirectional automatic rewinding, is a testament to TAG Heuer's continued commitment to innovation. This in-house movement offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve and is finished to the highest standards, with a new shield-shaped rotor and bidirectional mass that are visible through the sapphire crystal caseback. The movement's precision and reliability ensure that these watches are not only beautiful but also highly functional, capable of keeping accurate time even under demanding conditions.
The pricing for these exceptional timepieces reflects their quality and craftsmanship. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph in blue (CBS2214.FC6567) is priced at $8,700, while the pink version (CBS2215.FC6568) is available for $8,600. These watches are available for purchase online on TAG Heuer's site for select countries, as well as in 260 TAG Heuer boutiques and 2,300 points of sale worldwide.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph - BlueCase: 39mm diameter, 13.9mm thickness, 20.7mm lug width. Fine-brushed and polished steel case. Bezel-free construction with domed glassbox sapphire crystal. Steel crown and pushers. Water resistant to 100 meters.
Movement: TH20-00 caliber, automatic chronograph movement. In-house movement with an 80-hour power reserve. Balance frequency of 28,800 (4Hz). Functions include hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph with 1/4 second, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, and date.
Dial: Blue circular brushed dial. 72 diamond-set flange (0.45 carats) and 11 chaton-set diamond hour markers (0.107 carats). Blue "azurage" counters. Applied indexes. Rhodium-plated hands. Features "CARRERA" and "TAG Heuer" branding.
Strap: Dark blue alligator leather strap. Polished steel folding clasp. Interchangeable strap mechanism.
Price: $8,700.00
Reference Number: CBS2214.FC6567
Notes: Features the innovative Glassbox design. Marries sporty essence with diamonds set against signature blue.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph - PinkCase: 39mm diameter, 13.9mm thickness, 20.7mm lug width. Fine-brushed and polished steel case. Bezel-free construction with domed glassbox sapphire crystal. Steel crown and pushers. Water resistant to 100 meters.
Movement: TH20-00 caliber, automatic chronograph movement. In-house movement with an 80-hour power reserve. Balance frequency of 28,800 (4Hz). Functions include hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph with 1/4 second, 30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, and date.
Dial: Powdery pink circular brushed dial. 72 diamond-set flange (0.45 carats) and 11 chaton-set diamond hour markers (0.107 carats). Applied indexes, possibly rhodium-plated hands. Features "CARRERA" and "TAG Heuer" branding.
Strap: Pink calfskin leather strap with subtle pearlescent effect. Polished steel folding clasp. Interchangeable strap mechanism.
Price: $8,600.00
Reference Number: CBS2215.FC6568
Notes: Captures essence of femininity and racing spirit. Features soft pink dial set against brilliance of diamonds. Online exclusivity with complimentary travel pouch.