A New Facelift for the Aquaracer
Just two years after its major 2022 overhaul, the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 is getting another exciting update. Previously, the Aquaracer received new dials, movements, and case and bracelet designs, putting it on solid ground against its competitors. Now, TAG Heuer introduces further enhancements with reduced case sizes, upgraded movements, and stunning new dials for the Aquaracer Professional 300 Date and the Aquaracer Professional 300 GMT.
Slimmer Cases and Upgraded Movements
Building on the 2022 Aquaracer 300 Date and Aquaracer 300 GMT, the latest models feature slimmer cases. The case size has been reduced from 43mm to 42mm, with the Date model at 12mm thick and the GMT model at 13.45mm. These dimensions are impressive given their 300m water resistance. Both models retain the distinctive 12-sided dive and GMT bezels, complete with lumed ceramic inserts matching the dial colors. Each watch is equipped with a sapphire crystal and a solid caseback featuring a diving helmet design.
Dial and Strap Options
The new Aquaracers are available with either a fitted rubber strap or a bracelet, both featuring TAG Heuer’s fine adjustment clasp system. However, there is no quick-release mechanism for easy strap changes. The black and blue divers, along with the blue GMT, can be paired with rubber straps, while the green models do not offer this option. Despite this, opting for a bracelet remains a practical choice.
Exciting Dial Updates
The dial design sees significant changes, moving away from the basic garage door embossing to an intricate wave pattern, similar to the 36mm Aquaracer 300s. This new pattern adds a dynamic touch to the watch. The dive models come in green, black, and blue, while the GMTs are available in blue and green. The dial diameter has been reduced, allowing for a more seamless date placement at 6 o’clock without an awkward lume pip. The dials and bezel triangles feature Super-LumiNova lume, and the date cyclops is placed on the underside of the crystal.
Refined Handset and Improved Movements
The handset has also been refined. The hour hand is now beefier with a line that echoes the brand’s logo, and the minute hand has been extended to reach the edge of the chapter ring, filled with contrasting blue lume. On the GMT model, the minute hand has matching lume, with contrasting elements on the GMT and bezel triangles. This improves legibility and adds dynamic light play on the wrist.
The new Aquaracer models feature automatic manufacture calibres TH31-00 (Date) and TH31-03 (GMT), replacing the previous ETA-based Calibre 5 and Calibre 7. These movements, a result of collaboration with Sellita’s AMT customization, offer an impressive 80-hour power reserve, COSC-certified chronometer accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per day, and a 5-year warranty.
Conclusion: A Welcome Update
This unexpected yet welcome update further enhances the appeal of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer. With its engaging dial, improved date execution, and superior movement, the Aquaracer stands out as a strong contender in the luxury dive watch market. The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional GMT Date is priced at CHF 3,700 on a rubber strap and CHF 3,900 on a bracelet, while the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 GMT is priced at CHF 3,900 on a rubber strap and CHF 4,100 on a bracelet. Compared to similar models from Breitling, Omega, and Rolex, the Aquaracer offers excellent value for its specifications and design.