There are watches that create trends and then there are watches that hold timeless stories of creating history within. The Carrera is one such legend. Having celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, the Carrera is a timepiece synonymous with luxury, classic style, and a wide array of models from which to choose.
The movement of TAG Heuer timepieces all began in 1887 when the eponymous company founder invented a new type of movement. The Carrera watch itself comes in an unmistakable steel case. Wearing this watch means wearing the brand and everything it stands for. It’s a classic for a number of reasons and continues to be one of the most popular styles of TAG Heuer watch in the market. Whether you’re a new collector interested in fine timepieces, or if you’re simply looking for a luxe wristwatch, there’s a long history to this renowned style.
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History of the TAG Heuer Carrera
TAG Heuer’s original claim to fame in the 19th century during the genesis of the brand was when Edouard Heuer invented the oscillating pinion. Watch Time describes this as a movement that couples and decouples the chronograph, which simplified manufacturing at the time of its creation and improved the rate at which watches could be produced.
Some years later, the Carrera model was formulated in 1964 when Jack Heuer was inspired by the Carrera Panamericana Mexico Road Race to create a timepiece suitable for race car drivers, according to TAG Heuer’s website. The core properties of the original Carrera wristwatch was the waterproof and scratch-resistant case, outfitted with an easy to read face. What started as a design for race car drivers, however, quickly evolved into a style that’s still popular to this day amongst wristwatch fans who desire a classic, elegant timepiece.
Basic Features of the Carrera
Stripped down to its most basic design, the TAG Heuer Carrera still remains true to its original readability and durable, waterproof casing. Since its original inception, though, the model has been refined and reinvented many times over. One of the most important milestones of the Carrera, according to Watch Time, was when the chronograph movement comprised of a ceramic bezel and tachymeter scale with sapphire was taken from the longstanding Calibre 1887 model and inserted it into the Carrera. This resulted in the Carrera Calibre 1887.
Another aspect of the Carrera to consider outside of its technical capability is the design. With its classic durable case and the round, legible face with multiple dials and date, the silhouette of the Carrera is unmistakably masculine. It exudes an air of sophistication due to its recognizable refined yet rugged look. If you’re interested in a watch that announces itself yet remains practical, a Carrera is a brilliant choice. Although the technical features of a timepiece should be taken into careful consideration when you’re planning to invest in a luxury watch, also think about what kind of image you want to project while wearing it. Look for a watch that suits your character from an assortment of TAG Heuer Carrera models on Ethos Watches and you will definitely fall in love with the series.
Refinements in Recent Years
This year, the latest update in the Carrera series is the Calibre Heuer 01, an improvement over the last model which didn’t fare particularly well. According to The New York Times, this latest model has seen an improved chronograph movement that’s been taken from the Calibre 1887, but with a slick modern twist on the boxy trademark Carrera case. One thing to remember about the Carrera line is that you have a wide array of timepieces to choose from, as well as prices. A newer watch such as the Calibre Heuer 01 usually retails for a mid-range price in the grand scheme of men’s TAG Heuer watches.
Good for Collectors, Athletes, and Techies
After the 1964 launch of the Carrera which featured the simple dial design with a wide opening, according to Watchpedia, the model was improved the next year with a wrist chronograph and digital date display. By the early 1970s, the Carrera included an automatic self-winding movement as well as a date display. The Carrera celebrated its 40 year anniversary in 2004 with the Carrera 2004 model. Most recently, TAG Heuer also jumped on the smartwatch bandwagon, offering a new model this year. According to Forbes, the name was revealed this past May as the Carrera Wearable 01, and blends with the brand’s traditional luxe image with cutting edge technology, entering the world of mobile devices. Wearable technology is the next big thing when it comes to timepieces, and TAG Heuer intends to keep up with the trends.
If you’re a new timepiece connoisseur looking to start building a legitimate collection of luxury watches, the TAG Heuer Carrera is what you should never miss. Given its longstanding reputation, reliability, quality, and iconic style status, this is a piece that anyone of any age can wear and don it in style.
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