Front view
Back view
HEUER 01
The first new timepiece to emerge from the rejuvenated TAG Heuer
is the Carrera Calibre Heuer 01, a sporty mechanical chronograph
developed on the base of the TAG Heuer Caliber 1887. Caliber
1887 is a tried-and-true column-wheel chronograph that has been in
production in-house at TAG Heuer since 2009. As the first timepiece to emerge from La Chaux-de-Fonds with the visible fingerprints of Biver, the new Carrera Heuer 01 appears a likely indicator
of the direction that TAG Heuer will follow in the years ahead. That
direction, it seems, will be one of high value proposition and engagement with younger audiences, traditional TAG Heuer strengths.
The timepiece sports a bold new design that maintains the core
features of the Carrera—a round shape, minutes and seconds chapter printed along the flange, and an appealingly modern design—
while modernizing the case in important ways. The company has
used the term “modular” when referring the new Carrera because
individual case components are crafted with contrasting finishes.
It’s a very contemporary look that effectively communicates high
design and sophistication, with more than a glancing nod to the
brand’s affinity with motorsport. And just as critical as the looks is
the provenance: the new 12-part cases are manufactured in-house
at TAG Heuer, whereas the erstwhile production of monobloc cases
was outsourced elsewhere.
Furthering the technical look of the timepiece, an open-face
dial allows a view onto the Calibre Heuer 01 chronograph movement. It’s been skeletonized and enhanced with new colored parts as
well as a much bolder, mechanical appearance. Note, for example,
how much the bright red column wheel—which ensures the smooth
engagement of the chronograph mechanism—stands out within the
movement. It’s a substantial watch with a sophisticated design that
speaks to a refreshing value proposition that has become so rare in
today’s watch marketplace.
Think about it: TAG Heuer is delivering an in-house column
wheel chronograph movement and a complex 12-part case—also
2016 | WRISTWATCH
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