april 12, 2008 07:08am

Basel World 2008 - Tag Heuer

New models introduced by Tag Heuer at BaselWorld 2008:

Formula 1 Kimi Räikkönen
Formula Grande Date Chronograph INDY 500
Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph
SLR Calibre S Laptimer 1/100th
Grand Carrera Calibre 6RS Diamond Bezel
Grand Carrera Grande Date GMT Calibre 8RS Diamond Bezel
Grand Carrera Calibre 17RS Chronograph Rose Gold Limited Edition

TAG Heuer Unveils a New Watchmaking World First at Baselworld 2008:

A futuristic high performance eco-responsible GT Concept Car inspired by a new stunning TAG Heuer Concept Chronograph, the Grand Carrera Calibre 36 Caliper !

FROM F1 TO GT CARS

TAG Heuer launches premium upgrades to its major Formula 1, SLR and Grand Carrera GT and motor-racing-inspired collections and sets a new milestone by integrating its latest Concept Chronograph, the Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RSCaliper, into the dashboard of a Ken Okuyama-designed and TAG Heuer-inspired GT sportscar.
From 1860 to 1/10,000th of a second. From Scuderia Ferrari to Vodafone McLaren Mercedes. From five-time Grand Prix Champion Juan Manuel Fangio in the 1950s to FIA 2007 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen. From F1 to the most prestigious GT sports cars on the open road…When it comes to true motor-racing lineage and racing DNA, TAG Heuer outpaces the pack!

At Baselworld 2008, TAG Heuer extends its lead even further by pushing its avant-garde motorracing lines into the outer reaches of luxury, and by partnering with Ken Okuyama to create a watchmaking world first: a futuristic high performance eco-responsible GT Concept Car inspired by a TAG Heuer Concept Chronograph!

TAG Heuer Formula 1: Four F1 Drivers and one Indy 500 female Driver to wear all-new upgrades of motor-racing’s coolest casual sportswatch!
Back in the 1980s, the original TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 helped establish the brand as a world leader in the prestigious sports watch market. Now completely revamped and redesigned, it will star in the 2008 Formula 1 racing season on the wrists of four F1 heavyweights: 2007 FIA World Champion Kimi Räikkönen, runner-up and best F1 rookie ever Lewis Hamilton, new Vodaphone McLaren Mercedes teammate Heikki Kovalainen and new Scuderia Toro Rosso driver Sébastien Bourdais , a 4-time consecutive ChampCar world series champion and longtime TAG Heuer ambassador. It will also star in the IRL and Indy 500 championship on the wrist of female driver Sarah Fisher.

One chronograph, 5 drivers – a world racing first!

New features include a large 44mm case , an oversized dashboard counter at 6 o’clock, a double gradation semi-circular counter at 9 o’clock; and large date display at 12 o’clock. The Classic TAG Heuer Six features are all here: “Easy Grip” screw-in crown; titanium carbide coated unidirectional turning bezel with raised fine brushed steel numbers; 200 meters water-resistant; luminescent markers on hands and indexes; anti-scratch sapphire crystal; rubber strap or steel bracelet with double safety clasp and extension system. Another racing-inspired feature: steel titanium carbide-coated bumper protecting the crown and pushbuttons.

New TAG Heuer Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph Kimi Räikkönen Limited Edition To celebrate Kimi Räikkönen’s extraordinary career, and in particular his 2007 FIA World Champion title with Scuderia Ferrari, TAG Heuer launches an limited edition of the new TAG Heuer Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph Kimi Räikkönen Limited Edition. Sleekly aerodynamic, with a black dial sublimely touched with red, TAG Heuer logo and Kimi Räikkönen inscription, as well as precise to 1/10th of a second, it is available with a classic steel bracelet or a brand-new two-tone (red and black) rubber strap.

New TAG Heuer Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph INDY 500

To celebrate its long-term partnership with the Indy Racing League and the Indy 500 , where as Official Timekeeper, TAG Heuer has mastered the challenge of accurate measurement to 1/10,000th of a second, TAG Heuer is proud to present the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph INDY 500 Special Edition accurate to within 1/10th of a second. The polished bezel with authentic red “INDY 500” sports a tachymeter scale. The pearled dial, in “Black Gold” or silver plate, is also adorned with the “INDY 500” logo. This new Chronograph will be worn by female driver Sarah Fisher at the 500 miles of Indianapolis as well as during all the Indy Racing League races of the 2008 season. Sarah became the youngest ever driver to participate in the Indy 500 at the age of just 17, and has been a TAG Heuer ambassador since 2002. She was voted IRL’s most popular driver in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

New TAG Heuer Formula 1 Grande Date Chronograph

This new addition to the TAG Heuer Formula 1 line is endowed with an oversized case (44mm). Five new chronographs accurate to the 1/10th of a second are available, with an all-black version at the front of the pack: black titanium carbide-coated case, bezel, crown, pushbuttons, black dial and rubber strap. Also available with polished steel case, titanium carbide-coated bezel, crown, and pushbuttons and a choice of black or silver dial and stainless steel bracelet or black rubber strap.

TAG Heuer SLR Laptimer 1/100th of a second: the most innovative and accurate car-racing chronograph, celebrating McLaren-Mercedes SLR GT cars as well as Juan Manuel Fangio
From zero to 80 kmh in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 300 kmh, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, launched in 2004, is one of the world’s most powerful and exclusive sports cars.
The first SLR chronograph, produced in 2004, marked the next step in a successful partnership that has linked Mercedes with TAG Heuer since 1995 (and McLaren since 1985) These high-luxury brands share the same core values: performance, design, prestige, innovation, and, of course, a passion for car racing. The mutual history and heritage goes back even further, to 1955, the year TAG Heuer Ambassador Juan Manuel Fangio drove the first Mercedes SLR (Sports, Light, Racer) “Silver Arrow” around the hairpin bends of the Mille Miglia,” one of the most hair-raising and breathtaking circuits in motor racing. Fangio was wearing on his wrist that day, just as countless Formula One drivers ever since, a TAG Heuer timepiece – called Heuer at the time.

