When TAG Heuer released its Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon in 2016, it created a sensation in the watch market. This was not just because of its double complications or its imposing 45mm case and skeletonized dial but because it featured an in-house integrated chronograph movement with a tourbillon regulator (Heuer 02T). Returning to celebrate the 60th birthday of the Carrera chronograph in 2023, a new Chronograph Tourbillon model was issued in a more compact and refined 42mm case with a glassbox crystal and a more classical closed dial, barring the tourbillon aperture at 6 o’clock. The latest edition of the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon is an attractive Blue-Panda model that TAG Heuer has surreptitiously dropped on its website.
The 42mm case with a thickness of 14.3mm is made of stainless steel with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces. This size marks a more refined and compact version compared to the original 45mm model. This large and commanding presence on the wrist is complemented by the signature piston-style chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock and angular lugs.
On the flipside is a sapphire crystal caseback that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. The glassbox crystal, engulfing the bezel, is a nod to the domed hesalite crystals of Carrera watches from the 1970s.
It comes equipped with a knurled screw-down crown emblazoned by TAG Heuer’s iconic logo. All topped by a domed sapphire crystal with double AR treatment ensures clear visibility of the dial under various lighting conditions. Water-resistance can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet).
Time is exhibited on a two-tone blue and white dial with a circular-brushed finish on the white background. The blue 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock and the 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock feature blue snailed interiors and crisp white markings.
The central hour and minute hands are rhodium-plated and fitted with a thin strip of Super-LumiNova for enhanced legibility in low-light conditions. The applied and faceted rhodium-plated indices add a touch of elegance to the dial, contrasting beautifully against the blue and white background.
The red lacquered central chronograph seconds hand adds a pop of color, matching the blue flange with the 60-seconds/minutes scale and white markings. There is also a date window at 4:30, maintaining the watch’s functional appeal.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon
The “TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon” (Ref#: CBS5013.EB0375) is powered by the in-house automatic calibre TH20-09, with 33 jewels, and 28,800 vph. This movement is an evolution of the Heuer 02T, redesigned by Carole Forestier-Kasapi. It combines a column-wheel chronograph with a one-minute tourbillon. It comes equipped with bi-directional winding, a redesigned gear train to reduce the rotor’s noise, and is COSC chronometer certified. Power reserve can last up to 65 hours when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is a blue perforated rally-style leather strap, secured to the wrist by a steel folding clasp with push-buttons. This is a limited edition of only 50 pieces.
For more up-to-date information, visit the official TAG Heuer website here.
