A TOKEN OF RECOGNITION
Magic Senna’s spirit continues to haunt Formula 1 Grand Prix races. La Chaux-de-Fonds’ watchmakers pay him an eloquent tribute with two chronographs depicting his portrait.
Since his untimely death some 25 years ago, TAG Heuer regularly pays tribute to Ayrton Senna who was its ambassador and who lent his face to the first Don’t Crack under Pressure campaign in 1991. This year, two timepieces commemorate this legendary champion. The Carrera Heuer 02T Ayrton Senna Special Edition 2019 adorns the yellow and green colors of the flag of the racing driver’s native land. These two shades vibrantly brighten the 45 mm-diameter matt-black case fashioned in ceramic. This exceptional chronograph is powered by an automatic tourbillon caliber, visible at 6 o’clock, COSC-chronometer-certified (65-hour power reserve). The 65 pieces of this limited edition embrace various references to the Brazilian racer. His name features on the bezel, his initial decorates the totalizer at 9 o’clock and his helmet-covered face illustrates the sapphire crystal caseback. The watch is complemented by a black rubber and calfskin strap.
The Formula 1 Calibre 16 Ayrton Senna Special Edition 2019 chronograph invites to discover a totally different style. Its 44 mm-diameter steel case is paired with a strap made from the same material. The strap stands out with its structure comprising S-shaped links. An engraving of Senna’s helmet adorns the screwed steel caseback. The time data and short-cycle time measurements are driven by an automatic movement, the caliber 16, which delivers some 42 hours’ autonomy once the watch is fully wound.
Both models are presented in a case specially made for the occasion.
Price: CHF20,400 (Carrera Heuer 02T) – CHF3,100 (Formula 1 Calibre 16) www.tagheuer.com
By Dan Diaconu