TAG Heuer Introduces New Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph

TAG Heuer is kicking off 2026 with a serious flex in high watchmaking. Revealed at LVMH Watch Week in Milan, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph marks the first time the legendary Carrera collection has featured a rattrapante complication, a major milestone for the brand as it blends cutting-edge engineering with decades of racing heritage.

According to TAG Heuer, the watch “blends the incredible heritage of this iconic collection with avant-garde watchmaking,” reinforcing the Carrera’s status as one of the most important chronograph families in Swiss watch history.

The First Rattrapante in the TAG Heuer Carrera Line

This release represents the first-ever inclusion of a split-seconds chronograph in the Carrera collection. This model is a a milestone for TAG Heuer as the brand continues to show how incredible cutting-edge design can be blended with exceptional history.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the rattrapante complication allows multiple elapsed times to be measured simultaneously – a fitting addition to a watch born from motorsport inspiration.

A Modern Take on a Legendary Design

The Carrera name traces back to 1963, when Jack Heuer introduced the original model during what the brand calls a “golden era for watchmaking.” Inspired by the Carrera Panamericana road race, the watch quickly became known for its clean layout, legibility, and signature peaked lugs.

Building on that legacy, the new Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph evolves the modern Carrera design language introduced in 2023, including the now-signature “glassbox” crystal. This new version features a newly developed 42mm grade-5 titanium case that maintains classic Carrera proportions while elevating it into haute horlogerie territory.

Refined pushers flank the crown, while an additional pusher at 9 o’clock activates the split-seconds function, seamlessly integrated into the case band.

Inside the Calibre TH81-01 Movement

At the heart of the watch is the Calibre TH81-01, which was developed in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier. Beating at 5Hz with a 65-hour power reserve (55 hours with the chronograph engaged), TAG Heuer states that the movement “conforms to the highest quality standards of TAG Heuer.”

Crafted in grade-5 titanium, the movement consists of more than 350 components and is finished entirely by hand using over 10 different techniques. The finishing is crowned by TAG Heuer’s signature checkered flag pattern, engraved “one square after another,” underscoring the brand’s motorsport DNA.

A sapphire caseback allows full visibility of the movement, creating the impression that the Calibre TH81-01 is floating within the case.

A Transparent Dial Built for Precision

The Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph features a translucent sapphire glass dial paired with an anthracite translucent acrylic flange. The curved tachymeter scale follows the profile of the crystal to minimize parallax error, while individually constructed subdials enhance depth and readability.

Branding elements including “CARRERA”, “SWISS”, and “MADE” are printed on the watch’s dial, accompanied by a rhodium-plated polished TAG HEUER applied logo.

Titanium Case, Rubber Strap, Serious Presence

The 42mm case measures 48.6mm lug-to-lug with a thickness of 15.17mm, delivering a bold but wearable profile. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, and the watch is paired with a black rubber strap featuring textile embossing and red stitching, secured by a grade-5 titanium folding clasp with double safety push-buttons.

Pricing and Availability

The TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph (Ref. CDD2180.FT8120) is scheduled to be available in June 2026, with an estimated retail price of $127,000. Yeah, you can practically buy a Porsche 911 for this kind of money, it seems rather aggressively priced.

A Statement Piece for TAG Heuer’s Avant-Garde Future

As TAG Heuer enters its 166th year, the Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph stands as a bold expression of the brand’s philosophy, “Designed to Win.” By combining racing heritage, modern materials, and one of watchmaking’s most complex chronograph complications, TAG Heuer is making it clear that the Carrera remains a cornerstone of its avant-garde vision.

For serious collectors and fans of high-performance watches, this is not just a new Carrera, it’s a defining moment for the collection.