History and tradition meet with the TAG Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary
Ricardo SimeHow would you celebrate your 60th birthday? Go skinny dipping? Maybe skydiving? Break 100mph on the speedometer? Though all those things sound intriguing, they are not really celebratory options for a watch. Well, one of them could be if we’re talking about the latest release from TAG Heuer. And that would be the new Carrera Chronograph 60th Anniversary.
Let’s take a closer look at what TAG Heuer has on offer to celebrate 60 years of Carrera.
The case
If you’re a fan of TAG Heuer, this case should be quite recognisable. Last time we saw it was in 2022, as it caressed the red dialled CBK221G.FC6479. At 39mm and with a 47.7mm lug to lug, it’s reminiscent of the reasonably sized chronograph watches of yore. Even the thickness, which would raise eyebrows at 14.7mm is deceiving as the watch comes with a classic boxed sapphire crystal.
Beyond the dimensions, we’re blessed with an angular case that is fully polished and provides 100 metres of water resistance.
Overall, though many would shy away from a sports watch that is all polish, I actually like this touch. After a few days on the track or at your desk, the case should bear a few scratches; giving it a used look that pairs well with its classic panda dial.
The dial
Speaking of that dial, which harkens back to the golden age of racing, it’s perfect. It has a sunburst finish on silver which gives it both a rough and new look. The circular patterned sub dials are like buzzing hornets’ nests constantly reminding you of your progress or lack thereof. And finally, the use of aged coloured lume is applied with just the right touch.
All this makes for a dial that instantly gives you modern vintage vibes.
The strap
Securing the Carrera 60th Anniversary to your wrist is a grained, perforated, black calf leather strap. It’s simple in construction yet the grain adds depth to the strap and gives it an aged look. It also features a nice taper to a polished pin buckle.
I appreciate TAG Heuer’s decision not to use contrast stitching in this case. This strap is only here in a supporting role to the main attraction. By keeping it simple, our attention always comes back to the dial.
The movement
Powering this Carrera is the Heuer 02 movement. Based on the CH80 movement, the updated Heuer 02 is TAG Heuer’s in-house workhorse that can be found in many of the brand’s references. And rightfully so, as it has all the specifications you could want. It beats at a smooth 28,800 vph. The power reserve is a convenient 80 hours. The movement is also aesthetically pleasing with its Côtes de Genève finishing and black oscillating wheel.
As a chronograph movement, there isn’t much I could add to make it better.
The verdict
Overall, the TAG Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary is a watch dripping with nostalgia. From the iconic panda dial to the boxed sapphire crystal, it feels like a watch plucked from the ’60s. With such an aesthetic, there is no doubt how popular this watch will be. Especially when you take into account that TAG Heuer is only producing this celebratory piece in a limited run of 600.
So if you love ’60s era chronographs, with the Carrera being one of the most storied references of that time, this watch may be just the right one for you.
TAG Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary pricing and availability:
The TAG Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary is currently available at TAG Heuer Boutiques and retailers. Price: US$7,400
| Brand | TAG Heuer |
| Model | Carrera Chronograph 60th Anniversary |
| Case Diameter | 39mm (D) x 14.7mm (T) x 47.7mm (L2L) |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Water Resistance | 100m |
| Dial | Silver, Panda Dial |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire crystal and caseback |
| Strap | Black racing perforated calf skin grained strap |
| Lug Width | 19mm |
| Movement | Manufacture automatic calibre Heuer 02 |
| Power Reserve | 80 hour |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, 30min/12 hour chronograph |
| Availability | Now, limited to 600 pcs. |
| Price | US$7,400 |