Few watches carry the motorsport pedigree of the TAG Heuer Carrera. Born in 1963 and named after the perilous Carrera Panamericana race, this chronograph has long been a benchmark for precision, legibility, and understated elegance. The Carrera Chronograph Automatic 39mm (CBS2216.BA0048) is a contemporary reinterpretation of that legacy—compact, refined, and packed with the kind of engineering that makes it a serious contender in the luxury chronograph space.
But does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down.
A Clean, Timeless Execution
At 39mm, this Carrera sits in a sweet spot—large enough to feel substantial but restrained enough to avoid the bulk of some modern chronographs. The stainless steel case is impeccably finished, with a mix of polished and brushed surfaces that catch the light just right. The bezel is slim, allowing the dial to take center stage, and the lugs curve downward for a snug fit on the wrist.
The Dial: Clarity Meets Heritage
The silver sunburst dial is a masterclass in legibility. Applied indices with crisp lume, dauphine hands, and two recessed subdials (30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, small seconds at 9) maintain a balanced, symmetrical layout. The lack of a date window keeps things clean—a deliberate choice that purists will appreciate.
The red accents on the chronograph seconds hand and “Carrera” script nod to the model’s racing roots without feeling gimmicky. It’s a subtle touch that adds just enough sportiness to an otherwise dressy chronograph.
The Bracelet: Comfort with a Vintage Vibe
The H-link bracelet is a standout, offering a retro aesthetic with modern comfort. The alternating brushed and polished links give it a premium feel, and the butterfly clasp ensures a seamless look. That said, those with larger wrists might find the lack of micro-adjustments a minor drawback.
Movement: The Beating Heart
Powering this Carrera is the Calibre Heuer 02, an in-house automatic movement with an impressive 80-hour power reserve. This is a big deal—many chronographs in this price range still rely on modified ETA or Sellita movements, but TAG Heuer’s commitment to in-house development pays off here.
Performance & Usability
- Accuracy: Expect +/- 4 seconds per day, in line with COSC standards (though it’s not officially certified).
- Functionality: The chronograph starts, stops, and resets with satisfying tactile feedback. The pushers are screw-down, adding a layer of water resistance (100m, so light swimming is fine).
- Rotor Noise: Some wearers note a faint rotor sound, but it’s far from intrusive.
While it may not have the haute horlogerie finishing of a Lange or Patek, the movement is robust, reliable, and visible through the sapphire caseback—a nice touch for those who appreciate mechanical artistry.
Wearability & Versatility
This is where the 39mm Carrera truly shines. It’s slim (12.9mm thick) and light enough for all-day wear, yet substantial enough to feel like a proper tool watch. The dial transitions effortlessly from office wear to weekend casual, especially on the steel bracelet.
For those who prefer a dressier look, swapping to a leather strap (TAG offers excellent OEM options) transforms it into a refined companion for suits. Conversely, a perforated racing strap leans into its motorsport DNA.
Market Position: Who Should Buy This?
The Carrera Chronograph Automatic 39mm sits in a competitive space. At its price point (~$5,500), it goes up against:
- Tudor Black Bay Chrono – More tool-watch aesthetic, but thicker.
- Omega Speedmaster Reduced – Vintage charm, but older movement.
- Breitling Chronomat 38 – Similar size, but bolder styling.
What sets the Carrera apart is its balance of heritage, wearability, and modern mechanics. It’s not trying to be the flashiest or most complicated chronograph—it’s a thoughtfully designed, well-executed watch that does everything right.
Who It’s For:
- Collectors who appreciate TAG’s racing heritage.
- Professionals wanting a versatile luxury chronograph.
- Watch enthusiasts looking for an in-house movement at this price.
Who Might Look Elsewhere:
- Those needing a date complication.
- Buyers who prefer ultra-thin chronographs (like the Zenith Elite).
- Fans of highly decorated movements (consider Grand Seiko or Glashütte).
Is It Worth It?
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Automatic 39mm is a near-perfect evolution of a classic. It nails the fundamentals—size, legibility, movement quality—while staying true to its motorsport roots.
Pros:
✔ Perfect 39mm case size for most wrists
✔ Clean, symmetrical dial with no date clutter
✔ In-house Heuer 02 movement with 80-hour power reserve
✔ Excellent bracelet and overall finishing
Cons:
✖ No micro-adjustments on the clasp
✖ Some may prefer a COSC-certified movement
✖ Rotor noise is faint but present
The Bottom Line:
If you’ve been searching for a versatile, well-proportioned chronograph with legitimate horological credentials, this Carrera deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s not the cheapest option, nor the most exclusive—but it’s one of the most balanced luxury chronographs available today
Final Thought: The Carrera has always been about speed, precision, and elegance. This 39mm iteration proves that even after six decades, TAG Heuer still knows how to build a chronograph that excites.