TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph hands on – quirky watchmaking done right

If you want a chronograph which goes against the grain while still looking classy, this is the one to pick

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The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph on a white background
(Image credit: Future / Sam Cross)

While I've always loved the best watches, they're rarely mould-breakers. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak moving into mainstream consciousness is about as daring as most will get.

Me? I've always enjoyed something a bit more quirky. The Hamilton Ventura excites me thoroughly. Give me a triangle where most would have a round dial any day.

Enter the new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph. This is the quirky watch for boring watch collectors – if you're the kind of collector who spends an hour each morning deciding between your duo of black Rolex Submariners, this is going to feel like a whole new world.

Even before I saw it in the flesh, I was intrigued by this model. I've already dubbed it the Mike Wazowski – green, with one eye – but there's a lot more than a daft nickname to like here. On paper, it's a really top pick, sitting in a 39mm case and powered by a TH20 series movement.

It's not just a watch for nerds, though. In fact, the design here is arguably the better bit. That green dial is simply stunning. Add in a lopsided subdial arrangement and this was always going to take my fancy.

The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph on a white background

(Image credit: Future / Sam Cross)

Seeing it in the flesh took it to another level, though. For starters, if you think that green is good in the press images, just wait until you see it first hand. The dial shines like a fine emerald, and really does morph in the changing light.

The asymmetrical dial has the potential to put some users off, but you really shouldn't let it. On the wrist, I didn't even notice it, with the whole dial feeling really well balanced.

For me, this is one of the nicest chronograph implementations out there. Like most watch enthusiasts, I never use the chronograph function. I don't have to time racing laps, so it's really just a nice little quirk. That does make it a little silly to fill the dial with things we just aren't using.

Here, though, there's only a single subdial – Seiko Pogue style, if that's your bag. Think of it more like a nice dress watch with a subdial you probably won't ever use. Oh, and a date window on the other side.

For me, at just £6,000, that's a remarkable offering. Sure, it's not ultra cheap, but it's good for an in-house chronograph. Plus, it's a lot more interesting than the majority of watches out there. And that's worth its weight in gold.

Sam Cross
Sam Cross
Senior Staff Writer

Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.

Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.

He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.

Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.