TAG Heuer unveils the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana
Author: Kantinan Srisan | Photographer: Courtesy of TAG Heuer
Nov 04, 2024
“…It’s widely recognised that TAG Heuer holds a longstanding heritage intertwined with the world of automotive excellence, particularly with Porsche. The two brands have shared a storied partnership, embarking on collaborative projects over the years. Now, TAG Heuer presents its latest masterpiece, the ‘TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana’ collection, a creation that masterfully embodies the elevated artistry of design and engineering, celebrating the remarkable 70th anniversary of Porsche’s legendary success in the world of motorsport…”
Since 1950, the Carrera Panamericana has been revered globally as one of the most challenging endurance races, stretching across more than 3,000 kilometres through Mexico’s diverse terrain. This historic competition has become a testament to the stamina and skill of both drivers and their cars. In 1954, Porsche’s exceptional 550 Spyder, driven by Hans Herrmann, seized victory, an achievement that firmly etched Porsche’s name into the annals of endurance racing. This exclusive edition, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana, was meticulously crafted to honour that legacy.
With an aim to celebrate the profound history and solid alliance between TAG Heuer and Porsche, this special model draws direct design inspiration from the Porsche 550 Spyder. Notable design elements include a skeleton dial that reveals the intricate workings of the mechanism, mimicking the wheel construction of the 550 Spyder. The watch features a colour palette of silver, yellow, and black, the signature hues of the iconic Porsche model that inspired this design. A standout feature includes the striking yellow-coated main and subdial hands, adding a bold, unmatched visual impact.
Moreover, the gleaming accents on both the main and subdials echo the charm of the Porsche 550 Spyder’s engine components, creating a compelling allure. The grained effect on the exposed dial surface is inspired by the wheel textures of the 550 race car, while the visible snail-brushed mechanics are a harmonious fusion of technical expertise and aesthetic finesse. The watch showcases a 42mm structure with refined detailing along the case’s side, etched with the original “Spyder” logo font used by Porsche in the 1950s. The curved bezel is finished with the Porsche logo, and the “Panamericana” emblem graces the six o’clock position on the dial.
Adding to the allure, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana boasts a sapphire crystal Glassbox dome, a homage to the Hesalite crystal dome design prevalent in the 1970s. This modern reinterpretation achieves a fluid curvature that seamlessly integrates with the case edge, enhancing visibility and usability for drivers at a glance.
When it comes to the mechanics and performance, this exclusive model is as captivating in function as it is in form. Powering this exceptional timepiece is TAG Heuer’s in-house TH20-09 Tourbillon movement, which offers an impressive 65-hour power reserve. The design also incorporates the signature Porsche steering wheel-inspired rotor, a defining element in every TAG Heuer x Porsche collaboration, underscoring the elite, limited-edition status of this exceptional creation.
This limited-edition marvel is produced in just 255 pieces worldwide. Each timepiece is numbered and engraved with “LIMITED EDITION,” further accentuating the unique value of each watch. Presented in a luxurious, high-gloss black wooden box with accents in the same Pantone yellow as the watch itself, the packaging adds a strikingly refined touch to this remarkable design.
