Watches By the Light of the Lume

The arrival of the Aquaracer Professional 300 series earlier this year marked the latest chapter in the history of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer series, a watch that traces its origins back to 1982. Then called the 2000 series, the watch was the final series launched under the stewardship of Jack Heuer and continued the legacy of TAG Heuer diving watches from the late 1970s that began with the reference 844. Included in the 2021 Aquaracer collection is a limited-edition model that pays tribute to the reference 844, but not only: the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Night Diver.

TAG Heuer first explored this idea in 1983 when it launched a range of dive watches with a phosphorescent dial, which the catalogue at the time noted was “Perfect for wear at any time. Even when diving at night.” Just like the 2021 Night Diver, these watches were offered with a range of case finishes, including a khaki-coloured case and a full black case. The similarities don’t end there, because the dial layout of the 2021 Night Diver is also inspired by the 1983 range, featuring eight black circular hour markers, three phosphorous hour markers and a space for the date window occupying the 12th position.

While the dial of the 2021 Aquaracer is similarly distinctive as the bold 1980s original, there are a few modern features on the newer watch that every secret agent would appreciate. One of the nicest touches is the newly designed black rubber strap, which is teamed with TAG Heuer’s new folding clasp design that allows for micro adjustment. The way that this works is by squeezing the two push-buttons on the side of the clasp, which allows the clasp to slide to a perfect fit. It’s easy to use and adds a lot of practicality for the summer months when you want a more relaxed fit on your watch. The new rubber strap design is being progressively rolled out across the full Aquaracer range, as an alternative, or addition, to the bracelet. And while the original 1980s watches were typically fitted with quartz battery-powered movements, the 2021 Aquaracer Night Diver features a Swiss-made Calibre 5 automatic movement.

As TAG Heuer continue to develop the Aquaracer series, it’s encouraging to note how many of the new watches draw inspiration from the famous dive watches of the 1970s and 80s, whether it be the Night Diver, the 844 Tribute Edition, or indeed the choice of bright Orange on the recent Bamford Aquaracer, TAG Heuer is recognising that it’s not just the Monaco, Autavia and Carrera series that get to celebrate their heritage. TAG Heuer has a rich history of innovative dive watches, with the Night Diver being the latest Aquaracer to adapt the best aspects of classic models to what is a thoroughly modern dive watch.