When mentioning TAG Heuer, it is inevitable to touch upon the TAG Heuer Kirium series, which began right before the new millennium and remains to be among the most popular from the Swiss luxury company’s repertoire. The series has introduced to the world some of the most captivating designs TAG Heuer has ever released, all the while packing with admirable features such as water resistance. Kirium also made the distinction of being the first to be released by an independent TAG Heuer, marking an end of an era and the beginning of another in the company’s long and colorful history.
The TAG Heuer Kirium Formula 1 was released a few years after the very first Kirium, and became an homage to racing, hence the name. It was endorsed by prominent drivers, among them David Coulthard, with a promise of 100% precision and a tagline of “What are you made of?” It is a gorgeous, sporty watch that features an analog-digital dial, appearing straightforward when idle but eventually revealing more features when in use. The TAG Heuer Kirium Formula 1 has seen a few releases since then and was part of the series way until 2008.
Compare TAG Heuer Kirium F1 Watch Prices Online
Release date: 2001
Price when reviewed: US$700.00+
Specifications:
- Case Size: 40mm
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Movement: Quartz (Battery) ETA E20.231
- Functions: Date, Day, Rotating Bezel, Chronograph, Second Timezone, Perpetual Calendar, Alarm, Countdown, Backlight
Pros
The TAG Heuer Kirium Formula 1 is a modern-looking watch, even by today’s standards. With its dial that seamlessly combines analog with the functions of a digital chronograph, the watch holds up in design, as well as technical features. These include the alarm, second time zone, dial backlighting, accuracy of 1/100th of a second, and a water resistance capacity that can go as deep as 200 meters, which makes it an attractive watch for athletes as well as laymen. With its scratch and high pressure resistant feature, the high end timepiece will also remain looking brand new for a considerable amount of time. Users have the option to personalize with a rubber strap or a steel bracelet, depending on one’s preference. Regardless, the Kirium Formula 1 feels securely tight around the wrist, even featuring a safety clasp to keep it from slipping.
Cons
Although the watch is smaller than most iconic models, it still is bold and thick, making it quite burdensome to wear when you’re not used to it. The bands in the steel bracelet also take a bit of work when adjusting, and the same can be said for the watch’s ratchet bezel. This disadvantage is more a consequence of the times than a comment on the function of the watch, but one would need extra care in purchasing them as the company has discontinued the line in 2008. It can be hard to differentiate a genuine timepiece from a replica, especially when buying online.
Image credits: Calibre11 (featured image), AJT Watch Company, robattopper, Bernard Watch (article images).
