The latest TAG Heuer Carrera is a golden tribute to its racing legacy

Earlier this year, TAG Heuer released a new take on the Carrera design that served as a new chapter in the 60-year saga of the iconic chronograph. With a boldly domed sapphire crystal allowing for an expansive, uninterrupted view of the dial and the design’s trademark clean profile, this new take on the classic is full of potential, and sets both the tone and the pace for the future of Carrera.

Judging by this latest addition, the future looks bright indeed. This 39mm yellow gold TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph demonstrates the versatility of this new design, while paying tribute to one of the most coveted Heuer Carreras of all time. A watch known simply as ‘the Drivers’ watch.

The reference 1158 CHN, to give the model its proper name, is emblematic of the close ties between TAG Heuer and the world of Formula 1. In 1971, Jack Heuer was the first non-automotive sponsor of Ferrari, and alongside timing equipment, he made a deal with the team’s drivers. He offered them a solid gold Carrera, with a champaign dial and black subdials (the CHN in the reference refers to this specific dial layout), on the proviso that they had to visit the Heuer factory in Switzerland to pick them up. Soon, these distinctive watches were found on the wrists of the fasted racers in the world, men like Niki Laude and Mario Andretti.

As for the watch itself, it certainly delivers on its golden promise. The yellow gold case and dial make quite an impression, especially when you factor in the fine vertical brush on the dial and the spectacular view under that high sapphire crystal. The black elements add contrast that only amplifies the precious hue even more. When it comes to the question of historical accuracy, it walks a fine line. The watch is undeniably a tribute to the original 1158 CHN models, but still very much to be its own thing. The overall look and feel of the case, while sensitive to vintage aesthetics, is clearly modern. One of the most notable changes from the iconic historic references is the plain black calf band in lieu of the over-top solid gold mesh bracelet, but given how that much extra gold would impact the sticker price, not too many people are likely to complain.

TAG Heuer hasn’t been shy about celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Carrera in style, and it’s only fitting and appropriate that they’ve chosen to honour one of the most legendary references in style.

Reference: CBS2240.FC8319
Movement: Calibre TH20-00 Automatic
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph
Case: Yellow gold, 39 x 13.9mm, water resistant to 100M
Dial: Yellow gold-plated vertical brushed dial
Strap: Perforated black calfskin leather strap with yellow gold pin buckle
Price: CHF 21,00 approx