TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph

Unveiled at LVMH Watch Week 2026, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph marks a decisive leap forward for the brand’s high-end watchmaking ambitions. Reviving the historic rattrapante complication within the Carrera line for the first time, this bold reference showcases advanced mechanics and contemporary aesthetics in equal measure. Encased in Grade 5 titanium and powered by the ultra-light, high-frequency TH81-01 calibre, the watch bridges heritage chronograph design with cutting-edge engineering. With its translucent dial, sculpted case, and six-figure price tag, this model stands as one of the most technically sophisticated and visually daring Carrera releases to date.

The TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph features a 42mm case crafted entirely from Grade 5 titanium, chosen for its strength, lightness, and sporty appeal. The silhouette stays true to the Carrera’s signature form, with angular lugs and fluid lines that enhance its aggressive stance. Satin-brushed and polished surfaces alternate across the faceted case architecture, reinforcing a sense of precision and muscularity. At 15.17mm thick, it wears with presence but maintains ergonomic balance, aided by the seamless integration of the domed sapphire “Glassbox” crystal into the mid-case.The caseback is fitted with a wide sapphire crystal, framed by a circular titanium ring with a brushed finish. This window reveals the extensively decorated TH81-01 calibre, including its gradient-red shield-shaped rotor, hand-polished screws, and blackened titanium bridges. A subtle engraving around the perimeter completes the display without overwhelming the mechanical view.The fluted titanium crown sits at 3 o’clock, flanked by rectangular pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock for the chronograph function. A smaller, recessed pusher at 9 o’clock operates the split-seconds hand, integrated discreetly to preserve the case’s symmetry. Water‑resistance can reach up to 30 meters (100 feet).
The dial of the Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph distinguishes itself through its translucent sapphire construction, offering a glimpse into the mechanics below while preserving the Carrera’s recognizable layout. The chronograph minutes (3 o’clock), hours (9 o’clock), and running seconds (6 o’clock) are each displayed on clear sapphire subdials, mounted flush for a sleek, three-dimensional effect. The anthracite flange, curved to follow the Glassbox crystal, bears a bold tachymeter scale and anchors the composition with technical clarity. Applied rhodium-plated indices mark the hours, their polished surfaces catching light against the translucent backdrop. The openworked hour and minute hands are also rhodium-plated and filled with white Super-LumiNova for high legibility. Central to the chronograph display is a white lacquered seconds hand, joined by a red split-seconds hand for the rattrapante function. Together, these contrasting elements reinforce the watch’s dynamic visual identity while maintaining balance and symmetry.Finishing details amplify the sense of depth and motion across the dial. The polished bevels on each subdial edge shimmer subtly as the watch shifts angles, while the multi-level construction and partially exposed mechanics convey a modern, high-performance aesthetic. Lume is applied to the hour and minute hands, as well as to the tips of the applied indices, ensuring nighttime readability without disrupting the dial’s transparency.

The ‘TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph’ (Ref#: CDD2180.FT8120) is powered by the in‑house self‑winding mechanical movement, caliber TH81‑01 with over 350 components, and 36,000 vph. It comes equipped with a column wheel, vertical clutch, and split-seconds (rattrapante) mechanism developed in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier. Power reserve can last up to 65 hours, or 55 hours with the chronograph engaged, when fully wound.
Mounted on this watch is a black rubber strap embossed with a textile-like pattern and accented by bold red stitching, secured by a titanium folding clasp with double safety push-buttons. The dark tone and sporty detailing mirror the technical aesthetic of the translucent dial and titanium case. On the wrist, the Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph wears surprisingly light and ergonomic for its size, offering a high-performance presence with refined comfort.This model is part of the brand’s permanent collection and will become available worldwide starting June 2026