One To Watch | TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands
Revisiting a TAG Heuer legend, this new generation TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands Watch is a modern update of the TAG Heuer Carrera that first became an icon over 60 years ago and if you’re a true luxury watch fan, you’ll want to read on to find out what makes the latest Carrera watch so special.
World-famous and well-respected actor Ryan Gosling has partnered with TAG Heuer as a Carrera Three Hands brand ambassador and we couldn’t think of a more fitting partnership. Read on to find out why, but first, let’s find out what makes this new watch collection so special.
We’re so pleased to hear this Three Hands design still has all of the same obsessions that Jack Heuer put into the first Carrera in the 60s. Readability is still at the forefront of this exciting new update, followed closely by timeless and sporty elegance. Join us as we take a closer look…
A legend for over 60 years
To fully appreciate the beauty of today’s Carrera Three Hands watch, it’s important to understand its rich heritage. It’s believed visionary Jack Heuer saw a need for a minimal luxury timepiece with optimum readability after he dropped from first to third in a Swiss rally he was competing in due to not being able to read the dashboard correctly. He wanted something clean and uncomplicated, but still sporty.
In 1962, as CEO at the time, Jack Heuer became interested in the famous Carrera Panamericana car race, known for being one of the most dangerous car races in the world. As Carrera means road, race, course or career in Spanish, Jack knew this was the perfect name for TAG Heuer’s next collection.
Fast forward to 1963 and the Carrera was born. It’s clean and simple dial featured three chronograph sub dials and minimal text. It was the perfect timepiece for racing drivers who needed to be able to tell the time at a quick glance when under pressure. This watch was equally loved just as much by sport fans who preferred to support from the side lines too.
In the early 2000’s, the TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands design was introduced, continuing the brand’s quest for perfect readability and clarity. The original dashboard style was replaced by a sub dial at 6 o’clock, counting and displaying seconds for the sharpest way of telling the time.
The new generation
The only thing better than hearing there’s a new TAG Heuer Carrera collection, is hearing the news that there’s actually four sub-collections to suit all sizes and tastes.
Revisiting its rich heritage and adding in a touch of modernity, the latest Carrera Three hands collection still has readability on its mind. Its legacy has been carried on beautifully and each watch defines timeless elegance.
All incorporating the iconic stylistic codes of the TAG Heuer Carrera Heuer 02 chronographs that were introduced last year, the new range includes 13 references within four sub-collections. Like the sound of the new generation Three Hands design? Let’s find the size and style that suits you perfectly.
TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands Date 39mm
Powered by the Calibre 5 automatic movement, this new watch is designed with a new case and refined lugs. This style is also equipped with the new H-shaped bracelet, offering ultimate comfort with its thinner and lighter design. For a traditional look, a brown leather strap is available too.
The bolder hands and refined hour markers ensure maximum readability and a date window is included at 6 o’clock. Optimum readability is also a priority in darkness. The Super LumiNova coating on the hands and hour markers will light up your way to perfect timing no matter how dark it is.
TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands Day Date 41mm
With all the same stylish qualities and intricate features as the 39mm watch, this version comes in at a slightly larger 41mm and includes a day window alongside the date window, now sitting at 3 o’clock.
TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands Twin-Time Date 41mm
Equipped with the Calibre 7 automatic movement, the TAG Heuer Carrera Twin-Time also features the new H-shaped bracelet and bolder hour and minute hands. The refined Twin-Time hand tip offers quick readability as it points to the 24 hour display on the flange around the edge of the dial. The new refined flange comes in bicolour, silver and blue.
TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands Date 29mm
Featuring the Calibre 9 automatic movement, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Date 29mm features a new case with refined lugs and the new H-shaped bracelet. Bolder hands and a new refined index offer excellent readability. The slender design also features a date window at 6 o’clock and offers a glamorous version with glittering diamond hour markers.
TAG Heuer Ambassador - Ryan Gosling
Often compared to the great Steve McQueen (who has been a hugely influential part of TAG Heuer’s history. Find out more here.) Ryan Gosling’s desire to push himself and challenge himself within his different roles caught TAG Heuer’s attention. Sharing very similar morals with the brand’s ‘Don’t crack under pressure’ mantra, it makes perfect sense to invite one of Hollywood’s hardest working actors onboard with TAG Heuer.
Just when you thought you couldn’t want the new TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands watch more, here’s Ryan Gosling sporting this perfectly harmonious watch in his debut for TAG Heuer.
Our verdict
Things we like
✔ The history of the watch and how it carries on the Carrera’s legacy
✔ The different case size options to suit all
✔ The new H-shaped bracelet
✔ Optimum readability
Perfect for
✔ Lovers of rich heritage
✔ Sport enthusiasts who need to tell the time as quickly as possible
✔ Those searching for Swiss made luxury
Want to see more from TAG Heuer and their iconic collections? Our Guide to buying a TAG Heuer will take you through each collection and help you find the watch that’s perfect for you. Or find out everything you need to know about Swiss watches with our handy Swiss watch buying guide.
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