TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna CBU5081.FT6274
Overview:
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna CBU5081.FT6274 stands as a stunning tribute to the legendary Formula 1 icon Ayrton Senna, encapsulating the spirit of racing excellence and pioneering watchmaking innovation. Limited to only 250 pieces worldwide, this exceptional timepiece blends the precision engineering of TAG Heuer’s in-house Calibre TH20-09 with a bold and modern design inspired by Senna’s remarkable motorsport legacy. Crafted with a lightweight 44mm grade 2 titanium case, a skeletonized dial featuring racing motifs, and the signature flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock, the watch offers both outstanding technical performance and a visually striking presence on the wrist.
Case and Materials:
The 44mm case is constructed from grade 2 titanium, chosen for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, ensuring the watch remains both durable and lightweight for comfortable all-day wear. The case boasts a fine-brushed and sand-blasted finish that enhances its sporty, high-tech appearance. The domed “glassbox” sapphire crystal, treated with anti-reflective coatings on both sides, provides superior scratch resistance and optimal dial visibility from every angle. A sapphire exhibition case back reveals the intricate mechanics of the movement, including the beautifully finished rotor and tourbillon cage, inviting enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry within. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters (10 ATM), offering reliable protection for daily activities and light water exposure.
Dial and Design Elements:
The skeletonized dial is a masterpiece of layered complexity and legibility, designed to evoke Ayrton Senna’s racing heritage through a dynamic checkered motif and open-worked elements. This design not only showcases the mechanical intricacies beneath but also maintains clarity with applied luminescent hour markers and luminous baton hands that facilitate excellent readability in all lighting conditions. The chronograph sub-dials are subtly integrated with tone-on-tone finishes, while the bright yellow chronograph running seconds hand provides a vibrant accent, symbolizing speed and precision. Surrounding the crown is a distinctive bright green lacquered ring, a nod to Senna’s iconic helmet color, further personalizing this tribute piece.
Movement and Technical Excellence:
At the core of the watch beats TAG Heuer’s in-house Calibre TH20-09, a COSC-certified automatic chronograph movement renowned for its reliability and precision. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), the calibre offers an impressive 65-hour power reserve, ensuring continuous, accurate timekeeping for nearly three days without needing a rewind. The highlight is the flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, a mechanical marvel that enhances chronometric precision by mitigating the effects of gravity on the escapement. The chronograph complication features a central seconds hand, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock, making it a versatile and highly functional timepiece for both professional timing needs and daily wear.
Strap and Comfort:
Completing the design is a sporty blue rubber strap with an integrated design, engineered to provide maximum comfort and durability. The strap secures with a titanium folding clasp that matches the case material, ensuring a secure fit and adding to the overall lightweight feel of the watch.
Special Edition and Heritage:
This limited-edition timepiece is a celebration of Ayrton Senna’s indelible impact on motorsport, combining TAG Heuer’s technical innovation with design cues that honor the driver’s legacy. With only 250 pieces available globally, each watch is individually numbered, underscoring its exclusivity and appeal to collectors and racing enthusiasts alike. The packaging reflects the watch’s prestige, often including exclusive accessories and documentation that detail the collaboration and heritage.
Key Features Summary:
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Flying Tourbillon: An open-worked flying tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, combining mechanical ingenuity with enhanced timekeeping accuracy by compensating for gravitational effects.
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Skeletonized Dial with Racing Motifs: A dynamic design inspired by Senna’s racing wheels and helmet colors, featuring a checkered pattern and vibrant accents.
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COSC Certification: Guarantees chronometric precision and reliability.
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Chronograph Functions: Central seconds, 30-minute, and 12-hour counters provide precise timing capabilities.
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Lightweight Titanium Case: Grade 2 titanium construction ensures durability with reduced weight.
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Limited Edition: Numbered 1 to 250, highlighting exclusivity.
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Tribute Details: Green lacquered ring around the crown and other subtle references to Ayrton Senna’s legacy.
