The new limited-edition TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana captures the rich history of both TAG Heuer and Porsche.
Speed, heritage, precision, and the relentless pursuit of excellence – all of these qualities are things the average modern gent can appreciate. They’re also all synonymous with watchmaker TAG Heuer, auto marque Porsche and the challenging Carrera Panamericana race, the 70th anniversary of the Porsche 550 Spyder‘s victory (the brand came in first and second) in which inspired a seductive new watch, limited to 255 pieces.
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For those that might not know, the Carrera Panamericana, known for its perilous yet thrilling course, has been a legendary cross-country rally in the motorsport universe since its inception in 1950. Spanning over 3,000 kilometres from the northern to the southern borders of Mexico, it quickly earned a reputation for pushing both drivers and their machines to their absolute limits. A gruelling test of speed, endurance, and skill, its competitors raced across the harsh terrains of Mexico’s interior at an average speed exceeding 150 km/ph, eventually leading to its cancellation after only five editions due to safety concerns. The race recommenced in 1988 and continues today.
In 1954, the Porsche 550 Spyder, driven by Hans Herrmann, clinched a class victory in this daunting race, and the model, with its sleek design and advanced double overhead-cam engine, became an icon of automotive innovation and performance while the race inspired Jack Heuer to launch the first Carrera, named for the race, in 1963.
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The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana’s design draws direct inspiration from the iconic Porsche 550 Spyder racecar. The skeleton dial, with its elaborate details, mirrors the wheels of the 550 Spyder, while the colour scheme – silver, yellow, and black – is directly drawn from the original vehicle’s livery. The yellow lacquered hand and subdial hands represent an added distinctive sporting touch.
The shimmery effect on the dial plate and subdials evokes the 550 Spyder’s bodywork, and the grained effect on the skeleton dial – whose shape is inspired by the 550’s racing wheels – symbolises the asphalt texture of the road, adding a sporty and racing touch. Through the dial, the snail-brushed movement plate finish is visible, marrying technical savoir-faire with timekeeping beauty.
The 42mm watch’s construction features a stainless steel case with fine-brushed and polished alternating finishes, and an engraved “Spyder” logo on the side, resonant of the original font used by Porsche in the 1950s. The curved flange is adorned with the Porsche logo, and the “Panamericana” marking at six o’clock on the dial is a hint to the legendary race.
The timepiece boasts a domed sapphire Glassbox crystal paying homage to similarly domed hesalite crystal designs from the 1970s. Reengineered to have a curve that flows seamlessly over the flange, it runs along the edge of the dial, blending into the case. This innovative design offers an easy reading of the indications on the dial, perfect for any racer on the most demanding roads.
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Powered by the TH20-09 in-house tourbillon movement, which offers a 65-hour power reserve for ultimate precision, the new addition is presented on a black perforated calfskin leather strap, with a yellow lining and stitching, and in a lacquered wood box in black with yellow Panton personalisation.
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