August 26th 2024
Since its debut in 2015, the TAG Heuer Connected has made significant strides in the luxury smartwatch market. While some traditional watch enthusiasts might find the concept of a “luxury smartwatch” perplexing, the genre has gained popularity among those who desire the functionality of a smartwatch with the elevated experience associated with high-end timepieces. The latest 2024 release of the TAG Heuer Connected takes this concept to a new level, as the brand collaborates with Oracle Red Bull Racing to create a themed version of its 45mm Connected Calibre E4 smartwatch. This timepiece is designed for die-hard fans of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, combining luxury with a passion for motorsport.
A Thematic Approach to Luxury Smartwatches
The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 45MM x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition is not the first time a luxury brand has created a smartwatch for sports fans. Hublot has previously launched several versions of its Big Bang E smartwatch catering to soccer enthusiasts. However, these thematic luxury smartwatches are often misunderstood. Rather than being alternatives to entry-level models, they are typically purchased by affluent individuals who already own multiple luxury watches. For these buyers, sports-themed models offer an affordable way to enhance their spectator experience while indulging their horological passions.
Design and Features of the Red Bull Racing Edition
Aside from the strap, which prominently features Red Bull’s team colors, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 45MM x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition is largely identical to the standard 45mm titanium models. The case is crafted from grade 2 titanium with a black DLC finish, complemented by a black ceramic bezel. The watch also includes a sapphire crystal, DLC-finished stainless steel crown and pushers, and a titanium caseback featuring a PPG sensor and charging ports. It boasts 50 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for fitness tracking and sports activities.
Strap and Customization Options
The Red Bull Racing Edition comes with a bi-material strap that combines a rubber internal structure with a leather exterior. The strap features dark blue with a red stripe, echoing Red Bull’s team colors, and is secured with a titanium folding clasp. For those who prefer a subtler look, an additional black rubber strap is included, which can be easily swapped using TAG Heuer’s quick-release system.
Advanced Technology and F1-Themed Features
Powered by Wear OS by Google, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 45MM x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition includes a suite of sensors such as a heart rate monitor, compass, accelerometer, gyroscope, microphone, and barometer. It offers TAG Heuer’s usual array of apps for wellness and activity tracking, alongside specialized software for sports like running and golf. The watch’s battery life lasts about a day, shorter than that of competitors like the Apple Watch Ultra or Garmin, but its appeal lies in its exclusive F1-themed watch faces and applications.
Exclusive Red Bull Racing Experience
The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 45MM x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition comes with four F1-themed watch faces, with the standout being the “Session” face. This face features flags representing the countries where the season’s Formula 1 races will take place and updates throughout the year to highlight the current race location. The Oracle Red Bull Racing application enhances the experience further by providing countdowns, team images, race results, and continuous updates about the team.
A Must-Have for Red Bull Super-Fans
Priced at $1,950 USD, the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 45MM x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition is a luxury smartwatch dedicated to Red Bull F1 enthusiasts. As rumors circulate about TAG Heuer becoming the Official Timekeeper of Formula One in 2025, this collaboration could pave the way for future F1-themed TAG Heuer smartwatches, celebrating a new partnership in the world of motorsport.