A remix for the new generation of thrill seekers.
When the name TAG Heuer comes up, key words like “Formula 1” and “rugged functionality” follow. Through the years, TAG Heuer could always be relied on for tough watches that the everyday man could relate, especially with respects to its sticker price. These were watches that can withstand pretty much any drop or shock. More importantly, it wasn’t too showy or pretentious.
The man toting a TAG Heuer is telling the world that he’s a guy who is keeping it real and sensible for the most part, except for his penchant for the fast and furious. And the latest Autavia collection is keeping up with his latest exploits and adventures. Oh by the way, TAG in TAG Heuer stands for Techniques d’Avant Garde.
After a hiatus of over 3 decades, the Autavia is back not just as the racing man’s watch but complete as a standalone collection of 7 models that boast the same ruggedness and versatility that underpins its Formula 1 racing lineage. Since the 1960s, Autavia fans included big racing names like Jochen Rindt, Jo Siffert, Derek Bell, Mario Andretti and Gilles Villeneuve.
What started out as a dashboard clock for the automotive and aviation industry (hence its hybrid name that borrows from these two words), has now evolved into a lineup that houses its latest Isograph Calibre 5 movement with three-hand models that take visual inspiration from the originals. While this collection does not include a chronograph, the watchmaker is touting its freshly debuted carbon-composite hairspring that keeps the Autavia timepieces shock proof and antimagnetic.
The new Autavia boasts a bigger stainless steel case measuring 42mm with bevelled lugs and a bidirectional rotating bezel that pay tribute to the originals. All casebacks are engraved with a tire and aeroplane propeller to emphasise its application in both automotive and aviation. With vintage-inspired watches in vogue these days, its extra-large crown and leather straps reminiscent of old-fashioned aviator watches and clocks, are right on trend. With bronze cases being the latest trend, there are also 2 dial versions in smoked green or brown.
Images courtesy of TAG Heuer, additional artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
