For around 70 years now, TAG Heuer and Porsche’s paths have been intertwined both on and off the racetrack. The long-standing bond between the two comes mainly from their joint roots in motorsports, and most obviously being that they both carry the name ‘Carrera’. Named after the Carrera Panamericana, a race so legendary and down-right dangerous, winning here was bigger than winning a dozen World Cups with you’re legs tied together. It inspired both Porsche, who won its first-class victory at the Carrera Panamericana race in 1954 and later named the production car in its honour, and Jack Heuer, who decided to name his new 1963 chronograph accordingly after hearing about the race’s highly evocative name from the Rodriguez brothers in Sebring in 1962.
TAG Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault says: “With such a strong heritage shared with Porsche in the racing field, we are excited to present a new watch that embodies every aspect of this incredible sport. It is also a nod to the history shared by TAG Heuer and Porsche – a history on which we continue to build. Together, with their expertise and creativity, our teams have created a bold and powerful timepiece encased in a sporty yet elegant design.”
So, let’s take a closer look at the watch itself, and boy is it a looker. Known officially as the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Porsche Orange Racing, this watch continues the quality and performance offered by the Calibre Heuer 02, a movement manufactured entirely at TAG Heuer’s Chevenez facility and consisting of 168 parts, including a column wheel and a vertical clutch. These features allow for exceptional chronometric performance and offer an impressive power reserve of 80 hours.
The vibrant orange can be found in many elements of the watch, and the shade is claimed to be inspired by the heat sparks made by a race car on the circuit. Small touches on the dial, with “azuré” counters and an orange seconds hand add to the impressive design of the watch and are certain to make it stand out while on your wrist in a crowded room. The timepiece’s carbon-like calfskin strap finished in black is also a highlight, presenting the vivid orange and is the perfect finishing touch to the racing inspiration and a subtle nod to the seat upholstery of Porsche models.
To discover more about this fantastic collaboration between two industry leaders, head to the CD Shop, where you’ll also be able to purchase one for yourself!
