Tag Heuer has unveiled a new version of its popular Carrera Chronograph "Glassbox" featuring a captivating smoky purple dial. This gradient effect, transitioning from a deep purple at the centre to a darker shade towards the edges, adds a unique touch to the classic chronograph design. Alongside this striking colourway, the brand has also introduced a limited-edition 42mm version equipped with a tourbillon complication.

Both models retain the signature "Glassbox" aesthetic with its prominent domed sapphire crystal. The 39mm version maintains the classic Carrera proportions with horizontally brushed sides, polished bevels, and a comfortable lug-to-lug measurement. The 42mm tourbillon model offers a slightly larger presence on the wrist.

The smoky purple dial is a standout feature. Its metallic sheen and sunburst finish, combined with the contrasting black azurage sub-dials, create a visually appealing and balanced look. The rhodium-plated applied indexes and hands provide excellent legibility against the darker background.

This version features a date window at 6 o'clock, neatly integrated within the sub-seconds dial. It houses the in-house TH20-00 automatic chronograph movement, offering an 80-hour power reserve and equipped with a column wheel and vertical clutch. The movement is visible through the sapphire case back, showcasing intricate details like Geneva stripes and a skeletonized rotor.

The 42mm model forgoes the date window in favour of a prominent tourbillon cage at 6 o'clock, serving as the running seconds indicator. Powered by the TH20-09 movement, it shares the same core architecture as the TH20-00 but with modifications to accommodate the tourbillon complication, resulting in a 65-hour power reserve. This limited-edition piece is produced in a series of 200 units.

Both watches come fitted with a black perforated calfskin strap featuring contrasting purple stitching and lining. The polished stainless steel folding clasp with a push-button closure adds a touch of refinement. The overall finishing of the watches demonstrates a high level of attention to detail, with polished surfaces and meticulous attention to the case and bracelet.

In the Tag Heuer Carrera "Glassbox" models, the bezel is not visible from the front.

The "Glassbox" refers to the significantly domed sapphire crystal that covers the entire top of the watch case, essentially replacing the traditional bezel.

This creates a unique visual effect where the dial appears to be more prominent and the watch face seems larger. So the watch is Bezel-less while still having a similar bezel register effect.

The new Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph "Glassbox" with its smoky purple dial is certainly a bold move. While the unique colorway undoubtedly grabs attention, its reception has been somewhat divided. Some find the purple a bit too "out there" questioning its long-term appeal. Design-wise, criticisms have surfaced regarding the hour markers and the prominent pump pushers, which some feel are overly bulky on a 39mm watch.

Tag has big plans with its lines, specially after becoming the official F1 Sponsor and this is likely one of the steps into leverage a broader motorsports line.

Tag Heuer has a long and storied history, and their Carrera line is a cornerstone of their brand. If you're curious to learn more about Tag Heuer, we've got you covered. Here, you can explore how Tag Heuer stacks up against the giant Rolex. Dive into some of the most popular vintage Tag Heuer models to see the brand's rich heritage

And if Formula 1 racing gets your heart pumping, check out our articles on Tag Heuer's return as official timekeeper. and their newest Formula 1 Chronograph for 2025