Same But Different

Reinvigorating classic designs is a well-treaded path within horology. The trick lies in adding a fresh appeal while staying faithful to the essence of the original

- Evigan Xiao

SOME THINGS ARE DESTINED to endure in style. Like white tees and blue jeans, wellcut suits, oxfords polished to a mirror shine. Watches, it seems, are no exception. Classic examples stand the test of time and maintain unassailable reputations as works of art. But every so often, it becomes essential to inject “new blood” into the collection.

That said, revitalising a classic design can be tricky business akin to walking a tightrope. Play it too safe, and you don’t elicit enough excitement. At the other end of the spectrum, excessive displays of bravado often result in disaster. Like any high-wire artiste will confirm, you need to know where to push forward and when to pull back.

With watches, the devil is in the details. Even the tiniest deviation from the established norm comes under intense scrutiny. But there is some measure of comfort here. Improvements are rarely superfluous. For example, a larger case improves legibility, while a screw-down crown reduces the risk of water damage.

Of course, any improvement in aesthetics is a welcome bonus. If necessity is the mother of invention, then it would also be where the spirit of innovation calls home.

TAG Heuer Carrera SportChronograph 44mm Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic

The Carrera occupies a special place in the hearts of brand loyalists, and not only in TAG Heuer’s archives. The original Carrera chronograph debuted in 1963 and became an iconic representation of the then-Heuer brand, thanks to its sporty motor racing-inspired design and good legibility.