Introduced during Jean-Claude Biver’s tenure, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Skeleton reference CBG2A50.FC6450 utilizes a modular 45mm case construction that pairs black PVD-coated steel with solid 18k 5N rose gold lugs, forming a direct visual contrast against the fixed, matte black ceramic tachymeter bezel. Beneath the sapphire crystal, a skeletonized dial featuring matching rose gold sub-dial rings exposes the internal mechanics of the timepiece.
The skeletonized dial exposes the in-house Calibre Heuer 02, an internal mechanical upgrade that replaced the 6-9-12 layout of the preceding Heuer 01. Evolving from the brand's delayed CH80 project, this automatic movement incorporates a traditional column wheel and a vertical clutch for highly regulated chronograph engagement.
From its founding in 1860, Heuer established a reputation for precision built on foundational innovations. Edouard Heuer's 1887 patent for the oscillating pinion remains a critical component in modern chronographs, while the 1916 "Mikrograph," the first stopwatch capable of measuring 1/100th of a second, secured the brand's role as an official Olympic timekeeper. This early focus on accuracy naturally led to a deep-seated connection with motorsports, where the brand's dashboard timers became essential equipment for rally drivers, laying the groundwork for an identity forged on the racetrack.
The brand's ties with racing was immortalized in the 1960s with a trio of legendary chronographs: the Carrera, Autavia, and the avant-garde Monaco. The Monaco, with its distinctive square case, became an icon on the wrist of Steve McQueen in the film Le Mans and was one of the first watches to house the groundbreaking Calibre 11 automatic chronograph movement. After its acquisition by Techniques d'Avant Garde (TAG) in 1985, the brand solidified its legendary status through a decades-long partnership with Formula 1.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great, Minor Visible Wear Production: 2021 Contents: Watch and Box Genre: Sports Chronograph
Size: 45mm Thickness: approx. 16mm Lug Width: approx. 22.5mm
Case: Steel and 18K 5N rose gold, brushed and mirrored finish, minor wear Bezel: Black ceramic tachymeter insert, minor wear Dial: Black skeletonized dial, applied rose gold-plated markers Hands: Rose gold-plated baton hands
Crown: 18K 5N rose gold and rubber, push/pull crown and pushers, minor wear Crystal: Sapphire crystal, domed, minor wear Bracelet: Black rubber and alligator-effect leather strap, minor wear Caseback: Steel exhibition caseback, screw-down, minor wear Movement: Automatic Chronograph Caliber: HEUER 02