As the 60th anniversary of the TAG Heuer Carrera timepiece approaches, TAG Heuer presents, at Watches and Wonders 2023 in Geneva, two exceptional new models, inspired by the popular “glassbox” design. These innovative watches pay homage to the timeless racing spirit, performance watch design, and iconic status of the TAG Heuer Carrera, which has been an enduring symbol of success and style since its inception in 1963.
The Birth of a Legend: TAG Heuer Carrera
The legendary story of the TAG Heuer Carrera began in the early 1960s when a young Jack Heuer, the company’s CEO, attended the 12 Hours of Sebring race in Florida. There, he learned about the Carrera Panamericana, a thrilling and perilous road race in Mexico. Jack, an expert in storytelling, recognized the potential of this race’s excitement and romance and chose the name “Carrera” for one of his new wristwatch chronographs. The name, which can be translated as “race,” “career,” or simply “path,” embodied the perfect spirit for a watch designed for a young, stylish, and ambitious generation.
Drawing inspiration from the works of renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer and furniture designer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Jack Heuer incorporated elements of modernism, functionality, beauty, and signature style into the design of the Heuer Carrera. The 1963 debut of the watch showcased a design that was not only modern and inventive but also clean, legible, and practical, making it an instant favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors.
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Introducing the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph and Chronograph Tourbillon
For the 60th anniversary of the TAG Heuer Carrera, the company is excited to unveil two new models: the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph and TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon. These timepieces promise to become integral designs in the brand’s collection of contemporary watches.
The New TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph: A Timeless Classic
To mark the 60th anniversary of the TAG Heuer Carrera, the company’s designers and watchmakers have carefully refined the watch’s form, making it ready for its seventh decade. The stainless-steel case, measuring 39 mm in diameter, offers a universal appeal, while the overall ergonomics have been enhanced for maximum comfort across various wrist sizes.
The case features a domed sapphire crystal, reminiscent of the hesalite crystals found on 1970s Heuer Carrera models, but redeveloped for a seamless flow over the tachymeter scale and into the case. Additionally, the flange and indexes have been curved, contributing to the watch’s aesthetic coherence and legibility.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph is available in two models: one with a signature blue dial on a blue calfskin leather strap, and another with a sportier, black-and-silver “reverse panda” dial on a black perforated calfskin leather strap.
The Calibre Heuer 02: Evolving with the Times
Both versions of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph are powered by an evolved version of TAG Heuer’s in-house automatic chronograph caliber, the Heuer 02. Now named TH20-00, the next-generation movement features an oscillating weight that offers bidirectional winding, providing faster and more reliable winding and ensuring optimal performance and precision.
TAG Heuer is so confident in the advanced mechanics of these watches that both new models come with a five-year warranty.
A Harmony of Opposites: The New TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph
The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph continues the spirit of the original 1963 model by seamlessly merging seemingly contradictory elements. For instance, the fluid silhouette of the watch, due to the curved edges of the domed sapphire crystal, is also angular because of the case’s taut flanks and avant-garde lugs.
TAG Heuer’s designers achieved this balance by juxtaposing brushed and polished surfaces, creating a visual impact that is both velvety and assertive. Additionally, careful finishing applied to the angled edges results in a smooth touch. The outcome is a striking design that is ergonomic yet bold, precise yet refined, and technical yet elegant—truly embodying Jack Heuer’s vision.
As the TAG Heuer Carrera celebrates its 60th anniversary, the introduction of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph and TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon models not only pays tribute to the timepiece’s rich history but also ushers in a new era of innovation and style. These exceptional watches, with their unique blend of performance, design, and racing spirit, are destined to become cherished additions to the TAG Heuer Carrera legacy.
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