TAG Heuer x Time+Tide Aquaracer Solargraph Sundowner

In the world of watch collaborations, there's always an element of excitement, a sense of anticipation for something truly unique and special. When two powerhouses like TAG Heuer, a giant in Swiss watchmaking, and Time+Tide, a dynamic force in watch media, join forces, the result is bound to be noteworthy. The TAG Heuer x Time+Tide Aquaracer Solargraph Sundowner is a testament to this, a watch that embodies the spirit of adventure, the allure of the Australian outback, and the pursuit of horological excellence.



TAG Heuer's history is intertwined with the world of motorsports and precision timekeeping. Founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, the company quickly established itself as a pioneer in chronograph technology. From the iconic Carrera to the groundbreaking Monaco, TAG Heuer has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, creating timepieces that are both technically advanced and aesthetically captivating. The Aquaracer collection, first introduced in 1982, is a testament to TAG Heuer's commitment to creating robust and reliable sports watches. Designed to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration, the Aquaracer has become synonymous with durability and performance.



Time+Tide, founded in 2014, has rapidly become a leading voice in the watch media landscape. Their approach is refreshingly accessible, catering to seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. With a focus on insightful storytelling and engaging content, Time+Tide has fostered a vibrant community of watch enthusiasts. Their passion for horology is evident in everything they do, from their in-depth articles and videos to their innovative events and collaborations.



The story of the Aquaracer Solargraph Sundowner began with a conversation, a meeting of minds between Time+Tide founder Andrew McUtchen and then-TAG Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault. The spark was ignited by McUtchen's personal affinity for the Aquaracer Solargraph, a watch he admired for its technological prowess and distinctive aesthetics. The idea was to create a watch that captured the essence of the Australian landscape, a timepiece that would resonate with adventurers and watch aficionados alike.



Before we delve into the specifics of the Sundowner edition, it's worth taking a closer look at the Aquaracer Solargraph that laid the foundation for this collaboration. Launched in 2022, the Solargraph was a game-changer, a watch that seamlessly blended cutting-edge solar technology with TAG Heuer's renowned design language. The watch's standout feature is its translucent dial, a mesmerizing surface that seems to absorb and reflect light with equal intensity. Beneath this captivating dial lies a solar-powered movement, a marvel of engineering that offers months of power reserve on just hours of exposure to light.



The Aquaracer Solargraph Sundowner takes the core elements of the Solargraph and infuses them with a distinctly Australian flavor. The watch's name is a nod to the Australian tradition of enjoying a drink as the sun dips below the horizon, a moment of relaxation and camaraderie. The Sundowner's color palette is inspired by the warm hues of the Australian sunset, with rose gold accents adding a touch of luxury to the watch's rugged design.



The Sundowner's case is crafted from grade 2 titanium, a lightweight yet durable material that is perfectly suited for an adventure watch. The sandblasted finish adds a tactical edge, while the 40mm diameter ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes. The unidirectional bezel, a hallmark of the Aquaracer collection, features a knurled edge for easy grip and a precise clicking action. The bezel's timing scale inlay is finished in a rose gold tone, echoing the watch's sunset-inspired theme.



The dial is undoubtedly the star of the show, a captivating canvas that showcases the Sundowner's unique personality. The anthracite base is accented by 18k 5N rose gold-plated hands and indices, creating a striking contrast that adds depth and dimension. The hands and indices are generously coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The date window, positioned at 3 o'clock, features a discreet white-on-black disc that blends seamlessly with the dial.



The Sundowner is fitted with a khaki green NATO strap, a nod to the watch's adventurous spirit. The strap's hardware is finished in a brushed rose gold tone, adding a touch of refinement to the watch's overall aesthetic. The fabric strap is both comfortable and durable, making it an ideal choice for an active lifestyle.



The heart of the Sundowner is the TH50-00 movement, a solar-powered quartz caliber developed in collaboration with La Joux-Perret. This innovative movement offers exceptional accuracy and a remarkable power reserve of up to 10 months on a full charge. The watch requires just one minute of light exposure to power it for a full day, making it an ideal companion for those who are always on the go.



