SPORT TAG Heuer Makes A Triumphant Return as Official Timekeeper of Formula 1®'s Official Timekeeper
1 min
Centigraph HL205
TAG Heuer’s journey in motorsport began long before the roar of modern engines. In 1911, the brand introduced the Time of Trip, a precision dashboard chronograph designed for automobiles and airplanes. By the 1930s, its revolutionary Autavia dashboard timers were indispensable for racers and aviators alike, setting the stage for TAG Heuer’s later dominance in timekeeping.
The 1960s marked a turning point. TAG Heuer became the first watchmaker to grace a Formula 1® car, a partnership that laid the foundation for its enduring influence in the sport. This pioneering spirit culminated in the 1971 debut of the Le Mans Centigraph, a timing system so advanced it could record times to 1/1000th of a second—a game-changing innovation for the Ferrari team, which relied on it for split-second race strategies.
Jean Campiche in Monaco in 1974
A Heritage of Timing the Best
TAG Heuer’s presence in Formula 1® reached iconic status in 1971, immortalized by Steve McQueen’s character in the film Le Mans, who sported the mythical TAG Heuer Monaco chronograph. The partnership between TAG Heuer and Ferrari in the 1970s brought a new level of sophistication to racing, with legendary drivers wearing TAG Heuer timepieces as symbols of precision and excellence.
As technology evolved, TAG Heuer’s commitment to motorsport never wavered. The introduction of electronic timing systems in the 1980s revolutionized race monitoring, enabling unparalleled accuracy. Jean Campiche, a key figure in this transformation, spearheaded the development of innovative timing solutions that would become indispensable to the sport.
Related Articles
The Initial Tenure: 1992-2003
From 1992 to 2003, TAG Heuer served as the Official Timekeeper for Formula 1®, overseeing over 175 Grand Prix events without a single contested time—a testament to its precision and reliability. During this era, TAG Heuer introduced advanced timing technologies, including transponder systems that automatically identified cars and recorded lap times, setting new standards in the sport.
-
The Heuer Chronograph, Ref. 11.401
From Past to Present: TAG Heuer’s F1 Renaissance
Fast-forward to the 21st century: TAG Heuer’s relationship with F1 racing has entered a new era. Collaborations with teams like Oracle Red Bull Racing showcased its ability to adapt and innovate. TAG Heuer became a key sponsor of the team, timing some of the sport’s most electrifying moments, including Max Verstappen’s record-breaking performances.
A Future of Innovation
As TAG Heuer resumes its official timekeeping duties, it brings a legacy of precision and a forward-thinking approach to technology. The Maison’s history of innovation, from the Mikrograph stopwatch in 1916 to modern advancements, positions it to enhance the accuracy and excitement of Formula 1®. A celebration of TAG Heuer’s heritage, this return signals a new era of excellence in motorsport timekeeping.
