The Low-Down

There is something utterly classic about blue. Bright colours are fun in the summer and most people like a pop of colour here and there, but blue has a timeless elegance and classic appeal like a gent’s blazer, in blue naturally! TAG Heuer’s latest release is a new version of its 02T-driven Carrera in blue…so far so classic.

In 2015 TAG Heuer gave Revolution an exclusive ‘heads up’ that it was unveiling the 02 calibre, complete with tourbillon. Needless to say, at the proposed price point of less than CHF 15,000 it caused more than a little excitement when the watch was launched in 2016. There have been a couple of iterations since, including the Piece Unique that the brand kindly donated to our Covid Solidarity auction in 2020. Today, a version in blue livery has been unveiled and it looks great!

Let’s just take a minute to appreciate the 02T. Not only is this an incredibly well-priced tourbillon, but each one is also submitted to COSC for certification. Says Revolution Founder Wei Koh, “Most tourbillons have two things in common. They are expensive. And they are not tested for their accuracy. Of the innumerable brands that make tourbillons there were but two that actually certified their watches as chronometers before TAG Heuer launched the 02T, Patek Philippe and Chopard L.U.C. So TAG Heuer understood correctly that the first question that would be asked when they launched the world’s most accessibly priced tourbillon would be, ‘OK it’s lower in price but how well does it work?’ By becoming one of only three brands that chronometrically certifies their movements, they brought a swift and emphatic end to that conversation.”

IMHO

The new Carrera is housed in a 45mm grade five titanium case, with titanium pushers crown and display case back. The blue accents on the case include the rubber on the crown and pushers and the striking ceramic bezel, with white tachymeter scale and brand logo at 12 o’clock. New for this release is a titanium bracelet with folding deployment clasp. Where previous versions have had leather or rubber straps, the new titanium bracelet certainly adds to the sporty nature of this sporty chrono.

The blue tones continue on the dial, with sunburst finish and the bridges of the tourbillon cage are also blue. Flip the watch over to marvel at the movement and one will encounter the open-worked oscillating rotor that has a matching PVD blue finish. Blue dial sports chronographs are always popular and this watch with its flying tourbillon, eye-catching blue dial and ceramic bezel is truly impressive. It really is a very happy blue Monday!

Tech Specs

Movement: Calibre HEUER02T COSC
Case and Dial: 45mm titanium case with titanium crown, pushers and display caseback
Strap: Titanium bracelet with titanium folding deployment clasp
Availability and Pricing: Available immediately at CHF 20,500 in a limited edition of 250 pieces