[82 points] TAG Heuer / TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph

The TAG Heuer Formula 1 collection has been part of the TAG Heuer watch collection since 1986. Over the years, TAG Heuer has changed its appearance several times, but it has always been an important part of the collection as an entry-level model. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 is a watch that conveys values ​​such as a carefree attitude towards life, playfulness and, later, urban cool.

Sporty and dynamic

　In recent years, TAG Heuer has repeatedly revamped the design of the TAG Heuer Formula 1. As a result, the design of the various existing Formula 1 automatic chronograph models has changed in a wide range of ways. Some models have larger or smaller tachymeter scale numbers, some have long or round pushers, and the edges around the subdials have become thicker or thinner.

　However, the new model announced in early 2025 could be seen as the final evolution of this model, with a more compact case and a departure from the similarly round Tag Heuer Carrera design.

　This impression is confirmed when you look at the data. TAG Heuer's designers reduced the overall length from lug to lug by 2mm, from 49.3mm to 47.3mm to be exact. The case thickness is also 0.5mm thinner, at 14.1mm. Meanwhile, the actual diameter of the titanium case is 44mm, the same size as its predecessor.

　If you look closely, you'll see that only the bezel and caseback of the new TAG Heuer Formula 1 are curved. It's housed in an almost tonneau-shaped case, characterized by curves, corners, and edges. That alone is enough to catch the eye. The lugs are only a short distance long and protrude slightly from the case. This allows the rubber strap to appear to extend seamlessly from the case, emphasizing its compact design. The spring bars that secure it to the holes on the sides are not visible from the front. This new case shape gives the TAG Heuer Formula 1 a more distinctive identity than ever before, clearly differentiating it from other round-case watches, such as the TAG Heuer Carrera.

　The revised design gives the TAG Heuer Formula 1 an even sportier look than before. The pushers are now elongated again, a feature last seen on the 13 model. However, despite the same pusher shape, the new 25 model looks quite different.

　The pushers are designed to fit into the facets on either side of the crown. This treatment of the case shape is clearly different from the round pushers used in recent models. Furthermore, the pushers feature sharp facets that blend in with the smooth edges of the case.

Effective accent colors

　Overall, individual elements are more clearly emphasized. For example, the tachymeter scale now features prominent, easy-to-read numerals, as opposed to the more subdued design of its predecessor. The subdials are more vibrantly colored than those on the '24 model. The hour and minute hands are polished and silver-gray rhodium-plated. All three hands indicating the chronograph function are the same color—red in our test watch. The same color is also used for the dots in the dial ring, the small brand logo on the bezel, the crown, and the colored bezel beneath the brake disc-like bezel.

　The red TAG Heuer Formula 1 is likely to have a particularly dynamic effect due to its distinctive color. Blue and lime variations are also included in the lineup. Both models feature a titanium case with a black DLC coating, giving them a more subdued impression. There's also another red version with a black DLC case and a red rubber strap, which is sure to delight racing fans.

Titanium case

　Previous TAG Heuer Formula 1 cases have been made of stainless steel, but this model uses titanium. Titanium is approximately 44% lighter than stainless steel, yet boasts approximately three times the strength per unit weight. It is a material commonly used in motorsports. This is most evident in its weight: at 111g (measured), this watch weighs approximately half the weight of the previous stainless steel model, which weighed approximately 200g. TAG Heuer used pure grade 2 titanium for the TAG Heuer Formula 1 case. This is an anomaly in watchmaking; most manufacturers use the alloy grade 5 titanium. This alloy, which contains aluminum and vanadium, is nearly twice as hard as grade 2 titanium. Grade 2 titanium, on the other hand, is over 99% pure and has even greater corrosion resistance.

　In terms of price, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 is currently TAG Heuer's entry-level model, starting at 704,000 yen. However, this watch is not only well-designed, but also features many high-quality details. For example, the applied hour markers, when viewed under a magnifying glass, resemble those found on F1 cars. The faceted and polished surface of these hour markers creates an appealing reflection of light. The same goes for the hour and minute hands.

A proven movement

　TAG Heuer has chosen a proven, off-the-shelf movement for this watch. The TAG Heuer Formula 1's automatic chronograph movement is the Caliber 16, continuing from its predecessor. Previously, it was based on the ETA 7750. However, it is now based on the Sellita SW500, which has the same design and dimensions. It is powered exclusively by the in-house movement, Caliber TH20-00, and is clearly distinct from the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph.

　This reliable movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 42 hours, and its precision has been expertly tuned by TAG Heuer, as evidenced by the watch's timegrapher. Measurements in six positions revealed a maximum deviation of six seconds. The average daily deviation was excellent (+2 seconds) when the chronograph was not running, but decreased by 2 seconds when the chronograph was running. A slight deviation was observed when the watch was worn on the wrist.

　The calendar starts just after 10:30 PM and jumps a little early at 11:55 PM, which is within acceptable limits. Perhaps because it's not an in-house movement, TAG Heuer has chosen a solid screw-down case back. This means the movement's rotor is not visible, but rather a stylish marking with an embossed checkered flag pattern can be seen on the case back. Its shape resembles a rotor. The screw-down case back is also a factor in ensuring the watch is water resistant to 200 meters.

　In summary, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 now looks sportier and, above all, more dynamic than ever. After various design changes over the past few years, the watch has finally been given a new design it deserves. It stands alone and doesn't overlap with other models. And the price has increased. The new titanium model starts at ¥704,000, up from ¥566,500 for the stainless steel model. Not only does it use a premium, difficult-to-process material, but the eye-catching design and refined details certainly justify the price increase.

Specifications of the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph

Plus points, minus points

+point
- Powerful new design reminiscent of motorsports
- Comfortable material for a comfortable fit
・優れた視認性
- Visual separation of time display and chronograph function

-point
The power reserve is not long

Technical specifications

*Prices are current at the time of publication. This article is a translation of the German version of Kronos.

Accuracy stability test

Evaluation