Achieving 1/1000th Second Measurement with Mechanical Chronographs!

At an exhibition in Geneva in January, preceding the Basel Fair, TAG Heuer announced four new models, including the "Heuer Carrera Mikrograph 1/100th Chronograph," a mechanical model capable of measuring up to 1/100th of a second, marking their first such release in five years. While this collection alone is substantial, Basel held an even greater surprise. It was the "Microtimer Flying 1000 Concept Chronograph," a mechanical chronograph capable of measuring 1/1000th of a second—one-tenth of 1/100th of a second—further etching a new page in the history of mechanical chronographs. As its name suggests, it is a "concept," yet the prototype has already reached a level of completion where it operates smoothly on the wrist of CEO Jean-Christophe Babin. However, several challenges remain before commercialization. Nevertheless, this does not diminish the value of this historic innovation in any way. The issues will likely be resolved within a few years, leading to its product launch, much like previous concept models.

Heuer Carrera Microtimer Flying 1000 Concept Chronograph
The sight of the chronograph hand sweeping 10 times per second is breathtaking!

This groundbreaking chronograph achieves measurement in 1/1000th of a second for the first time in watch history, equipped with a separate regulating mechanism for the chronograph operating at an ultra-high speed of 3.6 million vibrations per hour (500Hz)—125 times faster than the 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) of the watch's regulating mechanism. Similar to the "Heuer Carrera Mikrograph 1/100th Chronograph" announced in January, the movement incorporates two independent systems: one for the watch and one for the chronograph. As they operate independently, activating the chronograph does not affect the timekeeping accuracy. Technologically, the most intriguing aspect is the chronograph's regulating mechanism, co-developed with hairspring manufacturer Atokalpa, which consists of an ultra-high-frequency vibrating hairspring without a balance wheel, a special pallet lever, and escape wheel. Currently, 11 patents related to this model are pending. Commercialization requires further improvements, such as the introduction of new materials and extending the chronograph's measurable duration.

Automatic winding; movement measures 35.8mm in diameter and 7.95mm in thickness, composed of 354 parts. Power reserve for the watch is 42 hours; the chronograph's measurable duration is 150 seconds. This is a prototype under development, with no release date planned.

Carrera Heritage Chronograph
A New Standard Model with the Charm of Old-World Watchmaking Taste

This new standard chronograph, born from the DNA of TAG Heuer's many masterpieces from the Heuer era, embodies a vintage aesthetic. It features a Flinqué dial with concentric engravings. The polished applied indices are inspired by the Arabic numerals of the 1945 two-counter chronograph. The classic-style chronograph pushers and the applied TAG Heuer logo further enhance its vintage appeal. The silver dial shown here uses polished blue hands, reminiscent of old blued steel hands, creating a beautiful harmony of meticulously crafted classic details. Other dial colors include black. In addition to a stainless steel bracelet, an alligator strap is available at the same price. We highly recommend this watch to those who wear suits daily and are looking for an "adult chronograph."

The appeal of the three-hand model is identical. For those who do not require chronograph functions for daily use, the three-hand model is recommended. This model is also available with rose gold accents on the bezel and indices.

Automatic winding, 41mm stainless steel case and bracelet, see-through case back, 100m water resistance, ¥409,500 (estimated price). Scheduled for release in September.