TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon Watch Review
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon celebrates the advent of a new Chinese Zodiac. Offered in a choice of steel or gold, this chronograph may well appeal not just to Chinese collectors, but also to many horophiles who simply appreciate a handsome dial and an impressive movement.
Chinese watch market
According to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, in October 2023, the exports of timepieces to China totalled CHF 2,563.8 million making it the second-largest market for watches. Hong Kong was the third largest market, totalling CHF 1,908.5 million. Considering the financial importance of these markets, it is perhaps not surprising that the watch industry is very attentive to local desires and wants. Indeed, around this time every year, a number of Swiss Maisons unveil timepieces that celebrate the beginning of a new Chinese Zodiac.
Year of the Dragon
In Chinese culture, much importance is attached to the advent of a new year, marked with the celebration of particular animals. Moreover, the Chinese Zodiac celebrates these animals in a set order: Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig, Rat, Ox and Tiger. In 2023, TAG Heuer released a Carrera Chronograph honouring the Year of the Rabbit.
Adhering to the historic sequence, TAG Heuer has just unveiled the Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon.
The Dragon has particular significance in Chinese culture. It represents good fortune, power, wisdom and wealth. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon incorporates the liberal application of red hues, a colour that is widely linked with optimism.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon dial and case
The Swiss avant-garde brand offers the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon in two case variants: steel or 18K 5N rose gold. Having released a Carrera Chronograph last year in celebration of the Year of the Rabbit, one may have expected TAG Heuer to select an alternative model such as an Aquaracer or Monaco. However, just in case you’ve forgotten, 2023 is the 60th anniversary of the Carrera Chronograph, so to select any other model would be heresy in watch collecting circles.
While the Chinese-themed timepiece is, once again, a Carrera Chronograph, it is very different to last year’s celebratory piece. This year’s release is slightly more formal and a tad smaller, measuring just 42 mm in diameter. At first glance, the watch appears to have a bi-compax display, but a closer look reveals there is an understated small seconds indicator positioned above the date aperture. By adopting this approach, TAG Heuer has imbued the dial with near-perfect symmetry, conferring a sense of calm. Each counter is recessed and snailed. The dial epidermis is sunray brushed and the indexes and brand logo are applied, providing a charming play with depths. A minuterie is presented on the flange encircling the dial, aiding readability. All dial elements are located beneath the bevelled and domed sapphire crystal.
Heuer 02 automatic movement
The timepiece is equipped with the superb Calibre Heuer 02 automatic movement, visible via an exhibition caseback. This fully integrated chronograph movement, produced at the brand’s Chevenez facility, incorporates a column-wheel and vertical coupling. Having worn several watches equipped with this movement, I can attest it proffers a delightfully silky push-piece action. Moreover, once actuated, the chronograph seconds hand commences its journey without any hesitation or stuttering.
TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon – closing thoughts
TAG Heuer has employed a soft touch when celebrating the Year of the Dragon. There is a welcome absence of excessive symbolism or overbearing text. Indeed, a subtle Chinese Dragon symbol is printed on the dial and a depiction of a Chinese Dragon is applied to the sapphire crystal to the rear. Given the understated representation of the Chinese Dragon, I suspect this latest timepiece from TAG Heuer may well appeal not just to Chinese collectors but also to many horophiles who simply appreciate a beautiful dial and an impressive movement.
Further reading
Technical specifications
- Model: TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon
- Reference: CBN201H.FC6553 (steel edition)
- Case: diameter 42 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to front; exhibition caseback.
- Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Movement: Calibre Heuer 02, automatic movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz), power reserve 80 hours
- Strap: red alligator leather strap. Steel folding clasp with double safety push-buttons
- Price: £5,500 (RRP as of 27.11.2023)
- Limited Edition: 300 pieces
- Model: TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Year of the Dragon
- Reference: CBN2048.FC8323 (gold edition)
- Case: diameter 42 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to front; exhibition caseback.
- Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Movement: Calibre Heuer 02, automatic movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz), power reserve 80 hours
- Strap: red alligator leather strap. 18K 5N rose gold pin buckle.
- Price: £19,650 (RRP as of 27.11.2023)
- Limited Edition: 50 pieces
