Carole Forestier Kasapi of TAG Heuer – interview
Recently, while attending Watches & Wonders, Angus Davies met Carole Forestier Kasapi of TAG Heuer. The Haute Horlogerie & Movements Strategy Director and award-winning watchmaker, Forestier Kasapi is held in the highest esteem. In this feature, Angus asks the movement specialist a series of questions about her role and TAG Heuer’s continued pursuit of advancement.
TAG Heuer – perpetually innovative
Founded in 1860, Heuer has always been a horological pioneer. Indeed, the company conceived a patented ‘crown operated, keyless winding system’ (1869) and a patented mechanism to ‘improve the oscillating pinion’ (1887). The brand is considered a specialist in the manufacture of stopwatches and chronographs, having created numerous high precision instruments capable of measuring slivers of seconds with remarkable precision. Its products have witnessed history, capturing record speeds, and the firm has continued to keep pace with new technologies.
Image – US Patent for Heuer stopwatch (1888)
The Swiss avant-garde marque has not just been technically inventive, it has also been at the vanguard of design. For instance, the Carrera of 1963 reimagined the steel tension ring securing the crystal, marking it with a ⅕-second scale, thereby freeing up space on the dial. While this idea was not the product of new technology, it demonstrated remarkable creativity for the benefit of wearers.
Image – Heuer Monaco Reference 1133 (1969)
Interestingly, back in 1969, Heuer was party to the creation of the first self-winding chronograph movement, the Calibre 11. Mindful it was a groundbreaking example of micro-engineering, Heuer sought a radical housing for its masterpiece. Although square watches already existed, the Heuer Monaco was the first watch with a water-resistant square case. The Monaco chronograph, with its two register layout, angled pushers and a crown hugging the left flank of the case, was boldly styled and a worthy companion for the avant-garde movement.
Throughout its history, now spanning 166 years and counting, there have been many technical and aesthetic achievements as well as much commercial success. However, while the brand has stood on the podium many times, it has never rested on its laurels.
TAG Heuer Solargraph and TH-Carbonspring
In 2025, TAG Heuer unveiled new versions of its Formula 1 model. The styling echoes the appearance of the now-iconic, brightly-hued creations of the 80s. However, these latest models are equipped with new, state of the art Solargraph movements, harnessing sunlight and artificial light to power the indications.
Image – TAG Heuer Formula 1 with Solargraph movement
Another innovation unveiled last year was TH-Carbonspring. Conventional balance springs are made from nickel-steel alloy. Back in the early 2000s, several watch brands came together and developed silicium balance springs. This glass-like material is non-magnetic, not liable to corrode, uniform and can be formed into intricate shapes. The silicium technology is patented, restricting its use to a handful of brands/groups. In response, TAG Heuer has conceived its own proprietary technology that is very different to silicium, but confers the same benefits. In addition, when contrasted with silicium, the TH-Carbonspring is less prone to damage, a useful attribute when servicing or repairing a watch.
Image – TH-Carbonspring
Watches & Wonders 2026
At Watches & Wonders, the annual watch fair based in Geneva, TAG Heuer once again pushed the performance envelope, unveiling three new expressions of its legendary Monaco. Each is equipped with the Calibre TH20-11, an integrated chronograph movement featuring a column wheel and vertical coupling.
Image – New TAG Heuer Monaco models featuring the Calibre TH20-11
However, the headline act at Watches & Wonders 2026 was unquestionably the Monaco Evergraph, a watch that breaks new ground in the world of horology. This watch eschews many conventional chronograph parts, instead favouring a compliant mechanism employing flexible components. In the coming weeks, I will discuss this model at length; however, I can already report the pushpieces operate with a level of smoothness I have never experienced before, even on watches with six-figure pricing.
Image – TAG Heuer Monaco Evergraph
Carole Forestier Kasapi of TAG Heuer – background
While attending the annual fair, I was invited to meet Carole Forestier Kasapi of TAG Heuer. At this point, I must explain that I already knew of Ms Forestier Kasapi by reputation. Her early career included working at Renaud & Papi (1993). The Le Locle based atelier was a hotbed of talent around this time with Stephen Forsey, Bart Grönefeld, Peter Speak and Andreas Strehler all rubbing shoulders with one another.
