TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm
Angus Davies recently wore a limited edition TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm, created to mark the official partnership of the Swiss horology brand, TAG Heuer and ORACLE TEAM USA.
This detailed review of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm includes live images and specification details.
Few sporting comebacks have resulted in so many column inches of newsprint, or excited discussion on television screens, as the recent victory of the ORACLE TEAM USA, winner of the 34th America’s Cup.
After looking defeat straight in the eye, losing 8-1 in the best-of-17 regatta, the American team made a remarkable recovery, winning eight back-to-back races and securing victory. The resolve of the team is an object lesson in perseverance and determination, despite looming failure.
Creating a watch requires similar traits. From the seed of an idea, through the process of conceptualisation and ultimately the realisation of a new model, the process is not for the timid, requiring tenacity and resolve.
In recent months, TAG Heuer revealed a limited edition model, created to celebrate its partnership with ORACLE TEAM USA. The TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm shares much in common with the standard variant bearing the same name. However, there are some small details which denote it as special and distinguish it as a fitting tribute to the recent sailing success in San Francisco Bay.
Standard model – ref CAK211A.BA0833
The dial
The Open-worked, sword-shaped, hour and minute hands have luminous tips, ensuring good visibility whether above or below the waves.
A subsidiary seconds display features at 3 o’clock. A white hand with a triangular tip imparts information against a snailed background. Located opposite, a 30-minute chronograph counter resides, sharing near identical aesthetics save for a red hand, affording symmetry and balance to the dial.
A slender red central chronograph hand completes the array of stop watch information provided.
The date indication is located below noon. Adjacent 6 o’clock, a Team USA logo is presented on a cartouche, together with the words “34th America’s Cup”
This watch features a countdown function, designed for synchronising the optimum positioning of the boat at the time of the regatta. Five apertures, each displaying one of three colours, red, white or blue, denote 5, 10 and 15 minute intervals prior to crossing the start line. Whilst the majority of wearers are unlikely to use the function for its intended purpose, it does provide a useful complication for timing alternative events.
The dial of theAquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm is presented in black with an attractive motif of horizontal lines running across its surface. They do not distract or confuse, but enhance the appearance of the watch.
A chapter ring featuring short white strokes proves helpful when reading off elapsed seconds or parts thereof.
The case
The case diameter is 43 mm and constructed of brushed stainless steel. Adjacent 10 o’clock is a helium valve, making it suitable for professional diving use. Moreover, with a water resistance of 500 metres the watch lends itself to use by water loving wearers.
The fixed bezel is marked with a combination of indices and Arabic numerals. Unlike the standard Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph, the bezel is marked “Countdown” in the range, 0-10 minutes.
The bezel is made of “scratchless” ceramic and, unlike older timepieces, should not be adversely effected by sunlight. The unyielding appearance of the watch is reinforced with the inclusion of rubber coated pushers and a screwed-in crown.
Typical of many diver’s watches, the timepiece is fitted with a solid caseback. However, whereas the standard model has a depiction of a sailor’s winch and rope, this limited edition model offers a bespoke engraving. It features a unique depiction of the race-winning 72 feet-long catamaran on its reverse.
Standard model – ref CAK211A.BA0833
Limited edition model – ref CAK211B.FT8019
Purchasers of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm can select the model with either a stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap fitted with stainless steel pin buckle. I must admit, I particularly liked the appearance of the rubber strap and found it very comfortable to wear.
The movement
The Calibre 72 is a “Swiss Made”, self-winding movement. Whilst it is hidden from view, the brand has not short changed the would-be buyer providing a brushed and engraved oscillating weight and an impressive 51 rubies.
An exacting testing regime
Recently, whilst touring the TAG Heuer factory in La Chaux-de-Fonds, I witnessed first-hand the exacting testing regime to which the brand subjects its products. It was deeply impressive seeing luxurious timepieces subjected to the most arduous of scenarios.
Watches tested for water resistance using Roxer machine
Watches tested for thermal shock
Straps are repeatedly twisted and stretched to simulate wear. Cases containing movements are exposed to high pressures and moisture to ensure specified water resistance is met. Watches are subject to extreme impacts to confirm resilience to abuse. There is even a test to simulate the adverse effects of placing a watch within a lady’s handbag containing the various items which may scratch or dent the cherished timepiece.
Conclusion
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43mm, is a worthy tribute for a sporting success story that will be recounted for years to come. It will no doubt find favour with many watch collectors of American nationality, particularly those who, justifiably, feel a sense of pride in the achievement of their compatriots.
Nevertheless, the watch should also appeal to those who seek a robust and stylish timepiece with obtainable pricing, irrespective of their place of birth.
Most of all, with the watch evoking thoughts of the many virtues exampled by the ORACLE TEAM USA on their journey to success, it acts as a fitting tribute to the sea faring racers who won the 34th America’s Cup and a reminder to us all to never give up.
Technical Specification
- Model: TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M Calibre 72 Countdown Automatic Chronograph 43 mm
- Ref: CAK211B.FT8019
- Case: Stainless steel; diameter 43.00 mm; water resistant to 50 bar (500 metres); sapphire crystal to front and solid caseback.
- Functions: Hours; minutes; subsidiary seconds; date; chronograph; regatta countdown.
- Movement: Calibre 72, self-winding movement; frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz); 51 jewels; power reserve 40 hours
- Strap: Black rubber strap with stainless steel pin-buckle.
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