In spite of the tough economic times and record-high inflation, TAG Heuer, a relatively accessible watchmaker, has chosen to release an 18K gold version of its Carrera Chronograph.

The 2022 Carrera Chronograph Yellow Gold features an 18K 3N Yellow Gold case, bezel, sapphire caseback, and pushers. The case measures 42 mm in diameter and is approximately 15 mm thick, and is available only with a black alligator leather strap and yellow gold pin buckle.

A black brushed sunburst dial is contrasted by yellow gold baton hands and applied multi-faceted indices that are split down the middle, as well as a gold frame and gold subdials. It’s unclear if the gold highlights on the dial are plated or solid 18K. Carrera is printed in white at 12, just above the gilted TAG Heuer shield emblem. A 60 minute/second scale is printed in white on the sloped flange.

TAG Heuer’s ubiquitous in-house caliber Heuer 02 automatic movement, which beats at 4Hz and has an 80-hour power reserve powers the hours, minutes, small seconds, date and chronograph. It’s a column wheel equipped chronograph and is automatically wound by a black skeletonized osciallating weight, which is visible through the exhibition caseback.

While you do receive a TAG Heuer travel pouch when buying from TAG Heuer’s website, the price is practically 4X what a steel version of this watch will run you, and that does not include an 18K gold bracelet, so it’s pretty steep relatively speaking.

TAG Heuer’s 2022 Carrera Chronograph in 18K Yellow Gold (Ref. CBN2044.FC8313) retails for $21,500.

 

Photos by TAG Heuer.