Watch & Jewelry
April 1, 2015
TAG Heuer | Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph
TAG Heuer
Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph
Text by OPENERS
While TAG Heuer is strongly associated with racing watches, the brand has also made significant contributions to the world of marine timekeeping. In 1895, they patented a waterproof case for pocket watches, and in 1950, they introduced the iconic "Mareograph," a regatta chronograph for yacht racing. The "1000 Series" quartz chronograph, boasting 200m water resistance, debuted in 1979.
The "Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph" is a popular model, widely favored as a diver's watch that symbolizes TAG Heuer's deep connection with the sea.
Despite incorporating a chronograph function, which typically compromises water resistance due to its external push-buttons, this watch achieves an impressive 300m water resistance, on par with professional diver's watches. The three vertically arranged subdials on the dial lend a sporty and stylish aesthetic.
The indices are faceted and three-dimensional applied markers. The TAG Heuer logo at 2 o'clock is also crafted from metal appliqué, and delicate guilloché patterns are engraved on the outer perimeter of the dial and around the subdials, creating a face that is both sporty and exuding a sense of luxury.
Furthermore, the bezel design is particularly noteworthy. The outer edge features minute markers for air supply calculation, while the inner edge displays elapsed time counters for the chronograph. This "double bezel," with its two distinct counters, imbues the model with a unique and original identity.
Naturally, as a requisite feature for a diver's watch, the portion with the outer minute markers is unidirectional and rotatable only in one direction. With a day-date display at 3 o'clock, it is also practical for business wear. The dial is available in black, blue, or silver.
Additionally, a COSC-certified chronometer version of this model is available (the "Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph Chronometer"). This version features a tachymeter scale on the outermost edge of the dial, offering an even more mechanical aesthetic.
Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph Chronometer ¥399,000
Aquaracer Automatic Chronograph Chronometer
TAG Heuer Aquaracer CHRONOGRAPH
Automatic
42-hour power reserve
Case diameter × thickness | 43 × 14.9mm
Case | Stainless steel case
Water resistance | 300m
Price | ¥333,600
BRAND HISTORY
TAG Heuer is a brand that has been actively involved in sports since its inception, particularly supporting the evolution of motorization, earning respect from many athletes, including racers.
Its predecessor, Heuer, was founded in 1860 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, by Edouard Heuer, who was then only 20 years old. The company quickly distinguished itself, obtaining a patent for a stem-winding pocket watch in 1868 and exhibiting a split-seconds chronograph at the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1889, where it received a silver medal.
In 1916, they unveiled the "Micrograph," a stopwatch masterpiece that is still celebrated today. This groundbreaking measuring instrument, capable of measuring to 1/100th of a second, propelled Heuer to global recognition as an indispensable brand in the world of sports.
Indeed, in recognition of this achievement, the company was appointed as the official timekeeper for three Olympic Games, starting with the 1920 Antwerp Games.
Although the company had already introduced the "Time of Trip," a dashboard clock for automobiles, in 1911, its deep involvement with motorsports continued unabated.
In 1964, they launched a chronograph named after the legendary road race "Carrera," which was favored by many racers at the time.
Then, in 1969, they introduced the "Monaco," equipped with the world's first automatic chronograph movement. It became widely known for being personally and professionally favored by Hollywood star Steve McQueen, and its image was seared into the minds of racing fans worldwide through the acclaimed film "Le Mans."
Like many other brands, Heuer faced a period of financial crisis in the 1970s due to the quartz shock. However, in 1985, the company made a remarkable comeback with investment from TAG Group, the owner of the F1 McLaren team, and was renamed the current TAG Heuer.
In addition to deepening its ties with motorsports, the brand actively promoted its image by enlisting ambassadors such as Tiger Woods, Maria Sharapova, Brad Pitt, and Uma Thurman. TAG Heuer has also garnered significant attention for its mechanical innovations, including the "V4" prototype in 2004, which featured a timing belt and ingot, and the "Calibre 360" in 2005, an automatic chronograph capable of measuring to 1/1000th of a second – a first for a wristwatch.
Year Founded: 1860
Place of Founding: Saint-Imier, Switzerland
Main Series Names: Grand Carrera, Carrera, Link, Monaco, New Aquaracer, Formula 1
Inquiries: LVMH Watch & Jewelry Japan TAG Heuer Division 03-3613-3951
Official Website: http://www.tagheuer.com/