TAG Heuer’s New Deep Red Carrera is a Collector’s Dream
TAG Heuer’s latest release is an unexpected addition to its Carrera line and features a rich red dial and an in-house automatic movement. With only 600 units available globally, the latest unveiling is a true collector’s piece and looks to be an instant hit with fans of the brand’s original ’60s chronographs. Marketed as a bold update to TAG Heuer‘s heritage range, it utilises the well-established style of the Carrera, but with an exciting new fiery red look. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a colourful release from TAG Heuer but it has to be one of the most memorable.
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TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
Existing fans of the elegant Carrera family won’t be disappointed with this new sibling. The brand is keen to point out that it “draws from the same pure, understated, and legible aesthetic that first made the Heuer Carrera a favourite”. This piece retains the shape and style of the 1963 original and has the recognisable sports chronograph case that proved popular with the motor racing crowd. Known as a ‘glassbox’ due to the prominent domed sapphire crystal, it oozes vintage charm. We also love the utilitarian chronograph pushers of the vintage models, and that look is recreated here with the design again favouring function over decoration.
But it’s not all about recreating the past. This limited edition release makes a statement. It brings new energy and new colouring to the tried and tested design. And it does a great job of updating this for a modern audience – a testament to the enduring appeal of the ’60s original, but an acknowledgement that time moves on.
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
At 39mm wide, the updated case hits a sweet spot. It’s not too large, and with a height of 14.7mm, it still has some heft. But let’s be honest, you’re here for that exceptional dial because red isn’t an easy colour to incorporate into a watch design. For the most part, this Swiss luxury watchmaker has confined red to subtle accents and tachymeter scales. But this new variant goes all out with the colour.
The sunray dial features a warm red with textured sub-dials laid out in the unmistakable tri-compax pattern. In keeping with the vintage styling, the dial is spartan. There’s no date window and the text is kept to a minimum. The lume, with a faux patina, is used sparingly and doesn’t overwhelm the dial. In a nice touch, the logo matches the Carrera 2447 of the ’60s, with the TAG lettering dropped in favour of authenticity to the period.
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
As expected the Carrera Limited Edition is powered by the brand’s own in-house Calibre Heuer 02 movement. Visible through the sapphire crystal exhibition back, it adds a modern element. There’s an industrial feel to the movement, and in keeping with the new colour palette, touches of red. It gives high-end chronograph performance and an exceptional 80 hours power reserve.
Make no mistake, the TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Chronograph is going to cause a stir among watch aficionados. It ticks the boxes they want – classic Carrera styling with an unorthodox touch of flair. And of course, there are only 600 watches to go around.
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition
Diameter: 39mm
Height: 14.7mm
Strap: Black Alligator Leather
Case: Polished Stainless Steel
Movement: Calibre Heuer 02
Glass: Sapphire Crystal
Price: AUD$9,800
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer
TAG Heuer Carrera Red Dial Limited Edition | Image: TAG Heuer