TAG Heuer Aquaracer Tortoiseshell Effect
The season for getting wet is upon us and many brands are ushering out watches with aquatics in mind. TAG Heuer has released two new “Aquaracer” models to assist with these possible escapades. In essence these additions have preserved the essential qualities of this collection, while adding a unique “Tortoiseshell Effect” bezel.
The 43mm case is made of stainless-steel with a mixture of fine-brushed and polished finishes; while on the flip-side we encounter a solid fine-brushed steel case back, which has been engraved with a vintage diver’s helmet.
Mounted to the case is a steel unidirectional rotating bezel that features a tortoise shell style bezel insert. Each version manages to create its on style: the blue bezel option has an overall aquatic mood with its sea blue and black patten; while the brown, amber-red variant has a bigger resemblance to the tortoiseshell look.
Engraved to the bezel is also a 60-minute scale: counted out by 10’s, excluding the 60-minute marker for the iconic triangular index marker (doubling its function as part of a rotating scale) with a luminescent filling.
It comes equipped with a screw-in steel setting-crown, plus those also classic texturally angled lugs; very reminiscent of watches that carry a much heftier price tag comparatively. All topped by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, which also assists with water-resistance on this watch reaching up to 300 meters (984 feet).
Time is exhibited on a vibrant blue or black dial with steel-applied hour index markers, followed by a ring of white printed minute/seconds markers circling the periphery of the dial.
A stepped pattern can be seen underling and scaling this dial throughout its whole diameter. The TAG Heuer logo inscribed on the upper-half of the dial, while the lower-half highlights the caliber movement and water-resistance. 
The central stainless-steel hour/minute hands and hour index markers have all been fitted with a contrasting blue/green luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility. There is also a date aperture at the 3 o’clock position.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Tortoiseshell Effect
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Tortoiseshell EffectThe “TAG Heuer Aquaracer Tortoiseshell Effect” (Ref#: WAY201P.FT6177 iN Red & WAY201P.FT6178 iN Blue) is powered by the self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 5 with 25 jewels and 28,800 vph. This movement is based on the ETA 2824-2, but has been heavily modified for an enhanced functionality. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 42 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted to the watches is a matching rubber straps, textures with an alligator pattern, while secured by a steel push-button deployant buckle.
These watches will become available in August 2020. For more up to date information visit the official TAG Heuer website here.
