TAG Heuer New Series Aquaracer Professional 200
Image: TAG Heuer
When TAG Heuer unveiled the Aquaracer Professional 300 Naomi Osaka Limited Edition, we predicted that a new series of Aquaracer watches would be released this year, and we were right. The Aquaracer Professional 200, now an all-terrain watch, is the same watch that we covered extensively last year, but it has also been updated for its new role. TAG Heuer refers to the Aquaracer as a luxury tool watch, and the Aquaracer Professional 300 may be too big for the job.
This explains why the Aquaracer Professional 200 has a 200-meter water resistance rating rather than the 300-meter rating of the 2021 range. As a result of this change, the Aquaracer Professional 200 (hereafter referred to as the Aquaracer 200) is now available in two smaller sizes: 40mm and 30mm. The Aquaracer 200 models are also slimmer, though TAG Heuer does not specify this in the press release.
Professional 200 40mm (Silver dial). Image: TAG Heuer
Professional 200 30mm (Black dial). Image: TAG Heuer
Professional 200 40mm (Black dial). Image: TAG Heuer
Professional 200 30mm (Silver). Image: TAG Heuer
The Aquaracer 200, according to TAG Heuer, is a “singular design in its own right,” with 11 references to back it up. The aforementioned water-resistance rating, unidirectional bezel (now entirely in steel, with no ceramic insert), and caseback engraving are all shared features. The scaphander diving helmet was featured on the Aquaracer 300, but this one has a compass, which is more in line with its all-terrain identity.
In addition, the watch does not have any functions that are specific to any sport or activity. Instead, it exudes an urbane utilitarian charm, ideal for the commuter who changes into cycling gear and pedals home from work — or who doesn’t bother changing at all. The Aquaracer 200 is built to withstand the heat and sweat.
Image: TAG Heuer
“If you look at the Aquaracer Professional 200, you can see our intention to create an everyday watch that still has the tool watch look that TAG Heuer lovers came to expect from the icons of the past, such as the Reference 844, 1000 and 2000 Series models. It’s an evolution of all this history,” said TAG Heuer Creative Director Guy Bove.
One thing to keep in mind when it comes to details and movements is that the 40mm and 30mm models have distinct characteristics. Two automatic and two quartz options are available for the larger size, while two automatic and five quartz options are available for the 30mm model. Fumé dials and date windows (no longer with magnifier) distinguish all automatics, while all 40mm versions have the same indices and hands (in contrast with the Aquaracer 300). In 30mm, the indices and dial colors vary greatly, with diamonds and mother-of-pearl thrown in for good measure.