Following the recent addition of two new models to their iconic Carrera Collection, TAG Heuer has created a rather poetic limited-edition timepiece to bring things full circle for Jack Heuer, the company’s current honorary chairman and former CEO.
The ‘TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Jack Heuer 88th Birthday Gold Limited Edition’ has been crafted in the image of the classic 18k gold 1158CHN model, which Jack would gift Ferrari Formula One drivers throughout the 1970s as a symbol of good luck, always with the driver’s name engraved on the case back; sometimes even their blood type.
Leaning into tradition, 188 of these watches have been made to celebrate the Carrera pioneer’s 88th birthday. Crafted around the original’s distinctive motorsport-inspired features, this iteration is a modern 42mm, 18k rose-gold chronograph with a silver opaline dial featuring further gold-toned details along with elegant black azurage subdials at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock with a sunray-brushed finish.
To further distinguish this iteration from historical models, an applied, gold-coloured TAG Heuer shield logo appears at 12 o’clock, balanced by a small-seconds indication at 6 o’clock.
Notably, two horizontal ‘8’ symbols appear in the centre of the dial, styled to not only represent Jack’s 88th birthday, but also form a double infinity loop to seamlessly work in a reference to Jack’s timeless motto: “time never stops, why should we”. The profound phrase is also engraved on the rotor of the movement – an acknowledgement of the man’s infinite connection to the carrera.
Powering the watch is the brand’s Calibre Heuer 02 manufacture movement with lengthy 80-hour power reserve. Heuer’s signature black alligator strap with an 18k rose gold pin buckle complements the model’s homage to the man.
All 188 models are now available for pre-order at a retail price of CHF$18,000 (approx. AU$27,144), although they won’t be available in TAG Heuer boutiques or online until March 2021.
