TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer

The enduring legacy of TAG Heuer is deeply intertwined with the pursuit of precision in the most demanding environments, from the blistering asphalt of motor racing circuits to the unforgiving vacuum of space. The Carrera collection, a name born from the crucible of motorsport, has consistently embodied this spirit of pioneering performance. Now, that same spirit is charting a new course, looking upward to the cosmos. The brand introduces the TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer, a timepiece that translates the collection's high-octane heritage into the silent, rhythmic language of celestial mechanics, presenting a contemporary vision of astronomical watchmaking.



This venture into the cosmos is not a new frontier for the brand but rather a return to a pivotal moment in its history. On February 20, 1962, the world watched as astronaut John Glenn piloted the Friendship 7 spacecraft into orbit, completing three circuits of the Earth. Strapped to his wrist was a modified Heuer 2915A stopwatch, serving as a critical backup instrument. This event marked the first time a Swiss timepiece ventured into space, a testament to Heuer's technical prowess and reliability under extreme conditions. That mission solidified the brand's association with human exploration and daring discovery, a legacy that now directly inspires the creation of the Carrera Astronomer.



The Carrera Astronomer represents a conceptual shift, trading the frantic count of lap times for the patient observation of the lunar cycle. It honors the brand's historical link to space exploration by creating an instrument focused on a fundamental cosmic rhythm. This launch signifies an expansion of TAG Heuer's mechanical and creative horizons, a continuation of its mission to craft instruments that not only measure time but also engage with the world—and universe—around them, embracing the unknown with calculated precision.



At the heart of the TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer beats the newly introduced Calibre 7. This automatic mechanical movement provides a reliable 50-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), ensuring a smooth and accurate sweep of the seconds hand. Its primary distinction, however, is the innovative moonphase complication it drives, which is designed to fundamentally redefine how the lunar cycle is presented and understood on the wrist. This isn't merely a decorative feature; it is a functional and scientifically-minded display.



Positioned prominently at the 6 o'clock location on the dial, the moonphase display is a marvel of clarity. It features a rotating disc that presents seven distinct, illustrated stages of the moon with crisp graphical accuracy. This disc is flanked by two slender arrows, which are calibrated to track the daily motion within the 29.5-day synodic period. This dual-indicator approach allows the wearer to see not only the current phase of the moon but also its precise position within the longer cycle, a departure from the often abstract and singular aperture displays found in more traditional moonphase watches.



TAG Heuer's design philosophy for this complication was rooted in scientific fidelity. The goal was to create a display that was both avant-garde in its execution and completely intuitive in its function, bringing a new level of clarity to an age-old astronomical observation. To maintain this connection to the celestial rhythm, the lunar disc is engineered to advance precisely at 1:00 AM each day, perfectly synchronized with the actual movement of the moon. This mechanical discipline enhances the watch's accuracy and fosters a tangible connection between the instrument and the cosmic cycle it tracks.



Flipping the watch over reveals a solid steel caseback that further solidifies the timepiece's thematic identity. Instead of a sapphire exhibition window, the caseback is adorned with a special engraving depicting an astronomical observatory. This detailed motif serves as a direct tribute to the practice of celestial observation that inspired the watch. Accompanying this is the Victory Wreath, a symbol of triumph and enduring achievement, linking the watch back to the successful mission of John Glenn and the brand's own history of excellence.



The TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer is launched as a trilogy of timepieces. While all three models are united by a shared creative vision and technical foundation, each possesses a distinct visual identity shaped by a unique combination of materials, colors, and finishes. This approach allows the collection to explore different facets of its lunar inspiration, from stark, high-contrast modernism to warm, classical refinement, ensuring a version that resonates with varied personal tastes.



The first model, designated WBX2110.BA0044, serves as the core offering in the collection. It is a study in bold clarity, constructed entirely from stainless steel. The silver sunray brushed dial provides a radiant backdrop for the high-contrast elements, including a deep black flange and a matching black moonphase disc. This color scheme powerfully evokes the image of the moon against the void of space. The hands and applied indices are rhodium-plated and filled with white Super-LumiNova®, guaranteeing excellent legibility in all lighting conditions.



This core model is paired with a striking seven-row steel bracelet. Its design is a modern reinterpretation of the "beads of rice" style that was iconic for the Maison in the 1960s, creating a direct link to the brand's heritage. The bracelet's fluid construction and substantial visual presence give the watch a confident and grounded feel on the wrist, balancing its sophisticated dial with a robust and purposeful architecture. The fine-brushed and polished finishes of the bracelet and case play with light, adding a dynamic quality to the overall design.



The second iteration, reference WBX2112.FC6615, introduces a crisp, futuristic aesthetic and is produced in a limited run of 500 individually numbered pieces. Its silver sunray brushed dial is framed by a dark grey flange, creating a subtle yet impactful contrast. The defining feature of this model is its use of vibrant turquoise accents. This color is applied to the printed Arabic numerals, the hands, and the details of the moonphase display, with each element enhanced by a corresponding blue-glowing Super-LumiNova®. This luminous detail injects a palpable sense of energy and modernity into the design.



