TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph: Rattrapante Arrives at the Carrera Family
TAG Heuer Expands Its High-End Offerings with Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph
At LVMH Watch Week 2026, TAG Heuer made headlines by bringing its most refined complication — the rattrapante or split-seconds chronograph — to the Carrera family for the first time ever. Building on the success of 2024's Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph, the new TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds Chronograph pairs the exotic movement with a more restrained, wearable design that expands the brand's high-end halo offerings.
TH81-01 Movement: A Split-Seconds Masterpiece
The Carrera Split-Seconds is powered by the TH81-00 automatic rattrapante chronograph movement, developed in partnership with movement specialist Vaucher. This is the next iteration of the TH81-00 found inside the Monaco Split-Seconds, with cosmetic updates including less extreme skeletonization that gives more room for TAG Heuer's meticulously hand-engraved checkered-flag finishing pattern.
The movement offers a smooth 36,000 bph beat rate, a generous 65-hour power reserve (dropping to 55 hours with the chronograph engaged), and the signature split-seconds functionality. This allows wearers to stop one of its twin chronograph seconds hands for a reading while the other continues to run, before "catching up" at the press of a pusher.
Glassbox Case in Grade 5 Titanium
At 42mm wide, the Carrera Split-Seconds features a nearly all-new Grade 5 titanium case. The familiar sharp, inwardly beveled lugs remain, but the finishing shifts to emphasize strong linear brushing over the usual bright facets. A new polished chamfer along the case sides adds visual separation and a touch of elegance.
The 9 o'clock side reveals the rattrapante pusher disguised as a broad, low-slung three-part case flange, complete with flowing guards. On the 3 o'clock side, streamlined teardrop-style pushers replace the traditional pump pushers. The case is completed with a "Glassbox" sapphire crystal caseback, though the exotic construction limits water resistance to 30 meters.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Movement | TH81-00 automatic rattrapante |
| Beat Rate | 36,000 bph (5Hz) |
| Power Reserve | 65 hours (55 with chronograph) |
| Complication | Split-seconds chronograph |
| Case Material | Grade 5 titanium |
| Case Size | 42mm wide |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters |
| MSRP | $127,000 USD |
Dial Design: Skeletonized Yet Legible
The dial nearly all Carrera hallmarks are preserved, from the split applied indices on a transparent sapphire base to the three-register layout and tall wave-shaped chapter ring. Dynamic red accents on the chronograph subdials and matching red main chronograph seconds hand add visual energy, while the skeletonized movement bridges below provide a sharp, contemporary mix of linear brushing, polished anglage, and matte blasting.
FAQ
What is a rattrapante chronograph?
A rattrapante (split-seconds) chronograph features two chronograph seconds hands. One can be stopped independently to record an intermediate time while the other continues running. When released, the stopped hand "catches up" to the running hand.
How does the Carrera Split-Seconds compare to the Monaco Split-Seconds?
The Carrera Split-Seconds offers a more restrained design with less extreme skeletonization, a slightly more conventional case shape, and a lower price point of $127,000 versus the Monaco's higher positioning.
When will the TAG Heuer Carrera Split-Seconds be available?
The watch will be available through authorized dealers starting June 2026.
Sources: aBlogtoWatch (January 2026), TAG Heuer Official