With the debut of the Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph, TAG Heuer introduces the rattrapante complication into the Carrera collection for the first time, marking an important milestone for the Maison.
The new model represents the highest level of TAG Heuer’s chronograph expertise, combining a split-seconds mechanism with the design language that has defined the Carrera since its creation by Jack Heuer in 1963.
Unveiled during LVMH Watch Week 2026 in Milan, the watch expands TAG Heuer’s avant-garde haute horlogerie offering while reaffirming the Carrera’s role as a technical and stylistic reference within the brand’s portfolio.
Its introduction reflects TAG Heuer’s continued effort to integrate contemporary watchmaking developments into one of its most established collections.
The model builds upon the Carrera redesign introduced in 2023, which established the glassbox architecture as a defining feature of the modern Carrera.
These updated proportions and visual codes provide the foundation for a more complex horological execution, allowing the split-seconds chronograph to be introduced while preserving the collection’s core identity.
For this model, TAG Heuer has developed a new 42 mm Grade 5 titanium case with a thickness of 15.17 mm.
The design maintains the Carrera’s characteristic ergonomics and emphasis on legibility, while positioning the watch within the brand’s haute horlogerie segment.
Chronograph functions are controlled via pushers positioned on either side of the crown, while a discreet pusher integrated into the case band at 9 o’clock activates the split-seconds mechanism.
The glassbox crystal has been further refined to integrate seamlessly with the case, enhancing the sense of depth across the dial and rehaut. The tachymeter scale and the 1/5-second flange follow the curvature of the crystal, reducing parallax error and improving legibility.
A translucent sapphire dial provides a clear view of the movement’s finishing from the dial side, reinforcing the watch’s emphasis on visual transparency.
The TH81-01 calibre, developed in collaboration with Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier and an evolution of the TH81-00 used in the Monaco Split-Seconds, is visible through a sapphire caseback that continues the floating movement aesthetic first introduced in that model.
Operating at a frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour), the movement is designed to support precise chronograph measurement. It offers a power reserve of approximately 65 hours with the chronograph disengaged, or around 55 hours when the chronograph functions are in use. The calibre is tested in TAG Heuer’s internal laboratory to assess performance, reliability, and resistance to wear under controlled conditions.
Comprising more than 350 components, the TH81-01 features extensive hand finishing using multiple techniques. These include black polishing applied to selected elements such as screws, along with anglage on various components.
The bridges are further distinguished by a hand-applied chequered flag motif executed using the graté technique, serving as a visual signature of TAG Heuer’s split-seconds chronograph movements. A hand-painted gradient line along the periphery of the oscillating mass adds an additional level of visual refinement.
Water resistant to 30 metres, the watch is fitted with a black rubber strap featuring textile embossing and red stitching, secured by a Grade 5 titanium folding clasp with double safety push-buttons. The lug width measures 22 mm.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph, reference CDD2180.FT8120, is priced at CHF 110,000. tagheuer.com
It looks fantastic but the price is way too high
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