THE SLR: A Brief History of a Dream Watch celebrating a Dream Machine:

2004: The SLR Chronograph Calibre 36 R by TAG Heuer

This limited edition is exclusively reserved for the owners of the SLR dream car. Like the ultra-luxury sports car that inspired it, is an audaciously high-tech creation with the look and allure of a true classic. Still in production and regularly acquired by new SLR owners, the SLR Calibre 36 R is powered by the 36,000 beats/hour superlative TAG Heuer mechanical chronograph movement exclusively equipped with a regulator plate separating the hour hand from the minute hand, hence faithfully reflecting the SLR dream car dashboard.

2006: TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz Enthusiast Chronograph Limited Edition

An all-new upscale chronograph with a 43mm dial and a powerful design capitalizing on the most distinctive SLR chronograph elements: pushbuttons on the top of the case, Mercedes star logo on the dial, and distinctively shaped hands. This chronograph, dedicated to dream car lovers and sportswatch connoisseurs, comes in an exclusive limited edition of 3,500 pieces – equal to the number of SLR cars to be manufactured.

2007: TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz Limited Edition

The next stage in the evolution of the SLR series, this model combines a much more complex and aggressive look with a larger dial (45mm) and two avant-garde features specific to the SLR series: crown at 9 o’clock and patented pushbuttons set at a 45° angle. For the first time, it is also available with a rugged, powerful steel bracelet in addition to the rubber strap.

2008: Introducing the TAG Heuer SLR Calibre S Laptimer 1/100th of a second Chronograph!

The TAG Heuer SLR Calibre S Laptimer Chronograph (47mm) is the first SLR that is not a limited edition. An important new permanent entry in the TAG Heuer catalog, the Laptimer 1/100th also represents a new advancement in TAG Heuer’s exclusive Calibre S movement. The revolutionary Calibre S has been further evolved to create a unique motor–racing inspired mechanism: combining 1/100th of a second “flyback” chronograph, memory and indication up to 20 laps, and direct access to best lap time, the new chronograph meets the highest expectations of the true racing aficionado. Like the revolutionary and Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix awarded Microtimer in 2003, it’s not only an ultra-accurate wrist chronograph but also a timekeeping system on the wrist, this time with analog time indications display. Along with the Carrera Calibre 360 and the Link Calibre S, the SLR Calibre S Laptimer is TAG Heuer third 1/100th second analog chronograph, making TAG Heuer more than ever the master of ultimate precision in the field of luxury watches.

From CARRERA to Grand CARRERA: the Premium Avant-Garde TAG Heuer Collection inspired by contemporary GT cars is now inspiring a new futuristic GT Car!

The original CARRERA was born in the pits and paddocks of the Twelve Hours of Sebring in 1962, where Jack Heuer, Official Timekeeper of the event, first heard of the legendary Carrera Panamericana Mexico Road Race, the racing world’s most grueling endurance test. Launched in 1964, the original CARRERA also served as a prestigious tribute to Juan Manuel Fangio, the TAG Heuer ambassadorial hero who won the Mayor class of the fourth running of the Carrera in 1954. In 1969, a CARRERA automatic chronograph was added to the pack; in 1996, the entire line was revamped inside and out – a bold reinterpretation of classic luxury watchmaking with a distinctly modern and timeless aesthetic inspired by the technical and design advancements in automotive engineering.
In 2004, TAG Heuer’s multi award-winning R&D Team began working on an even more prestigious incarnation of the CARRERA: the Grand CARRERA. Launched to great acclaim and commercial success in June 2007, the Grand CARRERA draws its inspiration from modern GT cars. It is powered by the first mechanical line of movements with Rotating System , an exclusive new function that enables the user to read easily and intuitively small seconds, a second time zone (GMT) or chronograph time by displaying the elapsed time .
All models are "Côtes de Genève" decorated on the Rotating System, with polished, beveled edges complemented by curved, faceted horns on both case sides, a curved, sapphire crystal with double antireflective treatment and a double sapphire crystal caseback sealed by six screws. Curved faceted markers on the dials and oversized screw-in crowns and pushbutton clasps complete the sophisticated look.

At Baselworld 2008, TAG Heuer introduces 2 ultra-luxury diamond editions of the acclaimed Grand CARRERA Collection…

TAG Heuer Grand CARRERA Calibre 6 RS Diamond Bezel

Bejeweled with 68 Top Wesselton diamonds (1.13 carats) on its polished fixed stainless-steel bezel, the new unisex Grand CARRERA Calibre 6 RS is classically elegant and subtly daring, with a brown dial and a choice of steel or alligator strap with solid steel folding clasp. The 40.2mm diameter timepiece is equipped with a TAG Heuer Calibre 6 RS movement, with Rotating Small Second System at 6 o’clock decorated with “Côtes de Genève” and diamond polished facets. Other features include solid steel folding clasp with safety pushbuttons and applied TAG Heuer logo.

TAG Heuer Grand CARRERA Grande Date GMT Calibre 8 RS Diamond Bezel

The first-ever TAG Heuer automatic movement with a “large date” now proudly sparkles with 72 Top Wesselton diamonds (1.2 carats) on its polished fixed stainless-steel bezel. The hand-applied “Grand Date” is visible through a beveled aperture at 12 o’clock. Ideal for chic globetrotters, the bigger,
42.5mm case also displays a Rotating GMT System (2nd Time Zone) at 6 o’clock. The Calibre 8 RS sports a black dial and a steel bracelet or black alligator strap with solid-steel folding clasp featuring safety pushbuttons and applied TAG Heuer logo.