The Sundowner's caseback features a unique engraving that sets it apart from other Aquaracer models. The Time+Tide logo is prominently displayed, surrounded by a honeycomb pattern that adds a touch of visual interest. The caseback also bears the inscription "Time+Tide Watches Limited Edition," along with the individual edition number out of 250 pieces.



The Sundowner's case, measuring a versatile 40mm in diameter, is a study in contrasts, seamlessly blending ruggedness and refinement. Crafted from grade 2 titanium, it boasts a featherlight feel on the wrist, a welcome characteristic for a watch designed for adventure. The sandblasted finish adds a tactical dimension, muting the reflections and giving the watch an understated, almost stealthy presence.



Don't let the lightweight nature fool you; this is a robust timepiece built to withstand the elements. The 200 meters of water resistance, ensured by a screw-down crown, makes it suitable for swimming and other aquatic activities. The unidirectional bezel, a signature element of the Aquaracer collection, operates with a satisfyingly firm click, its knurled edge providing ample grip for easy manipulation.



The dial is the undisputed centerpiece of the Sundowner, a captivating canvas that shifts and shimmers with the changing light. The anthracite base, a deep, almost charcoal-like hue, provides the perfect backdrop for the rose gold accents to shine. The hands and indices, meticulously plated in 18k 5N rose gold, catch the light with every subtle movement of the wrist, adding a touch of luxury to the watch's rugged persona.



The horizontal striations that traverse the dial are more than just a design element; they are the key to the watch's solar-powered heart. These channels allow light to penetrate the dial, reaching the solar cells that lie beneath and ensuring the watch remains energized. The interplay of light and shadow across these striations creates a dynamic, ever-changing landscape on the wrist.



The TH50-00 movement, a collaborative effort between TAG Heuer and La Joux-Perret, is a testament to the power of solar technology. This innovative caliber offers exceptional accuracy and a remarkable power reserve of up to 10 months on a full charge. Imagine a watch that can sit dormant for months, only to spring to life with a few moments of exposure to sunlight. That's the magic of the Solargraph.



The movement's efficiency is truly impressive. Just one minute of light exposure is enough to power the watch for an entire day. And if you find yourself in a prolonged period of darkness, the power-saving mode ensures the watch can last up to four years before needing a recharge. This is a watch that can keep pace with the most demanding lifestyles, always ready for action.



The Sundowner's khaki green NATO strap is the perfect complement to the watch's adventurous spirit. The fabric is both comfortable and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor activities. The brushed rose gold-toned hardware adds a touch of sophistication, while the sandblasted pin buckle closure ensures a secure fit.



The strap's 21mm lug width opens up a world of possibilities for customization. While the khaki NATO perfectly captures the watch's intended aesthetic, the option to swap it out for a different strap, perhaps a leather band for a more formal occasion or a rubber strap for enhanced water resistance, adds another layer of versatility.



The TAG Heuer x Time+Tide Aquaracer Solargraph Sundowner is not just a watch; it's a statement. A limited edition of 250 pieces, it represents the culmination of a shared vision between two horological powerhouses. The watch's unique design, inspired by the Australian outback, sets it apart from the crowd, while its technical prowess ensures it will remain a reliable companion for years to come.



The Sundowner's appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly transition from the rugged outdoors to more refined settings. Whether you're exploring the wilderness or attending a social gathering, this watch is equally at home. It's a timepiece that embodies the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of excellence, and the enduring allure of a well-crafted watch.



The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Solargraph x Time+Tide 'Sundowner' will be available for purchase on November 18th at 9 PM CET (Central European Time) through TAG Heuer boutiques in Australia and New Zealand, as well as on both TAG Heuer's and Time+Tide's official websites. This exclusive timepiece is priced at A$4,450 or £2,750, a fair price for a limited-edition watch that offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and horological significance.