TAG Heuer, one of the first names that come to mind among the motorsport-related brands, is under the spotlight with Carrera Heuer 02 Ayrton Senna Edition, one of its recent models designed in memory of the legendary 02 Ayrton Senna.
Perhaps one of the most important characteristics of TAG Heuer is the brand’s close relationship with motorsports throughout its life. This relationship, which began in the Heuer era, continued to exist and survive when the brand was acquired by TAG (Techniques d’Avant Garde). Thanks to the history of the brand, which is shaped on the challenging tracks of Formula 1, today, many motorsports enthusiasts and watch aficionados continue to enjoy the legendary timepieces by TAG Heuer.
The model we chose for review today is a recent example of the series for the legendary Formula One driver Ayrton Senna, who also served as the brand’s ambassador. Let take a close look at the model designed for the talented pilot who deeply saddened the entire motorsports community by passing away due to an accident at a young age.
For the model, Carrera Heuer 02, one of the current platforms of the brand, was preferred. The case, which provides a successful starting point for a sports-chronograph with its 43mm diameter, is equipped with various model-specific updates. The front face of the case is covered with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal as well as a matt black ceramic bezel with Senna written in red letters that fit with the model’s sporty character in terms of both material and design. Designed to withstand 100 meters / 10 bar water pressure, the case is accompanied by a transparent case back with Senna embroidery and logo. TAG Heuer signed winding crown and chronograph pushers differentiated by black and red O-rings offer a bold and sporty look.
I cannot imagine a non-perforated dial for a model that is exclusively designed for such an important name regarding the world of motorsports. The dial, which hosts red accented hands and chronograph counters, highlights the sporty theme of the model with the blackened components of the case designed in line with the overall concept. The large Arabic minute markers complement the concept with a double-digit design resembling sports car gauges.
The model is powered by the fully manufactured Caliber Heuer 02. The self-winding movement, which features a column-wheel vertical clutch Tri-Compax chronograph as well as a date display function, beats at a frequency of 4Hz (28,800vph) and offers up to 75 hours of power reserve when fully wound.
TAG Heuer Carrera Heuer 02 Ayrton Senna Edition is accompanied by a metal bracelet inspired by the cult Link Collection. The bracelet is secured by a TAG Heuer signed push-button folding clasp.