A new ultra-luxury chronograph…

TAG Heuer Grand CARRERA Chronograph Calibre 17 RS Rose Gold Limited Edition

A COSC-certified chronograph in solid 18-carat rose gold: the larger (43mm) stopwatch size, screwed in crown, screw-in pushbuttons and hand-applied date window at 6 o’clock, give it he distinctive look of a classic TAG Heuer chronograph. Two limited editions of 500 are available with hand-sewn brown alligator strap, solid 18-carat gold pin buckle, and a silver or brown dial equipped with 2 Rotating Systems in solid 18-carat rose gold (small seconds at 3 o’clock; chronograph minute at 9 o’clock). … and finally, the ultimate in premium avant-garde design and technology:

The Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph as featured on the dashboard of the limited edition Ken Okuyama-designed K.O. 7 futuristic, high performance and eco-compatible sportscar. Indeed Ken Okuyama has managed to design an high performance GT sportscar with a limited environmental impact thanks to the systematic use of advanced light weight materials such as aluminum, titanium and carbon, enabling him to achieve an extraordinary horsepower to weight relationship. It offers a chance to enjoy the thrill of stunning accelerations as well as the pleasure of sporty driving while being environmentally responsible! Ken Okuyama’s vision and commitment as shared by TAG Heuer may well become a must-have factor in the GT car industry in the near future.

Japanese Car Designer Ken Okuyama:

“The interior of the K.O. 7 was inspired by the Grand Carrera, and we mounted the extraordinary Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph on its dashboard. TAG Heuer chronographs are constructed in rich lightweight materials of the finest quality. Like the K.O. 7, their powerful proportions catch your eye first, and then you discover the depth of refinement, the beautiful craftsmanship, and the attention to detail. Collaborating with TAG Heuer made it possible to demonstrate something in common between our two industries: an endless quest for quality, performances and design innovations driven by new technologies.”
The first mechanical automatic chronograph that measures and displays 1/10ths of a second…and the only timepiece in history to inspire and feature in a GT sportscar!

TAG Heuer has pulled off yet another world first: powered by a column wheel movement, the Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph is the only automatic chronograph capable of measuring and displaying 1/10ths of a second! Visible through a tinted double sapphire crystal, the COSC-certified movement oscillates at an astonishing 36,000 vibrations per hour. This enables the central seconds hand to tick off 1/10th second intervals, giving at-a-glance readings of an unparalleled exactitude – an engineering feat of the highest level.
The breathtaking new creation has a stylish 43mm, black titanium carbide-coated case, and a Calibre 36 RS movement with power reserve and two “Black Gold” Rotating Systems indicating the chronograph minutes at 3 o’clock and the chronograph hours at 6 o’clock. It also features a Linear Second at 9 o’clock. Another principle design innovation is the way in which it displays this information.

TAG Heuer has developed an exclusive Rotating Scale that permits a precise reading of 1/10th of a second – magnified 10X! The new Titanium carbide-coated and rubber bracelet with folding buckle is another stunning innovation.
The super-sleek K.O. 7 sportscar was launched at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show together with the K.O. 8 coupé on March 4th, 2008 in the presence of Jean-Christophe Babin, TAG Heuer President & CEO and Ken Okuyama. Available in an exclusive limited edition of 99 vehicles, it will be showcased at the TAG Heuer booth throughout Baselworld 2008. An exceptional momentum celebrating TAG Heuer’s unique racing DNA as well as passion for advanced technology and design and unparallel support to avant-garde designers!
Ken Okuyama has worked as a Design Director and Chief Designer for General Motors, Porsche AG and Pininfarina S.p.A. He has overseen design for Ferrari Enzo, Maserati Quattroporte and many others. Alongside "Ken Okuyama Cars” and his various consultancy practices, Ken produces several premium avant-garde design products, including "Yamagata Koubou" furniture and the "Ken Okuyama Eyes" eyewear series. The author of several books on design, he is currently a visiting professor at the Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, California), Tama Art University, Kanazawa Art College, and the Nagoya University of Arts (Japan). He is also Vice Chairman for the "Good Design Award."

A dream machine for a dream chronograph… A unique momentum to celebrate TAG Heuer’s unique racing DNA and commitment to design, technology and environmental responsibility!

april 12, 2008 06:05am

Grand Carrera Calibre 17 Pink Gold

The TAG Heuer Grand Carrera Caliber 17 Chronograph will be available in a luxurious 18K rose gold edition, whose production will be limited. The use of 18K gold underscores the prestige of this new 43mm Carrera model, which features a distinctive chronograph display utilizing rotating discs to display elapsed time. These functions are provided by the TAG Heuer 17 RS Calibre, a self-winding movement which is COSC-certified.

The TAG Heuer Grand Carrera Calibre 17 Pink Gold Chronograph will be presented in two versions, one with a silver dial, and the other with a brown dial; both models will feature distinctive framed chronograph dials decorated with Cotes de Geneve patterns. 500 pieces in each dial color will be made. The watches are water resistant to 100 meters, and feature treated sapphire crystals on both sides. Straps are crafted from alligator, and the buckle is in 18K gold.

april 12, 2008 05:46am

Grand Carrera 36RS Caliper Chronograph

The TAG Heuer Grand Carrera 36RS Caliper Concept Chronograph watch carries on TAG Heuer's legacy of cutting-edge luxury sports watches. In fact, this exciting new TAG Heuer creation was fitted to the dashboard of famed GT-car designer Ken Okuyama's futuristic and extremely efficient K.O. 7 GT sports car. Mr. Okuyama, who also was behind the creation of the Ferrari Enzo, expressed his enthusiasm for the TAG Heuer partnership:

The interior of the K.O. 7 was inspired by the Grand Carrera, and we mounted the extraordinary Grand Carrera Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph on its dashboard. TAG Heuer chronographs are constructed in rich lightweight materials of the finest quality. Like the K.O. 7, their powerful proportions catch your eye first, and then you discover the depth of refinement, the beautiful craftsmanship, and the attention to detail. Collaborating with TAG Heuer made it possible to demonstrate something in common between our two industries: an endless quest for quality, performances and design innovations driven by new technologies"

The TAG Heuer Caliper Chronograph features a 43mm titanium carbide-coated case, a tachymeter bezel, and a rubber strap. The dial is inspired by sports car instrumentation, and features distinctive rotating chronograph displays and a unique linear seconds indicator. Movement is the self-winding Caliber 36 RS, a COSC-certified chronometer. An extraordinarily rapid 36,000 vph balance frequency, allows the chronograph to record intervals with precision to within 1/10th second, and an innovative rotating scale allows a precise reading of the second intervals. Chronograph functions are controlled via a traditional column-wheel.

