TAG Heuer Unveils Its Revamped Mechanical Formula 1 Chronograph
As Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary, TAG Heuer steps into the limelight as the official timekeeper of this iconic motorsport.
Recently, after much speculation surrounding Rolex’s departure from its long-standing partnership with LVMH, many anticipated that TAG Heuer would play a pivotal role in this new chapter.
Given TAG Heuer’s storied history with Formula 1, expectations ran high.
In this exciting moment, TAG Heuer has introduced a fresh series within its Formula 1 collection, embodying a significant shift in the brand’s identity.
Although fans might have hoped for a standard collection inspired by the successful TAG Heuer and Kith collaboration from last year, today’s launch reveals five new automatic chronographs that feature a bold new case design and lively color accents—one of which proudly honors a limited collaboration with Oracle Red Bull Racing.
Design and Features
The refreshed chronographs boast a solid 44mm case that stands 14.1mm thick.
The angular design reminiscent of a tonneau shape has garnered mixed reactions from enthusiasts, with some comparing it to creations from Porsche Design and Seiko’s “Samurai.” TAG Heuer asserts that the contours are inspired by the streamlined lines of Formula 1 cars, particularly their noses.
While the connection may not be immediately apparent to some, the overall design is undeniably striking.
Despite its size, the watch proves to be surprisingly comfortable, thanks in part to its generous 47.3mm lug-to-lug measurement.
These watches are constructed from grade-2 titanium, with three variants enhanced by a DLC coating for added contrast.
Each standard model features a sleek DLC-coated fixed aluminum tachymeter bezel encircling a flat sapphire crystal.
The standout model without the coating offers a captivating contrast in aesthetics.
Inside each case ticks TAG Heuer’s Caliber 16, which is based on the sought-after ETA 7750 movement.
True to the spirit of Formula 1, these watches shine with vibrant colors.
Two models flaunt bold red accents, while another showcases a refreshing light blue, and yet another brings a playful lime green.
The black dials artfully incorporate these lively touches around the indices and prominently feature the TAG shield’s colors on the bezel, chronograph hands, and five-minute markers.
For the non-DLC edition, a bright red rubber strap complements the overall design, while the black-coated models come equipped with matching straps that reveal the accent colors along their sides.
A tang buckle completes the ensemble; however, a deployant clasp might have elevated the overall sleekness.
Notably, the interaction between the bezel and case is accentuated by visible cutouts in the titanium, revealing the coordinating accent colors.
Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition
Taking a unique direction, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph x Oracle Red Bull Racing edition features a raw metal finish for the case, pushers, and crown, all beautifully sandblasted for a modern touch.
The bezel constructed from forged carbon stands out, while the blue dial sports a distinct checkered pattern, embodying the essence of the Oracle Red Bull Racing team’s colors.
Additionally, the case back highlights the branding of this exciting collaboration.
Regarding pricing, the non-coated Formula 1 Chronograph retails for $4,700, while the DLC-coated models are priced at $4,900.
The Oracle Red Bull Racing edition is available for $5,450 and is not limited in production.
The rollout of this collection will occur throughout the year, with the red models and Red Bull Racing edition launching in February.
Key Details
- Brand: TAG Heuer
- Model: Formula 1 Chronograph
- Reference Numbers:
- CBZ2082.FT8096 (Red)
- CBZ2085.FT8093 (Red DLC)
- CBZ2084.FT8097 (Blue)
- CBZ2086.FT8098 (Lime)
- CBZ2080.FT8091 (Oracle Red Bull Racing)
- Dimensions: 44mm diameter, 14.1mm thick
- Materials: Grade-2 titanium, with options for DLC coating; forged carbon and aluminum used for bezels.
- Dial Options: Black with colorful accents; Blue featuring a checkered pattern for the Oracle Red Bull Racing edition.
- Indexes: Applied
- Water Resistance: 200 meters
- Bracelet: Rubber strap with a pin buckle.
Movement Specifications
Caliber: TAG Heuer Caliber 16 (derived from the ETA 7750)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, and chronograph display
Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours
Winding Mechanism: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).
Pricing & Release Schedule
Cost:
- $4,700 for the Red model
- $4,900 for DLC-coated versions
- $5,450 for the Oracle Red Bull Racing edition
Availability: Red and Red Bull Racing models are now available; Blue and Lime models will be released later in the year.
Edition Status: Not limited.
Source: Hodinkee