If we are used to seeing the Carrera and Monaco endlessly revisited by TAG Heuer, the brand has a nice surprise in store for watch and F1 enthusiasts this year. The Swiss house has indeed unveiled a new Formula 1 Series 1 as part of a collaboration with Kith, bringing back to life one of the most emblematic models from the early 1980s!
The Formula 1, an essential watch for TAG Heuer
The history of the TAG Heuer Formula 1 dates back to 1986, a time when quartz ruled supreme over watchmaking innovations. The original Formula 1 was a revolution in the approach to sports watches, combining performance and bold style with its fiberglass case and bright colors.
But above all, this watch was the first to bear the name TAG Heuer, symbolizing a new era for the Heuer brand, then in the midst of transformation following its acquisition by TAG (Techniques d’Avant Garde).
In the mid-1980s, this first Formula 1 allowed many watch enthusiasts to discover new Swiss watchmaking, attracted by its innovative design and accessibility. Over the years, the TAG Heuer collections have evolved to become increasingly refined, but without ever losing that original spirit of “accessible sports watch”.
Today, the revival of this iconic model is a tribute to its pioneering status and its lasting impact on the culture of sports watches. But it especially benefits from another name respected by streetwear and luxury fans: Kith.
A high-color icon with Kith
For this exceptional collaboration, TAG Heuer and Kith have revisited the Formula 1, respecting the essence of the original watch. But of course, a few small “improvements” make all the difference.
Thus, the case retains the shape that had won so many hearts, but now uses more efficient materials. Mixing steel and black PVD and displaying a diameter of 35 mm, it is designed in the same mold as the 1986 Formula 1. Now topped with a flat, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the watch exchanges its old plastic bracelet for a flexible and durable rubber model.
The new series is available in ten colors, each echoing the historic models of TAG Heuer. These editions include subtle references to special editions and brand partnerships, such as the version (green, yellow, and red) launched with F1 driver Ukyo Katayama. The most striking details are undoubtedly on the dial, with the presence of a “Kith Heuer” logo or the mention “Just Us”, a nod to the family of Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith.
Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith
Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith
Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith
Ten watches and a collector’s box
In total, as has been said, there are 10 watches that perpetuate the legacy of TAG Heuer’s first Formula 1, all offered at a price of 1500 euros.
Some iterations (red racing, black and yellow, or green, yellow and red) pay tribute to various Kith store locations around the world and are therefore exclusively available at Kith. Only 250 copies of these models will be produced.
Naturally, TAG Heuer also benefits from its own limited editions, with two watches issued in 825 copies each. But the centerpiece of the collection is a watch available both at TAG Heuer and Kith, limited to 1,350 pieces. This classic model combines a black bezel and red accents, with a steel bracelet and an eggshell dial, recalling the patinated versions of the 1986 model.
Finally, as it is sometimes difficult to make a choice, a ultra-collector’s set containing all ten watches will also be available for sale. Limited to just 75 pieces, it is priced at 18,000 euros.