The watch is fitted with sleek chronograph buttons whose design resembles the pedals of a GT car. A patterned rubber strap completes the high-performance aesthetic of this exciting new TAG Heuer chronograph.



Press Release:

The Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph as featured on the dashboard of the limited edition Ken Okuyama-designed K.O. 7 futuristic, high performance and eco-compatible sportscar. Indeed Ken Okuyama has managed to design an high performance GT sportscar with a limited environmental impact thanks to the systematic use of advanced light weight materials such as aluminum, titanium and carbon, enabling him to achieve an extraordinary horsepower to weight relationship. It offers a chance to enjoy the thrill of stunning accelerations as well as the pleasure of sporty driving while being environmentally responsible! Ken Okuyama's vision and commitment as shared by TAG Heuer may well become a must-have factor in the GT car industry in the near future.

Japanese Car Designer Ken Okuyama: "The interior of the K.O. 7 was inspired by the Grand Carrera, and we mounted the extraordinary Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph on its dashboard. TAG Heuer chronographs are constructed in rich lightweight materials of the finest quality. Like the K.O. 7, their powerful proportions catch your eye first, and then you discover the depth of refinement, the beautiful craftsmanship, and the attention to detail. Collaborating with TAG Heuer made it possible to demonstrate something in common between our two industries: an endless quest for quality, performances and design innovations driven by new technologies."

The first mechanical automatic chronograph that measures and displays 1/10ths of a second... and the only timepiece in history to inspire and feature in a GT sportscar!

TAG Heuer has pulled off yet another world first: powered by a column wheel movement, the Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph is the only automatic chronograph capable of measuring and displaying 1/10ths of a second! Visible through a tinted double sapphire crystal, the COSC-certified movement oscillates at an astonishing 36,000 vibrations per hour. This enables the central seconds hand to tick off 1/10th second intervals, giving at-a-glance readings of an unparalleled exactitude – an engineering feat of the highest level.

The breathtaking new creation has a stylish 43mm, black titanium carbide-coated case, and a Calibre 36 RS movement with power reserve and two "Black Gold" Rotating Systems indicating the chronograph minutes at 3 o'clock and the chronograph hours at 6 o'clock. It also features a Linear Second at 9 o'clock. Another principle design innovation is the way in which it displays this information. TAG Heuer has developed an exclusive Rotating Scale that permits a precise reading of 1/10th of a second – magnified 10X! The new Titanium carbide-coated and rubber bracelet with folding buckle is another stunning innovation.

The super-sleek K.O. 7 sportscar was launched at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show together with the K.O. 8 coupé on March 4th, 2008 in the presence of Jean-Christophe Babin, TAG Heuer President & CEO and Ken Okuyama. Available in an exclusive limited edition of 99 vehicles, it will be showcased at the TAG Heuer booth throughout Baselworld 2008. An exceptional momentum celebrating TAG Heuer's unique racing DNA as well as passion for advanced technology and design and unparallel support to avant-garde designers!

Ken Okuyama has worked as a Design Director and Chief Designer for General Motors, Porsche AG and Pininfarina S.p.A. He has overseen design for Ferrari Enzo, Maserati Quattroporte and many others. Alongside "Ken Okuyama Cars" and his various consultancy practices, Ken produces several premium avant-garde design products, including "Yamagata Koubou" furniture and the "Ken Okuyama Eyes" eyewear series. The author of several books on design, he is currently a visiting professor at the Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, California), Tama Art University, Kanazawa Art College, and the Nagoya University of Arts (Japan). He is also Vice Chairman for the "Good Design Award."

A dream machine for a dream chronograph... A unique momentum to celebrate TAG Heuer's unique racing DNA and commitment to design, technology and environmental responsibility!

april 12, 2008 05:30am

ModeLabs makes Tag Heuer a Mobile Phone

Modelabs, the same people that created the Hummer and Levi mobile phone, is working with Tag Heuer to bring the high-end Meridiist to market. Unfortunately, the Tag Heuer Meridiist will cost around €3,400 to €3,900 (about $5,500 to $7,000) - depending on the options you take. So not for poor people :)

The Tag Heuer Meridiist seems like a decent phone from the front, boasting a metallic keypad and what appears to be great build quality.

As you'd suspect, the feature set on the Tag Heuer Merediist leaves much to be desired, just like most other luxury phones that you find on the market.

The $7,000 handset gets a 2 megapixel camera, 1.9-inch QVGA display, a secondary OLED display and Bluetooth.

No question this is one expensive Mobile Phone, for the features included, but all this phone has to do is being exclusive and phone ... not? ... or maybe just "sois belle et tais-toi" :) which is a bit difficult for a phone!

