TAG Heuer launches the Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition, marking the third collaboration between TAG Heuer and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s streetwear brand, fragment. Only 500 units will be produced, the Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition is a limited edition version of TAG Heuer’s glass box Carrera that has been reinterpreted using fragment’s minimalist aesthetic to merge TAG Heuer’s motorsport heritage with today’s sense of restraint.
Hiroshi Fujiwara (the “godfather” of streetwear) started fragment in Tokyo based on the idea of balancing familiar elements of design with new perspectives. This same philosophy is being applied to TAG Heuer’s iconic design for the Carrera chronograph, using contrasting materials and details to create a distinct look.
The Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition uses a black opalin dial that is paired with a white curved flange to establish contrast across the face of the timepiece. The custom date disc includes the numerals 1 and 11 that are designed to resemble fragment’s lightning bolt logo. The steel beads-of-rice bracelet with black PVD coated center links provides a vintage structure that is combined with a modern edge. While the vintage-style textured profile of the original bracelet remains intact, it now incorporates a more modern finish.
The Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition is powered by the in-house Calibre TH20-00 which stores up to 80 hours of power reserve thanks to its self-winding mechanism. Through the sapphire caseback you can see blackened TAG Heuer and fragment logos etched into the rotor, and framed by an engraved Victory Wreath that is a nod to Jack Heuer’s tradition of awarding watches to racing winners.
Fujiwara’s success was due in large part to the fact that he brought together seemingly disparate cultures – from Tokyo’s underground music scenes to collaborative partnerships that defined what we consider to be modern design culture. In partnering with TAG Heuer, Fujiwara is bringing together two worlds – Swiss horology and Japanese streetwear – that share a commonality in terms of their commitment to precision and design that is purposeful.
The glassbox case of the Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition allows the design of the dial to take center stage visually because of the domed sapphire crystal and clean lines of the glassbox case. Rather than being prominent, the fragment lightning bolt logo has been incorporated in a way that is subtle yet evident, continuing the theme of restraint.
The Carrera Chronograph x fragment Limited Edition is available at TAG Heuer boutiques and authorized retailers. As a result of the 500-unit production run, the timepiece has the potential to become a collector’s item within the horological community and the streetwear community alike, as a result of the cultural impact that Fujiwara has had and the motorsports heritage of TAG Heuer.
