TAG Heuer has unveiled the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna, a limited-edition timepiece that pays tribute to the legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna. This release coincides with the 30th anniversary of Senna’s passing, underscoring the enduring legacy of a driver whose name remains synonymous with speed, precision, and excellence.
The Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna’s 44mm case is crafted from Grade 2 titanium, offering both strength and lightness, essential qualities in both watchmaking and high-performance racing. The fixed bezel, made from forged carbon, features a tachymeter scale calibrated up to 400 km/h — a nod to the blistering speeds that defined Senna’s career. The bezel also prominently displays Senna’s iconic ‘S’ logo in vibrant yellow, a color that recurs throughout the watch’s design and has a strong relationship with the driver’s (and my own) home country.
The skeletonized dial reveals the intricate mechanics within, including the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, which serves as both a visual centerpiece and a demonstration of horological prowess. Accents of yellow, green, and blue adorn the dial, paying homage to Senna’s heritage and, of course, the Brazilian flag. The chronograph seconds hand is coated in vivid yellow, while the outer chapter ring features an inner minutes scale in royal blue and an outer seconds track in bright green. These vibrant hues not only enhance the watch’s aesthetic appeal but also symbolize the national pride that Senna carried with him throughout his career.
Powering this exceptional timepiece is TAG Heuer’s in-house Calibre TH20-09 automatic movement. This movement boasts a vertical clutch and column wheel chronograph actuation system, ensuring precise timekeeping and seamless operation. With a power reserve of 65 hours and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, it exemplifies the brand’s dedication to performance and reliability.
The caseback is equally noteworthy, featuring a sapphire crystal adorned with a graphic rendition of Senna’s visage, capturing the intensity and focus that made him a racing icon. This thoughtful detail serves as a constant reminder of the man who inspired this creation.
Complementing the watch is a blue rubber strap, designed with a pattern reminiscent of NACA ducts, commonly found in high-performance automotive engineering, and such a nice detail. This design not only enhances the strap’s aesthetic appeal but also ensures comfort and durability, aligning with the watch’s sporty character.
Limited to 500 pieces, the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna is priced at 37,000 Swiss Francs (around NZD 72,300). This exclusive release is a fitting homage to Ayrton Senna, celebrating his unparalleled contributions to motorsport and his enduring partnership with TAG Heuer. Senna’s relationship with TAG Heuer began in 1988 when he became a brand ambassador, and it has continued posthumously through collaborations with the Senna Foundation. This timepiece not only commemorates Senna’s legacy but also exemplifies the fusion of precision engineering and elegant design that both he and TAG Heuer represent.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna offers an opportunity to own a piece of history, blending cutting-edge watchmaking with the spirit of a true racing legend. Its design elements and technical specifications should make it stand out in any collection, and is a great way to celebrate that partnership and Senna’s legacy.
Pictures courtesy of TAG Heuer