Of course the above is all speculation, we have to wait upon the release to see what & how much ...

april 12, 2008 04:46am

Tag Heuer Meridiist Mobile Phone Agreeme

Modelabs Group and TAG Heuer sign an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement for the creation and distribution of a range of “tailor-made” mobile phones

Paris, November 26th 2007 – TAG Heuer (LVMH group), the world leader in prestigious sports watches and chronographs and the fourth biggest luxury watch brand in the world, and ModeLabs Group, originator of the “Mobile On Demand” offer ("MDL" code, ISIN code: FR0010060665, SBF 250), have announced the signature of an exclusive international licensing agreement to design, produce and market mobile phones under the TAG Heuer label.
This is a world-first agreement between the field of mobile phones and that of luxury watchmaking. The first exceptional communication instruments bearing the TAG Heuer signature will reflect the functional excellence and advanced design characteristic of the Swiss watch brand. The latter has assigned its teams of designers and watch developers to this project for a full three years, thereby creating a full range of entirely “tailor-made” mobile phones and related accessories.

The commercial launch of the first TAG Heuer mobile phone is scheduled for the second half of 2008.

june 23, 2007 05:02am

The 24 Hours of Le Mans

The 24 Hours of Le Mans: TAG Heuer Joins Sébastien Bourdais and Peugeot Sport!



In 2007, TAG Heuer is Official Timekeeper and official watch, chronograph and glasses sponsor of Peugeot Sport. TAG Heuer is very proud to support the Peugeot Sport team in the oldest and most prestigious endurance race for sports cars and sports-car prototypes.

The history of TAG Heuer is inscribed in this legendary race through its historical involvement in motor sports, its extreme-precision cutting-edge research in the measurement of time and also through the renowned Monaco chronograph, which American actor Steve McQueen chose to wear in the 1970 film “Le Mans” in homage to world-famous driver Jo Siffert.

This year, TAG Heuer ambassador and driver Sébastien Bourdais will wear TAG Heuer Avant-Garde Eyewear "Night Vision" glasses, which have been specially designed for this event to provide drivers with maximum comfort and peak visual performance during these 24 hours.

If you would like to talk directly with Sébastien Bourdais about his involvement in designing TAG Heuer Avant-Garde Eyewear glasses and his state of mind before beginning the legendary 24 hours, please post your questions now at www.tagheuer.com and join us Thursday, 14 June from 4 pm to 5 pm (GMT+2) for a live chat and video broadcast!

may 09, 2007 11:16am

America's Cup 2007 - Louis Vuitton Cup

America's Cup 2007
TAG Heuer becomes official chronograph, timekeeper and sunglasses partner of the China Team Challenge for the America’s Cup 2007

“It is with great pride that TAG Heuer embarks again on this legendary sailing adventure, made even more extraordinary because we are now siding with the first-ever Chinese challenger in the 151-year history of the America’s Cup,” says TAG Heuer CEO and President Jean-Christophe Babin. “This partnership is an important part of TAG Heuer’s global brand commitment to the People’s Republic of China, where TAG Heuer is now distributed in the best high-end watch and jewelry stores, including exclusive boutiques in the major cities. In December 2004, TAG Heuer dramatically increased its emotional bond with the Chinese people by signing Chinese NBA basketball star Yao Ming as one of its major global ambassadors. TAG Heuer’s partnerships with Yao Ming and, now, China Team, is emblematic of TAG Heuer determination to strengthen its fame and awareness in China, as well as its commitment to offer and share with the Chinese public its unrivaled experience and knowledge of the prestigious sports that have inspired TAG Heuer watchmakers for 145 years.”

Along with sophisticated timing devices, TAG Heuer will supply China Team members with wrist chronographs specially developed for the America’s Cup and sunglasses from its Golden Silmo and Reddot awards winning Sport Vision collection. In particular, the revolutionary Aquaracer Calibre S chronograph with synchronized countdown-chronograph function, will equip the members of the Afterguard. The Calibre S is a major breakthrough in prestigious and sporty watchmaking as it allows sailors for the first time ever to combine complex functionalities, ease of use and utmost elegance in an analog chronograph timepiece. Thanks to its patented bi-directional engines and hands, the Calibre S offers for the first time in centuries, a very simple, stylish and easy-to-read display of information.

In Sunglasses, China Team racing members will be equipped with the Curve TAG Heuer Sport Vision frames, allowing a very sharp and broad vision field thanks to their curve 8 shape and the ultra sophisticated polarized, antireflection treated and hydrophobic lenses specifically developed for sea conditions and its related light filtering challenges.

TAG Heuer’s shield and logo will be prominently featured on the boom and afterdeck of China Team America’s Cup boats as well as on the China Team racing and sailing team uniforms and on their Valencia and Qingdao sailing bases.

http://www.americascup.com/en/americascup/teams/index.php?idIndex=&idContent=13811

Ranking on 09/05/2007

Ranking after LVC RR2 Flight 11
1 NZL 92 Emirates Team New Zealand 38
2 USA 98 BMW ORACLE Racing 37
3 ITA 94 Luna Rossa Challenge 35
4 ESP 97 Desafío Español 2007 29
5 SWE 96 Victory Challenge 26
6 ITA 99 Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team 22
7 RSA 83 Team Shosholoza 20
8 FRA 93 Areva Challenge 17
9 ITA 85 +39 Challenge 12
10 GER 89 United Internet Team Germany 5
11 CHN 95 China Team 3

may 09, 2007 11:16am

America's Cup 2007 - Louis Vuitton Cup

America's Cup 2007
TAG Heuer becomes official chronograph, timekeeper and sunglasses partner of the China Team Challenge for the America’s Cup 2007

“It is with great pride that TAG Heuer embarks again on this legendary sailing adventure, made even more extraordinary because we are now siding with the first-ever Chinese challenger in the 151-year history of the America’s Cup,” says TAG Heuer CEO and President Jean-Christophe Babin. “This partnership is an important part of TAG Heuer’s global brand commitment to the People’s Republic of China, where TAG Heuer is now distributed in the best high-end watch and jewelry stores, including exclusive boutiques in the major cities. In December 2004, TAG Heuer dramatically increased its emotional bond with the Chinese people by signing Chinese NBA basketball star Yao Ming as one of its major global ambassadors. TAG Heuer’s partnerships with Yao Ming and, now, China Team, is emblematic of TAG Heuer determination to strengthen its fame and awareness in China, as well as its commitment to offer and share with the Chinese public its unrivaled experience and knowledge of the prestigious sports that have inspired TAG Heuer watchmakers for 145 years.”

