Tag Heuer is launching two new Carrera timepieces at Switzerland’s annual Baselworld international watch fair in March that sport a terrific vintage look down to the iconic Heuer logo from pre-TAG days.
The new pieces, a three-hand time teller and a chronograph, are described by the brand as “capturing the heritage of Heuer, and giving it a unique and very modern twist”.
The modern is obviously in the movements and the finishing, as these watches feature 39 mm cases that look perfect, if from a different era.
The early versions appeared back when Jack Heuer started to work on a new chronograph specifically designed for drivers and motor-racing enthusiasts in 1963. He wanted a wide-open, easy-to-read dial with a shock-resistant and waterproof case tough enough for road wear. For the name, he reached back to a racing legend from the 1950s, the Carrera Pan Americana, a five-day, 3300 kilometers (2100 mile) race across Mexico.
The new versions not only re-capture the old spirit, but will please fans disappointed by the cancellation of the brand’s hero watch at last year’s Baselworld, a watch with similar visual codes.
THE DETAILS:
The Carrera Calibre 6 Chronometer
This new silver and blue three-hand timepiece has a touch of red on the flange’s “60”, the Heuer logo and the second hand, and reflects the original 1963-Carrera design.
The blue small second counter matches a blue vintage perforated leather strap. The Heuer logo on the clasp of the strap personifies the style down to the tiniest details. It’s powered by COSC-certified movement with a power reserve of 44 hours. Price around $3750.
The Carrera Calibre 18 – Automatic Chronograph
The vintage look and shape of this black and silver chronograph is based on Jack Heuer’s Carrera design and is reminiscent of a model known to collectors as the Panda thanks to its black and white visage. The watch has a telemeter scale on the flange, a tool designed originally for the military, to measure distance of artillery fire, based on the speed of sound. Tag says it can now be used during a thunderstorm to know how far from you it is!
The dial is branded Heuer with the vintage logo and a black perforated leather strap – along with the shape of the push-buttons – enhances the retro feel.
The movement, with “Côtes de Genève” decoration, is visible through a sapphire case-back. Price around $6795.
