Hot Take: TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16
We bring you a look at the updated TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16, a slightly changed chronograph that should continue to appeal to fans everywhere.
Although it’s not breaking news, we recently received additional information on changes to the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16. Due to the popularity of this model, the changes are definitely more evolutionary than revolutionary as TAG would be foolish to toy with success. Still, I think the changes are for the better.
A Basis of Comparison – TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16
In order to provide you with some background on what has changed (the new model is above), let’s see where we’ve been with the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16. I was cruising through TAG’s site and found a number of different variants using the Calibre 16 (Sellita SW500) automatic chronograph movement and in 41mm cases.
There’s the dressier version (ref. CBK2110) that you see above which is a rather lovely watch with a stainless bezel.
Then, there’s the sportier model (ref. CV201AJ) that TAG seems to reference as the predecessor to today’s model.
But wait, there’s also the more heritage inspired model (CV201AP), which seems to offer some similar cues as the new release. Regardless, what we have today does truly offer some changes.
A New Bezel and Colorful Highlights
The new TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16 will come with either a black (ref. CBM2110) or blue sunray dial (ref. CBM2112) and on perforated leather strap or stainless bracelet. While the case diameter remains at 41mm, TAG tells us that the lugs have been shortened to create an easier fit for a wider range of potential customers. I asked about the exact difference in length, but haven’t received that info as of yet. From the pictures, the change isn’t obvious because the lugs keep their same carved shape on the insides of the lugs just like classic 60’s Carreras. But, if TAG tells us there’s a change, we’ll take their word. Take note of the new bezels. They appear larger now because they’re no longer inserts surrounded by a steel bezel. The entire bezel is ceramic and it fits neatly into the mid case. Water resistance remains as 100 meters.
The dial on the new TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16 also boasts changes. The calibre is no longer mentioned on the dial and that creates a cleaner overall look in my opinion. The hour markers have been lengthened and receive SuperLuminova on the actual index whereas the prior model had adjoining lume. Notice the crisp surrounds on the 6:00 and 12:00 sub dials and it makes for a crisper, higher end design. To make things a bit sports, TAG threw some color into the mix: red on the black dial and orange on the blue. This color shows up on the end of the central chronograph hand, the tips of the 6/12 sub register hands and around the edge of the dial from 12:00 to 3:00. The same colors make their way in the form of a ring that divides the start/stop pusher at 2pm. The main crown also gets a bit of detailing with a black ring and black resin cap.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
The TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16 will retail for 3,900 Euros on strap and 4,050 Euros on bracelet. These prices, by the way, are right on line with prior models, so there are thankfully no surprises there. All in all, I like the modest updates to this Carrera. The colors look sharp without being cheap looking and the black model looks dressier than the prior heritage-looking edition. I also like the look of the straps with these red or orange stitching as I think they allow the watch head to stand on its own a bit more. TAG Heuer apparently sells a lot of Carrera Calibre 16 chronographs. With these upscale changes, I have little doubt that the trend will continue.
For more information on the TAG Heuer Calibre 16 chronograph, visit the official TAG Heuer site.