Later, Forestier Kasapi worked at Ulysse Nardin and Richemont (Vendôme Luxury Group). While working for Richemont, Forestier Kasapi was appointed Director of Movement Creation for Cartier, a role that led to greater prominence within the industry. Furthermore, in 2012, she was awarded ‘Best Watchmaker Prize’ at Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). In 2020, Forestier Kasapi was appointed Movements Director at TAG Heuer and the following year was presented with a Gaïa Prize for Craftsmanship-Creation (2021), awarded by the Musée International d’Horlogerie (MIH).
Carole Forestier Kasapi of TAG Heuer – Q&A
Angus Davies (AD): Can you state your title and your role at TAG Heuer?
Carole Forestier Kasapi (CFK): I am Haute Horlogerie & Movements Strategy Director at TAG Heuer. My role is to guide the development of our movements, from the earliest research phases to their industrialisation, and to ensure that our technical choices remain consistent with the identity of the brand. It involves working very closely with our engineers, watchmakers and product teams to define what we develop and also why we develop it.
AD: Can you tell me a little bit about your background?
CFK: I grew up in an environment where watchmaking was already present, so it was something very concrete for me from an early age rather than an abstract idea. That exposure naturally developed into a curiosity and then into a real passion, which led me to pursue formal training in watchmaking in order to better understand the mechanics behind it. Over the years, I have worked on a variety of movement developments, particularly in the field of high complications such as tourbillons, where precision, reliability and long-term performance are essential. These experiences taught me a great deal about patience and about the importance of iteration, because in watchmaking progress rarely comes immediately. What continues to motivate me is this constant balance between theory and practice, understanding how a system works in detail, but also how it behaves over time, which is ultimately what defines the quality of a movement.
AD: What makes TAG Heuer special?
CFK: It is a Maison with a powerful clarity of purpose. There is a strong focus on performance, on precision and on creating watches that are meant to be used. Chronographs are a very good example of this. They are part of the brand’s identity. There is also a real willingness to explore new solutions, whether in materials or in movement architecture, while staying connected to that core DNA.
Image – TAG Heuer Carrera Split Seconds Chronograph
AD: TAG Heuer (formerly Heuer) has always been known for producing chronographs ever since it patented an improvement to the oscillating pinion. However, it’s my belief that technically, your movements are the best they’ve ever been. How do you see chronographs evolving in the future?
CFK: Chronographs will continue to evolve in terms of usability and reliability. Historically, a lot of development has focused on improving precision and reducing friction, but there is still room to simplify certain mechanisms and to make them more stable over time. I also think the interaction with the chronograph will remain very important. The way the pusher feels, the consistency of the actuation – these are aspects that directly affect the experience. We are also seeing new approaches to movement architecture which allow us to rethink how the chronograph is constructed. It is an evolution that happens step by step, but it is very much ongoing.
Image – TAG Heuer Monaco Evergraph featuring the Calibre TH80-00
AD: Following on from my last question, I note that many of today’s movements feature enhanced finishing. Would you agree? And, if so, how far could you envisage taking this? For instance, could you ever see TAG Heuer hand-bevelling bridges or mirror-polishing components?
CFK: Finishing is an important aspect, but it always needs to be consistent with the positioning of the watch and the intention behind the product. There is a long tradition of very high-end finishing techniques, such as hand-bevelling or mirror polishing, and they have their place in watchmaking. At TAG Heuer, we focus on achieving a level of finishing that supports the overall quality and coherence of the watch. The key is to ensure that it makes sense within the product. That said, there is always room to refine and improve, and it is something we continue to work on.
Image – TAG Heuer Calibre TH81-01
AD: I perceive that you and TAG Heuer are continuously looking forward, seeking product advancement. Could you imagine reinterpreting a chronograph from say the 50s or 60s and equipping it with a present-day movement executed in a vintage style? Or perhaps with a hand-wound movement?
CFK: Yes, it is something that can be interesting, but it requires a very careful approach. When you reinterpret a historical piece, it is important to understand what made it relevant at the time. Integrating a modern movement can bring clear benefits in terms of performance and reliability, but it should not alter the character of the watch. A hand-wound movement, for example, could make sense in certain contexts, especially if it contributes to the overall experience. The key is always coherence between the technical solution and the design intention.
