TAG Heuer continues its collaboration with Gulf by unveiling a new Formula 1 chronograph inspired by the iconic racing colours of the oil company.
The new Formula 1 Automatic Chronograph x Gulf (Ref. CBZ208B.BF0009) draws on a visual identity that has become inseparable from endurance racing, particularly the Gulf-liveried cars that competed at Le Mans and gained worldwide recognition through Steve McQueen’s 1971 film Le Mans.
For more on TAG Heuer’s long-standing ties with motorsport, see our feature article The history of TAG Heuer.
While TAG Heuer and Gulf share decades of association with motorsport, this latest limited edition focuses on combining the unmistakable blue-and-orange colour scheme with the technical character of the Formula 1 Automatic Chronograph collection.
The 44 mm case is crafted from sandblasted Grade 2 titanium, chosen for its combination of light weight and durability.
Between the case and bezel sits an orange ring that provides a subtle reference to the Gulf palette.
The fixed tachymeter bezel features a forged carbon insert whose naturally irregular surface gives each watch a slightly different appearance.
Further motorsport-inspired details include the black DLC-coated titanium pushers and screw-down crown, the latter accented with orange lacquer. Water resistance is rated to 200 metres / 660 feet.
The dial is organised for maximum legibility, with a black opaline central section framed by a blue running track and crossed by the signature vertical Gulf stripes in blue and orange.
The chronograph counters are arranged in the traditional tri-compax layout, with a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock and the running seconds at 9 o’clock.
Their lacquered hands echo the Gulf colours, while the central chronograph seconds hand is finished in bright orange.
Rhodium-plated applied indexes and skeletonised hour and minute hands are filled with white Super-LumiNova that emits a green glow in low light. A date aperture is positioned at 3 o’clock.
Inside, the watch is powered by the automatic Calibre 16, whose cam-actuated chronograph mechanism is well known for its reliability.
Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), the self-winding movement offers a 42-hour power reserve.
The movement is protected by a screw-down titanium caseback engraved with the Gulf logo, underscoring the collaborative nature of the edition.
The watch is fitted with a three-row sandblasted Grade 2 titanium bracelet secured by a folding clasp with double safety push-buttons and a comfort extension.
It is presented in dedicated packaging featuring Gulf’s distinctive blue and orange colours.
Limited to 1,000 pieces, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Automatic Chronograph x Gulf (Ref. CBZ208B.BF0009) is priced at CHF 5,950 / €6,300 / US6,300. tagheuer.com
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