Borna Bosnjak
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TAG Heuer introduced a facelifted Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon with new box-dome crystalColours are inspired by the piece’s racing heritage and fit into the new Chronograph 42mm line-up as wellNew and reduced 42mm size for a Carrera Chronograph TourbillonAs part of the 60th anniversary of the iconic Carrera model, TAG Heuer is launching two distinct models to serve as the main celebratory pieces for the occasion. The first are two Chronograph models that we’ve got hands-on coverage with here, and the second is this, the Carrera Tourbillon Glassbox. Sizing down from the 44mm diameters of the existing tourbillon-equipped Carrera models, the new 42mm case size and seamlessly integrated box-domed sapphire crystal offer a distinctly clean aesthetic.The subtle touches are present throughout – take the circularly grained dial, for example. The curved brushstrokes give just the right amount of texture, making the polished surrounds of the sub-dials and the tourbillon aperture stand out that much more. The outer minute track and rehaut have been modified to suit the new Glassbox style, domed and curved to give the appearance of extra depth.Not only does it give the watch more of a vintage vibe, it also increases the legibility of the minute track, as it’s visible from more acute angles. The 42mm case features alternating brushed and polished finishes highlighting the signature lines of the Carrera case, including the polished chronograph pushers and sharp lugs. An unguarded push-pull crown completes the retro look, though it doesn’t compromise on water resistance, with the Carrera Tourbillon Glassbox rated at 100 metres. Finally, a blue calfskin strap with tonal stitching keeps the looks subtle, letting the dial features do the talking.At first glance, the movement situation may be unfamiliar to some. This monochromatic finish of the TH20-09 COSC is not what we’ve come to expect from a tourbillon-equipped Carrera, and the new nomenclature would suggest a new movement. A closer look at the jewel count and movement layout such as the location of the crown wheel and column wheel reveals a revised finish of the previous Heuer 02T calibre. It’s worth noting, however, that the TH20-09 has been upgraded with bi-directional winding, something missing from its predecessor, though the 28,800 vph beat rate and 65-hour power reserve remain unchanged. Rather than the blacked-out aesthetic found in the Heuer 02T, the TH20-09 is a greyscale of contemporary finishing, which is in line with the new TAG Heuer movement aesthetic we’ve seen from other releases.TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Glassbox pricing and availability:The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Glassbox will be available in May 2023. Price: A$34,850BrandTAG HeuerModelCarrera Chronograph Tourbillon GlassboxReference NumberCBS5010.FC6543Case Dimensions42mm (D)Case MaterialStainless steelWater Resistance100 metresDialCircularly brushed blueCrystal(s)Box-domed sapphire front and sapphire casebackStrapBlue calfskin with stainless steel claspMovementTH20-09 COSC, in-house, tourbillon, column wheel chronographPower Reserve65 hoursFunctionsTourbillon, chronograph, hours, minutesAvailabilityMay 2023PriceA$34,850
10.04.23