Image – TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Seafarer
AD: A couple of years ago, TAG Heuer created a split-seconds chronograph for Only Watch. The Maison has since produced further split-seconds chronographs. This complication is technically very ambitious and, to be honest, at the time I never imagined TAG Heuer creating such a watch. To date, you have produced two high complications to my knowledge: a tourbillon and a split-seconds chronograph. Could you envisage creating a perpetual calendar and/or a minute repeater in the future? Possibly working with a partner?
CFK: These types of complications are always technically interesting and they represent a different area of watchmaking. At TAG Heuer, our focus has historically been on chronographs and performance-related complications. That said, there are many possibilities in watchmaking and collaborations can sometimes be a way to explore new territories. What is important is that any development remains meaningful for the brand. It needs to have a clear purpose and a strong connection with our identity.
Image – TAG Heuer Monaco Split Seconds Chronograph
AD: In terms of partnerships, TAG Heuer has its own impressive Manufacture in Chevenez, specialising in making movements. However, the company has also worked with partners to create interesting calibres. Are you likely to work with more external parties in the future?
CFK: Partnerships can be very valuable, especially when they bring complementary expertise. We have strong capabilities in-house, but collaboration allows us to explore solutions more efficiently in certain cases. It is not a systematic approach, but it remains an option when it makes sense for the project. The objective is always to achieve the best possible result.
Image – TAG Heuer movement Manufacture in Chevenez
AD: The watch industry has witnessed many changes in terms of materials, both for cases and movement components. What new materials do you think will be employed in the future?
CFK: Materials will continue to play a major role in the evolution of watchmaking. We are already seeing interesting developments with composites, silicon and advanced alloys. These materials allow us to improve resistance to magnetism, reduce wear and enhance overall stability. In the future, I think we will see more combinations of materials, where each one is used for its specific properties. It is a field that offers many possibilities, but it also requires a very good understanding of long-term behaviour.
Image – case forged from grade 5 titanium via Selective Laser Melting
AD: Looking around a modern Manufacture, we now see widespread use of CAD systems with the capacity to look at the forces acting on movement components, multi-axis CNC machines working to infinitesimal tolerances, wire erosion machines, bar-turning machines, etc. What technologies do you envisage the watch industry using in the future and why?
CFK: The use of simulation tools and advanced manufacturing technologies will continue to expand. CAD systems already allow us to analyse forces and optimise components before production, which is very valuable. Manufacturing technologies such as multi-axis machining or additive processes also open new possibilities in terms of geometry and precision. These tools help us push the limits of what can be achieved, but they do not replace the need for watchmaking expertise. They are part of a broader evolution where technology supports craftsmanship.
Image – milling a movement using a CNC machine
AD: When I look at the Carrera Glassbox 39 mm and consider its movement, the Calibre TH20-00, I can see that it has a column-wheel, vertical coupling, power-reserve of 80 hours and some very agreeable finishing. Where do you go from there?
CFK: There is always room for progress. Even when a movement reaches a high level of performance, we can continue to refine its efficiency, its durability and its behaviour over time. Sometimes the improvements are not visible, but they are important for the user. We can also explore new architectures or new materials to address specific challenges. Progress in watchmaking is often incremental, but it is continuous.
Image – Calibre TH 20-00
AD: The brand has come a long way over the years. Is the overriding quest always advancement or do you occasionally have a rest?
CFK: There are moments where you consolidate what has been developed, to ensure that everything is fully mastered and reliable. But in general, the process does not really stop. There is always a new question, a new idea or a new challenge to explore. Advancement is part of the nature of watchmaking. It is not something that is pursued for its own sake, but it comes naturally from the desire to improve what we do.
Closing remarks
As an ardent horophile, I yearned to be a watchmaker for several years but eventually came to the realisation that I lacked the necessary fine motor skills and patience to accomplish my dreams. Perhaps it’s my inability to tighten a screw without chewing its slot or butchering its thread that has led to my admiration for the finest exponents of watchmaking. Indeed, my heroes don’t kick a football nor do they grace the silver screen, they sit at a bench and deftly manipulate tools, creating glorious pieces of ticking joy.
When I met Carole Forestier Kasapi, I played it cool, masking my reverence for her professional achievements and body of work. She is remarkably skilled and leads a team of talented individuals, all united in their shared desire for advancement. In her present role, Forestier Kasapi runs the Swiss brand’s Haute Horlogerie and movement team with great success, perpetuating the brand’s spirit of innovation for future generations.