Along with sophisticated timing devices, TAG Heuer will supply China Team members with wrist chronographs specially developed for the America’s Cup and sunglasses from its Golden Silmo and Reddot awards winning Sport Vision collection. In particular, the revolutionary Aquaracer Calibre S chronograph with synchronized countdown-chronograph function, will equip the members of the Afterguard. The Calibre S is a major breakthrough in prestigious and sporty watchmaking as it allows sailors for the first time ever to combine complex functionalities, ease of use and utmost elegance in an analog chronograph timepiece. Thanks to its patented bi-directional engines and hands, the Calibre S offers for the first time in centuries, a very simple, stylish and easy-to-read display of information.

In Sunglasses, China Team racing members will be equipped with the Curve TAG Heuer Sport Vision frames, allowing a very sharp and broad vision field thanks to their curve 8 shape and the ultra sophisticated polarized, antireflection treated and hydrophobic lenses specifically developed for sea conditions and its related light filtering challenges.

TAG Heuer’s shield and logo will be prominently featured on the boom and afterdeck of China Team America’s Cup boats as well as on the China Team racing and sailing team uniforms and on their Valencia and Qingdao sailing bases.

http://www.americascup.com/en/americascup/teams/index.php?idIndex=&idContent=13811

Ranking on 09/05/2007

Ranking after LVC RR2 Flight 11
1 NZL 92 Emirates Team New Zealand 38
2 USA 98 BMW ORACLE Racing 37
3 ITA 94 Luna Rossa Challenge 35
4 ESP 97 Desafío Español 2007 29
5 SWE 96 Victory Challenge 26
6 ITA 99 Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team 22
7 RSA 83 Team Shosholoza 20
8 FRA 93 Areva Challenge 17
9 ITA 85 +39 Challenge 12
10 GER 89 United Internet Team Germany 5
11 CHN 95 China Team 3

may 04, 2007 11:13pm

A Passion for Excellence

Dear TAG Heuer Fans,
On the occasion of the Basel Fair, TAG Heuer celebrated 20 years of its emblematic Link series and inaugurated its new « Skin » stand.

As from now, you can find out about Link innovations and how Calibre S operates in an
interactive presentation, relive the 20 successful years of the Link series and the events of the 2007 version in the Baselworld 2007 section!

As regards our ambassadors, we are delighted to announce the arrival of Kimi Räikkönen as the new ambassador for TAG Heuer Avant-Garde Eyewear. He joins the Champ Car series driver, Sébastien Bourdais currently leading the Champ World Championship series, and the two Formula One prodigies, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso ! What success for the new TAG Heuer Formula 1 , worn by our champions on the podiums !

Jeff Gordon also became a legend, notching up the 76th victory of his career and leading the Nascar 2007 Championship. An ambassador since 2005, Jeff Gordon wears the Carrera Tachymètre Racing watch.

This promises to be a very exciting season for the TAG Heuer drivers to whom we wish every success. They certainly deserve it!

See you soon at www.tagheuer.com.

Yours sincerely,

Team TAG Heuer
La Chaux-de-Fonds
Switzerland

[Official News Letter of 05/05/2007]

may 02, 2007 02:03pm

TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz

Following the extraordinary success of the TAG Heuer SLR Chronograph Calibre 36R in 2004 (available exclusively for owners of the SLR car), and the TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz in 2006, TAG Heuer presents an even stronger version for 2007. The new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz, in a limited edition of 3,500, celebrates not only one of the world’s most powerful and exclusive sports cars, but also the long and fruitful alliance between TAG Heuer, McLaren and Mercedes-Benz. Its avant-garde design embodies the common values shared by these brands: prestige, innovation, and, of course, a passion for car racing. The new edition of the Chronograph has captured some of the most distinctive design elements of the latest version of the SLR Dream Machine, the famous SLR 722 edition powered by a 650 ps engine and reaching 337 km/h: the painted exposed black carbon front spoiler and palladium-grey wheels rim spider have inspired the titanium-carbide black tachymeter bezel, while the red SLR lettering and red-painted brake callipers are echoed by the red painted hands. Like the SLR 722, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes breathes more strength and pedigree than ever before.

The SLR’s innovative tradition continues with push buttons inclined at 45° (inspired by the paddle shifter of the SLR car), giving unparalleled ergonomic access to the chronograph function even while driving. The internal turning bezel is bi-directional, driven by a second crown at 9 o’clock that allows the driver to measure elapsed or remaining racing time. The exterior fixed bezel is finished in black fine-brushed titanium carbide with engraved tachymeter scale for calculating speeds.

Aimed at watch making connoisseurs and car racing fans, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz blends pure performance with the avant-garde. Its unique race car features, coupled with easy-to-read hands, spiral-effect dial, and a powerful steel bracelet or rubber strap that mirrors the SLR side grill, enhance its racing legitimacy, making it “the most authentic Chronograph for Professional Race Drivers and high profile GT owners on today’s watch market.”

may 02, 2007 02:03pm

TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz

Following the extraordinary success of the TAG Heuer SLR Chronograph Calibre 36R in 2004 (available exclusively for owners of the SLR car), and the TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz in 2006, TAG Heuer presents an even stronger version for 2007. The new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz, in a limited edition of 3,500, celebrates not only one of the world’s most powerful and exclusive sports cars, but also the long and fruitful alliance between TAG Heuer, McLaren and Mercedes-Benz. Its avant-garde design embodies the common values shared by these brands: prestige, innovation, and, of course, a passion for car racing. The new edition of the Chronograph has captured some of the most distinctive design elements of the latest version of the SLR Dream Machine, the famous SLR 722 edition powered by a 650 ps engine and reaching 337 km/h: the painted exposed black carbon front spoiler and palladium-grey wheels rim spider have inspired the titanium-carbide black tachymeter bezel, while the red SLR lettering and red-painted brake callipers are echoed by the red painted hands. Like the SLR 722, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes breathes more strength and pedigree than ever before.

