Introducing TAG Heuer Collaborates With Ikuzawa And Presents The New Carrera Chronograph By Bamford

TAG Heuer, a renowned Swiss luxury watchmaker, with a deep and enduring relationship with motorsport that spans over five decades. This affiliation has not only defined the brand but also solidified its position as a symbol of precision and performance in the world of watchmaking.

The brand's connection with motorsport can be traced back to the 1960s when it introduced the TAG Heuer Carrera, named after the grueling Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico. One of TAG Heuer's most famous motorsport associations is with the Monaco watch. Introduced in 1969, the TAG Heuer Monaco gained status when it adorned the wrist of Steve McQueen in the film "Le Mans”, that was later on reintroduced this year as a limited-edition, “TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue Caliber 11”.

In a testament to its commitment to motorsport, TAG Heuer continues to honor racing legacies. One such tribute is the collaboration with “Bamford Watch Department” renowned for its expertise in personalizing steel sports watches from major watch brands, and Team Ikuzawa, where they've introduced a limited-edition watch. The “TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Team Ikuzawa by Bamford” paying homage to Japanese racing heritage, blending precision engineering with horological art. 

The collaboration draws its inspiration from the legacy of Tetsu Ikuzawa, a renowned racing driver whose illustrious career was marked by pivotal victories and later, his role as a celebrated team owner. Tetsu's journey began uniquely, born in an artistic family, he ventured into the world of racing by participating in a motorcycle race at the age of 15. Despite finishing last, his determination earned him the "Fighting Spirit Award," an apt start to a career that later on would define the essence of resilience and tenacity in motorsport.

In 1963, Tetsu Ikuzawa made a pivotal transition from two wheels to four, marking a new chapter in his racing career. He joined forces with "Prince Motor Company" and entered the first Japanese Grand Prix for sports cars at Suzuka. This bold move saw him behind the wheel of the Skyline Sport Coupe, a decision that would shape the course of motorsport history.

Next year, Tetsu continued his journey with the team and competed in a race that would propel the Skyline GT into the legendary status it holds today. This event marked the beginning of the Skyline GT's  dynasty, leaving an indelible mark on the world of racing.

Throughout the years, Tetsu competed in various races including the British Formula Three Championship in 1966. In 1967, Tetsu's racing journey took a turn when “Stirling Moss” introduced him to Motor Racing Stables. By the following year, Tetsu had the privilege of competing under the banner of Frank Williams, marking a milestone in his racing career.

Tetsu's enduring passion for motorsport led to the foundation of "i&i Racing Development", an entity that has evolved into the renowned “Team Ikuzawa”. The team's distinctive red and white livery, adorned with the image of a red-crowned crane, is a tribute to the family's artistic roots and serves as a symbol of their unique artistic inclination.

Mai Ikuzawa, the daughter of Tetsu Ikuzawa, took a different path but seamlessly blends her heritage and automotive passion with a keen sense of fashion. Collaborating with the British watch customizer, and motorsport enthusiast, George Bamford. The culmination of these diverse influences and talents results in the creation we witness today, the “TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph x Team Ikuzawa by Bamford”.

The watch showcases a brushed and polished stainless steel case, topped by a domed sapphire crystal that benefits from double anti-reflective treatment on both its front and back. It boasts a polished bezel and possesses dimensions measuring 42mm in diameter and 14.3mm in thickness, with a lug-to-lug distance of 48.6mm. The timepiece is equipped with a classic crown and pump-style pushers, and it offers a water resistance rating of 100 meters.

The dial elegantly presents a color scheme of white and red, a tribute to both Japan and Ikuzawa's racing livery. The white opaline dial features a 60-second scale, a 12-hour counter situated at 9 o'clock, a minute counter located at 3 o'clock, accompanied by red-filled hour and minute hands, and a red lacquered seconds hand with white Super-LumiNova, and a date window at 6 o’clock. The numerals and logos on the dial rendered in this vibrant red hue, adding lively touch to the timepiece.

Powering the watch is the in-house automatic Caliber Heuer 02, that operates at 28,800 vph (4Hz), and offers 80 hours of power reserve. The watch comes with a 3 row steel bracelet with folding clasp and double safety push buttons with TAG Heuer shield, and an additional white fabric strap with red marking “Team Ikuzawa '' printed and Hook-and-loop Velcro. Priced at CHF 6,250 which is equivalent to AED 26,000.

 For more information Please visit TAG Heuer official website.