There are watches we admire from a distance, and then there are some that enter our lives before we eventually learn how to explain why they matter. For many enthusiasts, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 belongs to the latter category and was one of the first watches that made Swiss watchmaking feel immediate, sporty and personal. It was not often the most complicated watch in the room, but it was not trying to be.

The Formula 1 came in many colors, was relatively accessible and was closely tied to the energy of motorsport without ever taking itself too seriously. I have a soft spot for it as my first “serious” Swiss watch was a fun and bright red Formula 1 from 2008.

The pastel edition TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph is cased 38mm TH-Polylight and paired with color matching rubber straps, opaline dial, and a TH-Polylight bidirectional bezel

Following the revival of the Formula 1 in modern Solargraph form last year, the new releases continue to build on a design language focused on self-expression. First introduced in 1986, the Formula 1 was the first watch to carry the TAG Heuer name, with its bold composite cases and youthful aesthetics. That spirit continues with the latest additions to the line, as TAG Heuer introduces a new pastel collection for the Formula 1 38mm Solargraph.

The new pastel collection made its debut during the Miami Grand Prix and comprises five different models. Three are cased in 38mm TH-Polylight and paired with matching rubber straps: pastel blue, pastel pink and beige. Each is fitted with a milky opaline dial, a color-matched TH-Polylight bidirectional bezel, applied indexes with Super-LumiNova, a date window at three o’clock and 100 meters of water resistance for peace of mind. The TH-Polylight models are limited to 3,500 pieces for the beige edition, 3,000 pieces for the pastel blue edition, and 2,500 pieces for the pastel pink edition.

Rounding up the collection are two steel bracelet models with diamond-set indexes. The pastel green edition features a green opaline dial and matching bezel, while the lavender blue version pairs a pastel blue dial with a pastel pink minuterie and central seconds hand. Both are housed in 38mm sandblasted steel cases and fitted with three-row steel bracelets. The steel bracelet models are limited to 1,500 pieces for the pastel green edition and 1,000 pieces for the lavender blue edition.

All five models are powered by the Caliber TH50-00 Solargraph movement, similarly found in last year’s relaunch, allowing them to be charged through either natural or artificial light. Two minutes of direct sunlight is enough to power the watch for a full day, while a full charge provides up to 10 months of autonomy in total darkness.

Tech Specs

TAG Heuer Formula 1 38mm Solargraph TH-Polylight

Movement Caliber TH50-00 Solargraph, powered by natural or artificial light; two minutes of direct sunlight provides one day of power; full charge provides up to 10 months of autonomy in total darkness

Functions Hours, minutes, central seconds and date

Case 38mm; TH-Polylight case and bidirectional TH-Polylight bezel with 60-second/minute scale; water resistant to 100m

Dial Beige, pastel blue or pastel pink opaline dial with matching or complementary flange; rhodium-plated polished applied indexes with white Super-LumiNova; lacquered central seconds hand

Strap Color-matched rubber strap with steel pin buckle

Price CHF 1,850

Availability Beige limited to 3,500 pieces; pastel blue limited to 3,000 pieces; pastel pink limited to 2,500 pieces

TAG Heuer Formula 1 38mm Solargraph Stainless Steel

Movement Caliber TH50-00 Solargraph, powered by natural or artificial light; two minutes of direct sunlight provides one day of power; full charge provides up to 10 months of autonomy in total darkness

Functions Hours, minutes, central seconds and date

Case 38mm; sandblasted steel case; TH-Polylight bidirectional bezel with 60-second/minute scale; water resistant to 100m

Dial Pastel green or pastel blue opaline dial; green model with green flange and green lacquered central seconds hand; lavender-blue model with pastel pink flange and pastel pink lacquered central seconds hand; rhodium-plated polished shield indexes at 6, 9 and 12 o’clock with white Super-LumiNova; eight VS diamond indexes

Bracelet Sandblasted three-row stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp, double safety push-buttons and adjustment link extension

Price CHF 2,650

Availability Pastel green limited to 1,500 pieces; lavender blue limited to 1,000 pieces