TAG Heuer and Porsche unveil the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana. Limited to 255 pieces, this watch honours Porsche’s 1954 victories in the Carrera Panamericana. It also celebrates the enduring partnership between TAG Heuer and Porsche, inspired by the legendary race. The watch features a tourbillon movement and a design reminiscent of the Porsche 550 Spyder.
The case of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana measures 42 mm in diameter. Crafted from stainless steel, it features both fine-brushed and polished finishes. This duality enhances the watch’s sporty yet elegant character. An engraved ‘Spyder’ logo on the case side recalls the Porsche 550 Spyder from 1954. Meanwhile, the curved flange with the Porsche logo adds to the racing references. Domed ‘Glassbox’ sapphire crystal not only lends a retro aesthetic but also ensures optimal visibility of the dial’s indications. The pushers are round and plumed, emphasizing the chronograph function. Water resistance reaches 100 meters, ensuring durability against moisture and dust. Overall, the case combines robust construction with stylish details, reinforcing the watch’s connection to motorsport.”
The dial of the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana draws direct inspiration from the Porsche 550 Spyder. Its silver skeleton design resembles the car’s wheels, while the yellow, black, and silver colours echo the vehicle’s original livery. These vivid hues not only pay homage to the past but also provide excellent readability, especially the yellow lacquered hands that indicate seconds and chronograph minutes. The black subdials with a shimmering finish add depth and luxury, enhancing the overall aesthetic. At 6 o’clock, a rhodium-plated tourbillon cage reveals the intricate mechanics of the watch. Despite the complex design, the dial maintains a clear focus on functionality, emblematic of TAG Heuer’s racing heritage. Logos and inscriptions are minimal, allowing the eye to flow over the historic motifs and modern technical feats. In essence, the dial seamlessly merges nostalgia with contemporary watchmaking prowess.
Powering the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana is the Calibre TH20-09. This in-house movement features a tourbillon that replaces the seconds hand, providing a unique take on timekeeping. The chronograph mechanism operates via a column wheel and horizontal clutch, ensuring precise actuation and smooth chronograph hand movements. The movement runs at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and offers a power reserve of 65 hours. Notably, the rotor takes the shape of a Porsche steering wheel, adding an automotive flair visible through the caseback.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana comes equipped with a black perforated calfskin leather strap. The strap features a vibrant yellow lining and stitching, adding a pop of colour that reinforces the watch’s sporting personality. The visible lining on the side is a new design element that enhances the watch’s athletic aesthetic. Complementing the strap is a fine-brushed and polished steel folding clasp. This clasp includes double safety push-buttons and the TAG Heuer shield, ensuring secure wear. Together, the strap and clasp not only provide comfort and durability but also accentuate the watch’s connection to motorsport.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana will be available from October 2024. This limited edition is restricted to just 255 pieces, each individually numbered. The price for this timepiece is CHF 35,000. Each watch comes in luxurious packaging made of lacquered wood, personalized in the yellow Pantone of the piece, adding an extra layer of sophistication.