The SLR’s innovative tradition continues with push buttons inclined at 45° (inspired by the paddle shifter of the SLR car), giving unparalleled ergonomic access to the chronograph function even while driving. The internal turning bezel is bi-directional, driven by a second crown at 9 o’clock that allows the driver to measure elapsed or remaining racing time. The exterior fixed bezel is finished in black fine-brushed titanium carbide with engraved tachymeter scale for calculating speeds.

Aimed at watch making connoisseurs and car racing fans, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz blends pure performance with the avant-garde. Its unique race car features, coupled with easy-to-read hands, spiral-effect dial, and a powerful steel bracelet or rubber strap that mirrors the SLR side grill, enhance its racing legitimacy, making it “the most authentic Chronograph for Professional Race Drivers and high profile GT owners on today’s watch market.”

may 02, 2007 02:02pm

TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz

Following the extraordinary success of the TAG Heuer SLR Chronograph Calibre 36R in 2004 (available exclusively for owners of the SLR car), and the TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz in 2006, TAG Heuer presents an even stronger version for 2007. The new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz, in a limited edition of 3,500, celebrates not only one of the world’s most powerful and exclusive sports cars, but also the long and fruitful alliance between TAG Heuer, McLaren and Mercedes-Benz. Its avant-garde design embodies the common values shared by these brands: prestige, innovation, and, of course, a passion for car racing. The new edition of the Chronograph has captured some of the most distinctive design elements of the latest version of the SLR Dream Machine, the famous SLR 722 edition powered by a 650 ps engine and reaching 337 km/h: the painted exposed black carbon front spoiler and palladium-grey wheels rim spider have inspired the titanium-carbide black tachymeter bezel, while the red SLR lettering and red-painted brake callipers are echoed by the red painted hands. Like the SLR 722, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes breathes more strength and pedigree than ever before.

The SLR’s innovative tradition continues with push buttons inclined at 45° (inspired by the paddle shifter of the SLR car), giving unparalleled ergonomic access to the chronograph function even while driving. The internal turning bezel is bi-directional, driven by a second crown at 9 o’clock that allows the driver to measure elapsed or remaining racing time. The exterior fixed bezel is finished in black fine-brushed titanium carbide with engraved tachymeter scale for calculating speeds.

Aimed at watch making connoisseurs and car racing fans, the new TAG Heuer SLR for Mercedes-Benz blends pure performance with the avant-garde. Its unique race car features, coupled with easy-to-read hands, spiral-effect dial, and a powerful steel bracelet or rubber strap that mirrors the SLR side grill, enhance its racing legitimacy, making it “the most authentic Chronograph for Professional Race Drivers and high profile GT owners on today’s watch market.”

april 30, 2007 11:06pm

TAG Heuer Monaco V4 (Pre) Released

According to WristDreams at BaselWorld Tag Heuer announced the Monaco V4 is now available in a pre-series of 20 units. Two of them have been worn by Tag Heuer representatives at the BaselWorld 2007.

It is still a long way until the belt-driven timepiece will be available on the market though. The V4 pre-series is currently being put through intensive testing to meet Tag Heuer's quality standards. The aim is also to obtain a COSC chronometer certification for the Monaco V4. The first batch will probably cost an enormous amount of money for a TAG. The second prodcution will probably cost a lot also, as this watch utilizes a breakthrough toothed-belt movement which is only available through the TAG Heuer brand.

april 28, 2007 10:50pm

Tag Heuer Personal Watch Assistant

If you are looking for a special Tag Heuer watch you can always use the Personal Assistant. This will allow you to make your personal watch by answering some simple questions. Select the Serie, Material, Bracelet, Dial, Movement the Size and Water resistance of your watch you want.

The result will be the watch that you would like the most.

Give it a try.
Tag Heuer Personal Watch Assistant

april 27, 2007 06:37pm

Tag Heuer New Link (Calibre S - 5 - 16)

For 20 years, TAG Heuer's LINK, born S/el (Sport/elegance) in 1987, has been the Swiss watch making world's superlative sports and elegance timepiece, and the emblematic icon of success achieved through mental strength and a sporty attitude to life . On the wrist of the world's number one golfer, Tiger Woods or a F1 racing legend such as Ayrton Senna, a Hollywood star like Matt Damon (The Bourne Supremacy), or a high-powered CEO, the LINK has become a universally recognized status symbol, with an emblematic design and precision-driven architecture unlike that of any other sports watch ever made.

The LINK bracelet , with its unique and recognizable signature S-shaped links, is a worldwide reference for its flexibility, wearer comfort, timeless aesthetics and peerless ergonomics.

First created in 1987 and called S/el for "Sports and Elegance," the benchmark design was endorsed in 1988 by Ayrton Senna , who wore it to three F1 World Championships. In 1999 , the S/el was boldly redesigned and relaunched worldwide as the LINK , with sports celebrity endorsements from great champions like Leonardo, Boris Becker, Marion Jones, Colin Jackson, or Monica Seles, to name but a few…

In 2003 , to honor golfing legend Tiger Woods , the series' new global ambassador, a prestigious new edition was launched with the legendary 1/10 of a second Link Calibre 36 mechanical chronograph as its flagship timepiece. The bracelet design was streamlined and the case, now cut from a solid steel block, was large-faced for optimum readability, but thinner and rimmed with a slender fixed bezel. While capitalizing on the inimitable strengths of its two predecessors, the luxury edition reflected more contemporary tastes for cleaner, bolder lines and economy of form.