Completing this limited-edition model is a supple grey calfskin leather strap. The strap’s texture and color add a layer of modern refinement and tactile comfort to the watch, softening its metallic profile. It is fitted with a stainless-steel folding clasp with double safety push-buttons, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. This combination of a cool-toned dial with a sophisticated leather strap makes it a versatile piece that speaks to a contemporary sensibility.



The third and final model in the trilogy, WBX2111.BD0002, brings a notable warmth and refined character to the series. This version features a two-tone construction, blending the cool strength of stainless steel with the rich hue of 18K 5N rose gold plating. The flange, applied Arabic numerals, and hands are all plated in this precious metal, creating a warm and inviting contrast against the silver sunray dial. The hands are also filled with Super-LumiNova® for low-light visibility.



On this model, the moonphase display is executed in a subtle tone-on-tone palette, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into the warm and luxurious composition of the dial. This edition, also limited to 500 individually numbered pieces, is secured by a two-tone bracelet that mirrors the case's materials, featuring steel links accented with 18K 5N rose gold fine-brushed central links. This bracelet continues the heritage "beads of rice" structure, creating a cohesive and luxurious statement on the wrist.



Across all three variations, the case architecture remains consistent and thoughtfully proportioned. The 39-millimeter diameter provides a balanced and versatile presence, suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes and occasions. The case is expertly finished with a combination of fine-brushed and polished surfaces, a hallmark of the Carrera collection that highlights its dynamic lines. With a water resistance of 100 meters, the watch is engineered not just for aesthetic appeal but also for practical daily wear.



The Calibre 7 movement that powers the collection is a testament to TAG Heuer's commitment to reliable and functional mechanics. The 50-hour power reserve means the watch can be set down for a weekend and will still be running on Monday morning, a practical feature for the modern wearer. The automatic winding mechanism ensures that the watch remains powered through the natural motion of the wearer's wrist, making it a convenient and low-maintenance companion.



The dial of the Carrera Astronomer is the clear focal point, designed with legibility and function at the forefront. The sunray brushed finish, common to all three models, creates a dynamic play of light that emanates from the center, drawing the eye across the face of the watch. The choice of applied indices on the steel and two-tone models adds a sense of depth, while the printed numerals on the turquoise-accented version enhance its clean, modern feel. Every element is placed with purpose, contributing to a balanced and intuitive layout.



The TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer collection is available now. The core steel model on a steel bracelet (WBX2110.BA0044) is priced at $4,800. The limited edition steel model with turquoise accents on a leather strap (WBX2112.FC6615) is priced at $4,600. The limited edition two-tone steel and 18K 5N rose gold plated model (WBX2111.BD0002) is priced at $7,250. Both limited editions are restricted to 500 pieces each. Purchases made through the official TAG Heuer website include exclusive packaging and a complimentary travel pouch.



WBX2110.BA0044



Case: 39 mm diameter, fine-brushed and polished steel, 100 meters water resistance, solid steel screw-down caseback with "space observatory" engraving.

Movement: Calibre 7 Automatic Moonphase, 50-hour power reserve, 28,800 (4 Hz) frequency, functions include hours, minutes, seconds, and moonphase.

Dial: Silver sunray brushed finish, black flange, black moonphase disc at 6 o'clock, rhodium-plated applied indices and hands with white Super-LumiNova®.

Strap: 7-row steel "beads of rice" style bracelet with fine-brushed and polished finishing.

Price: $4,800.00

Reference Number: WBX2110.BA0044

Notes: Core collection model inspired by John Glenn's 1962 Friendship 7 space mission. Celebrates the first Swiss timepiece in space.





WBX2112.FC6615



Case: 39 mm diameter, fine-brushed and polished steel, 100 meters water resistance, solid steel screw-down caseback with "space observatory" engraving.

Movement: Calibre 7 Automatic Moonphase, 50-hour power reserve, 28,800 (4 Hz) frequency, functions include hours, minutes, seconds, and moonphase.

Dial: Silver sunray brushed finish, dark grey flange, printed Arabic numerals and hands with turquoise accents and blue Super-LumiNova®, moonphase details highlighted in turquoise.

Strap: Grey calfskin leather strap with a steel folding clasp and double safety push-buttons.

Price: $4,600.00

Reference Number: WBX2112.FC6615

Notes: Limited edition of 500 pieces. Features a modern, futuristic aesthetic with vibrant turquoise details and a matching blue luminous display.





WBX2111.BD0002



Case: 39 mm diameter, fine-brushed and polished steel, 100 meters water resistance, solid steel screw-down caseback with "space observatory" engraving.

Movement: Calibre 7 Automatic Moonphase, 50-hour power reserve, 28,800 (4 Hz) frequency, functions include hours, minutes, seconds, and moonphase.

Dial: Silver sunray brushed finish, 18K 5N rose gold plated flange, applied Arabic numerals, and hands with Super-LumiNova®, tone-on-tone silver moonphase display.

Strap: 7-row "beads of rice" style bracelet in steel with 18K 5N rose gold fine-brushed accents, steel folding clasp.

Price: $7,250.00

Reference Number: WBX2111.BD0002

Notes: Limited edition of 500 pieces. A two-tone execution that combines steel with warm rose gold plated elements for a more refined look.