Speed, heritage, precision, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, all synonymous with TAG Heuer, Porsche and the Carrera Panamericana race – and they are the hallmarks represented in the new TAG Heuer creation. The Swiss luxury watchmaker is thrilled to introduce the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana. This exclusive timepiece, limited to 255 pieces, captures the rich history of both TAG Heuer and Porsche, who are collaborating once again in what is the most authentic partnership between a watchmaker and a car manufacturer. This extraordinary watch reflects the shared heritage of both brands, rooted in the legendary Carrera Panamericana, and celebrates the 70th anniversary of Porsche’s victories there. Indeed, during the 1954 edition of the Carrera Panamericana, the Porsche 550 Spyder triumphed by coming first & second in the under 1500cc sports car class and third & fourth in the race overall.
The Raging Sound of The Carrera Panamericana
The Carrera Panamericana, known for its perilous yet thrilling course, has been a legendary cross- country rally in the motorsport universe since its inception in 1950. Spanning over 3,000 kilometers from the northern to the southern borders of Mexico, it quickly earned a reputation for pushing both drivers and their machines to their absolute limits. The Carrera Panamericana was a grueling test of speed, endurance, and skill, with competitors racing at an average speed exceeding 150 km/h through harsh terrains and extreme temperatures. Despite its cancellation after only five editions due to safety concerns, the race left a mark, inspiring countless stories and legends that continue to resonate to this day.
Porsche’s involvement in the Carrera Panamericana is a significant chapter in this storied history. In 1954, the Porsche 550 Spyder, driven by Hans Herrmann, clinched a class victory in this daunting race. This triumph lay the foundation of Porsche’s prowess in endurance racing and solidified its reputation for engineering superiority. The 550 Spyder, with its sleek design and advanced double overhead-cam engine, became an icon of automotive innovation and performance.
In 1962, Jack Heuer was inspired by tales of the Carrera Panamericana race’s danger and excitement, shared with him by the parents of Mexican racing legends Pedro and Ricardo Rodríguez. This fascination led him to create a chronograph named the Heuer Carrera, a name that perfectly captured the spirit of adventure, precision, and the constant pursuit of excellence. Introduced in 1963, the first Heuer Carrera chronograph presented a clean, uncluttered dial designed for easy readability at high speeds, personifying TAG Heuer’s commitment to functionality and elegance. Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2023, the TAG Heuer Carrera watch has cemented its standing as one of the most iconic and innovative wristwatches.
An Unstoppable Duo
Fast forward 36 years since the 1988 relaunch of the race, which is still ongoing today, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana continues this legacy of excellence and innovation. Launched for the Carrera Panamericana race, this timepiece celebrates history and the powerful partnership between TAG Heuer and Porsche, much to the delight of TAG Heuer and Porsche fans and watch aficionados.
The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana’s design draws direct inspiration from the iconic Porsche 550 Spyder racecar. The skeleton dial, with its elaborate details, mirrors the wheels of the 550 Spyder, while the color scheme — silver, yellow, and black are directly drawn from the original vehicle’s livery. The yellow lacquered hand and subdial hands represent an extra added distinctive sporting touch in the watch.
The shimmery effect on the dial plate and subdials evokes the 550 Spyder’s bodywork, and the grained effect on the skeleton dial – whose shape is inspired by the 550’s racing wheels - symbolizes the asphalt texture of the road, adding a sporty and racing touch. Through the dial, the snail-brushed movement plate finish is visible, marrying technical savoir-faire with timekeeping beauty.
The 42mm watch’s construction features a stainless steel case with fine-brushed and polished alternating finishes, and an engraved “Spyder” logo on the side, resonant of the original font used by Porsche in the 1950s. The curved flange is adorned with the Porsche logo, and the “Panamericana” marking at six o’clock on the dial is a hint to the legendary race.
The timepiece boasts a domed sapphire Glassbox crystal paying homage to similarly domed hesalite crystal designs from the 1970s. Reengineered to have a curve that flows seamlessly over the flange, it runs along the edge of the dial, blending into the case. This innovative design offers an easy reading of the indications on the dial, perfect for any racer on the most demanding roads.
The black perforated calfskin leather strap, with a yellow lining and stitching, adds a subtle sportiness and vintage charm, further enhancing its appeal. The strap’s visible lining on the side is a novel design element that enhances the watch’s athletic aesthetic.
At the heart of this masterpiece is the TH20-09 in-house tourbillon movement, offering a 65-hour power reserve for ultimate precision. The Porsche steering wheel mass – which can be seen in all of the past TAG Heuer x Porsche watches - visible through the sapphire caseback, serves as a unique tribute to the automotive inspiration behind this timepiece.
Limited to just 255 pieces, this edition is a nod to the number “55”, which decorated the Porsche 550 Spyder during its victorious run in the 1954 Carrera Panamericana. Each watch is individually numbered and features a special engraving “LIMITED EDITION” that highlights its exclusivity.
The luxurious packaging, crafted from lacquered wood in black with personalization in the yellow Pantone of the piece, adds an extra layer of sophistication and exclusivity to the piece.
As was the case in 2023, Porsche and TAG Heuer will again present a unique one-off Porsche car, to celebrate both marques’ relationship with the Carrera Panamericana, to be revealed during the race’s stint in Mexico City.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana testifies to the strong three-way link between TAG Heuer, Porsche, and the Carrera Panamericana race. This collaboration celebrates a common and shared history as well as a joint passion for adrenaline and innovation. By drawing inspiration from the past and reinterpreting it through modern design, TAG Heuer and Porsche continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in both watchmaking and motorsport for the future.
