MP4-12C Chronograph by TAG Heuer and McLaren

The TAG Heuer Mastering Speed Exhibition at Halle Secheron in Geneva played host today to the McLaren MP4-12C car, as well to the new TAG Heuer MP4-12C limited edition chronograph watch. The timepiece will be produced in a limited run of just 1,000 units and will become available for purchase through McLaren later in 2011.

The carbon dial of the wristwatch is inspired by the 12C’s carbon fibre MonoCell – an engineering solution inspired by the team’s Formula 1 car chassis.

The watch’s movement is visible through sapphire inserts on the dial, revealing the “engine” behind the watch face. Of particular use to pilots and track drivers, the Flyback function allows the chronograph to be reset to zero, and immediately restarted by pressing only once on the push button.

A specific instrument used in motor sports, the tachymeter, indicates what distance is travelled, and the chronograph records the time intervals between two locations. Other details reflect the 12C further, such as the Titanium case that minimises weight and the alcantara leather strap that was inspired by the 12C’s interior materials.

The orange superluminescent markers on the hands and the orange stitching of the bracelet reflect McLaren’s historic and traditional road and racing car colour. The final detail comes with the McLaren speed mark logo on the watch’s crown.

“I love watches and have always wanted to design one myself. The TAG Heuer MP4-12C Chronograph was a particularly interesting project as we have combined our passion for precision technology, engineering and performance and included some of the most outstanding design features and materials that can be found in the MP4-12C,” stated Frank Stephenson, Design Director McLaren Automotive.