If there's something that sets TAG Heuer apart from the competition is its product offering that ranges from quartz watchmaking to haute horlogerie. This approach gives an enthusiast the chance to appreciate the brand thanks to an entry level product range rather complete and affordable such as the Formula 1 line up.
TAG Heuer strongly believes in the Formula 1 range, nonetheless it has fully revamped it this year while proposing chronographs such as the Calibre 16 (here is our related post) or three hands timepieces such as the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Calibre 6. The new for 2014 Formula 1 range is TAG Heuer's attempt to revitalize the case design from the 70s models, and its Autavia, in particular, as these new timepieces quite clearly draw their inspiration from its tonneau case and its bracelet.
In details, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Calibre 6 is a three hands timepiece featuring a black or white dial. In both cases it has a small seconds counter just at 6 with a small anular circle around it, that is black in the first option or anthracite with the white dial. The 41mm wide case is brushed with just the rotating part of the bezel and the crown being mirror polished.
But what distinguishes this new model from TAG Heuer's Formula 1 original release is the brand's desire to position the watch a bit more upscale while attracting a different audience: the Formula 1 range has never given me heart palpitations to be honest, with its first release and, in my opinion, it had a "toy-watch" look that had nothing to do with TAG Heuer's brand image, history and pedigree.
By choosing this timepiece you enter the TAG Heuer's world with a nicely done wristwatch, powered by a reliable automatic movement (sourced from Sellita) and with a wide offering of options in terms of bracelets, straps and dials. All in all at a price tag between 1200 Euro and 1600 Euro, which is quite attractive. I would suggest to go for the stainless steel bracelet option whose only flaw is, I think, its clasp is way too cheap.
(Photo credit: Horbiter®'s proprietary photo-shooting)
Gaetano C. @Horbiter®