Today, the addition of new sports Chronographs and lady size timepieces and endorsed by dynamic personalities like golfing great Tiger Woods and superstar actress and elegance icon Uma Thurman have consolidated the series' position as the world's leading "elegant sports watch", i.e. a sophisticated yet casual timepiece, utterly elegant in an executive board room, as well as cool and comfortable on golf course.

With new mechanical complications, up-market finishes and high-end added features, the superlative timepieces in the new high-prestige LINK Series are bigger, better and more stylish than ever.


LINK CALIBRE S: The world's most elegant luxury Chronograph

Since the second half of 19 century, Chronographs have displayed elapsed time in small, hard-to-read counters crowding dials with many kinds of information. The revolutionary, in-house developed and manufactured new Calibre S movement equipping the LINK Chronograph further enhances the pure elegance of the Link design, while providing more functions, user-friendliness and readability than ever in the high-end chronograph world. This truly revolutionary movement is a major milestone in Swiss watchmaking, outdating existing quartz and mechanical chronographs by combining the best of both technologies to offer a new standard that is unique and patented by TAG Heuer. It is to chronographs what the "Hybrid" engines have been to cars with their unique combination of the advantages of both electricity and gasoline. There will be a "before the Calibre S" and "after the Calibre S". The Calibre S heralds a revolution in Chronographs comparable to the one brought to watches in 2004 by the Monaco TAG Heuer V4 belt-driven mechanical movement.


Unlike all the other first-generation quartz chronographs marketed today, which continue to mimic the display architecture of mechanical movements, the exclusive LINK Chronograph Calibre S movement measures and displays watch and Chronograph functions with the same full-sized central hands associating the ultimate precision of a quartz beat with the unrivalled complexity of wheels and pinions of a mechanical chain.

Best-in-class readability, functionality, and 1/100 of a second accuracy

Even by TAG Heuer standards, the LINK Chronograph Calibre S is a technological marvel , combining the ultimate in quartz and mechanical innovations. A proprietary movement developed and patented by TAG Heuer, the Calibre S movement requires no fewer than 230 components and 5 high-performance bi-directional engines capable of twice the torque of conventional timepiece engines. This movement is produced and assembled by TAG Heuer both in its La Chaux-de-Fonds factory and a newly built workshop facility in Sion (Valais).


With a 42mm case and distinctive dashboard-inspired counters, the LINK Chronograph Calibre S fuses intuitive functions with a streamlined sensibility at the cutting edge of avant-garde design. Keeping and telling time has never been easier , with both Time and Chronograph display on the central hour, minute, and seconds hands. Simple and additional timing functions are available in easy-to-read displays, including split and intermediate times. Moreover, two separate times can be measured and displayed simultaneously. Another innovation: 2 semi-circular counters either display a perpetual "retrograde" calendar in the watch mode (meaning there is no need to change the date until 2099) or an exclusive 1/100 of a second accuracy in Chronograph mode.

Other iconic LINK features include: solid steel folding clasp with folding buckle; curved scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflection; specially treated glass to optimize readability; hand-applied curved and faceted indexes; and water resistance to 200 meters. The Calibre S was first introduced in March 2007 on the Aquaracer with a special "Regatta" function as a result of the brand's collaboration with the China Team challenger for the 32 America's Cup . With the Link Calibre S, the movement goes one step further, providing 1/100 of a second chronograph accuracy and readability, encased in the most elegant sport inspired style on the luxury watch market.


LINK CALIBRE 5 DAY-DATE

Men seeking the highest expression of LINK prestige can opt for the TAG Heuer exclusive Calibre 5 Day-Date , a stylishly appealing new automatic watch with a hand-applied date window at 6 o'clock and oversized day window at 12 o'clock . A new benchmark in upscale design for the iconic LINK series, this timepiece features all the famous LINK attributes and sports a striking black and silver dial. Available in steel or steel & gold, its bracelet is an elegant, high-luxury version of the LINK's celebrated S-shaped classic.


LINK CALIBRE 5

The LINK Calibre 5 is the new LINK automatic watch in the prestige series, with TAG Heuer's exclusive, self-winding Calibre 5 movement under the hood, a diamond-angled date window at 6 o'clock, and the iconic LINK features throughout, including the classic screw-fitting caseback in sapphire crystal. Combining sport with elegance, the distinctive Calibre 5 is available with 4 dial colors: black, silver, brown and blue.


LINK CALIBRE 16 AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH TACHYMETRE

For racing-lore enthusiasts and luxury watch collectors, the all-new LINK Calibre 16 Automatic Chronograph Tachymetre for men is a must-have. Loaded with high-end refinement and all the iconic LINK features, it is especially noteworthy for the sporty tachometer scale on its fixed bezel. A new classic, available with black, silver, anthracite or blue dial, this elegant new member of the LINK family is sure to become very soon a coveted collectible.

Superlative new features for 2007 include a curved, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective double-sided treatment on the glass for optimum readability; and a solid-steel folding clasp with folding buckle.


TIMELESS LINK

Masterpieces of the Swiss Avant Garde for 20 years…The Saga continues.

Elegant, innovative, and an incomparable pleasure to wear , uniquely combining performance, comfort, and classic TAG Heuer style, the newly relaunched LINK Series are boldly contemporary, yet remain faithful to the unique legacy of values inherent to the original.

More an evolution than a revolution, these new editions are as timeless as their illustrious predecessors, and as high-performance as Tiger Woods and Uma Thurman , the prestigious ambassadors who wear them.

The instantly recognizable S-shaped links, the perfect ergonomic fit, the luxury refinements - the LINK Series, like the new booth at Baselworld that celebrates their 20 year in TAG Heuer's catalogue, exemplifies the Swiss watchmaking legend's essential values of power and beauty, Avant-Garde and elegance, sporting prowess and prestige with a twist of audacity and daring!

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