ashleytee, Author at Ashley Tee

From Motherhood to Watchmaking: My Unexpected Journey

Motherhood and My Watch Habits

The past year has been a whirlwind. Motherhood is exhausting, but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I never pictured myself as a “kid person” before, but now? Every smile from my baby melts me. It’s changed how I see everything—even watches.

For a while, watches took a backseat. Those early months of breastfeeding meant they were more of a hassle than a joy, and I worried about my baby’s comfort with anything bulky on my wrist. Instead, I leaned on my Huawei fitness band—small, light, and perfect for tracking sleep and steps or finding my phone. Occasionally, I’d wear my Casio LTP V-007 (see review here) or G-Shock. Their durability & affordability handled my baby’s curious grabs. Big steel watches? Not anymore—they were a hassle, plus they triggered anxiety while breastfeeding!

Huawei Fitness Band — *small, light, simple – Huawei fitness band 8*

casio g shock gma s2100 — *Casio G-Shock GMA S2100 aka Mini CasiOak*

What’s wild is how my watches on my wrist feels different now. Comfort and practicality rule, and my love for mechanical watches has shifted. I used to adore winding them, but now I crave simplicity—no fuss, no winding, no time setup. My watch journey has evolved, just like I have.

Rethinking Watch Content

This shift got me thinking about my content. Watch reviewing feels different compared to tech, where new gadgets drop constantly. Watches thrill us with subtle updates—smaller sizes or new dial colors. I toyed with reacting to trends I missed, but I’m over-chasing hype. I want to enjoy watches for what they are.

Don’t worry—I’m not ditching reviews! I’ve bought some pieces, and reviews are coming in a few weeks. But I’m also drawn to something deeper: understanding how watches work.

Exploring Watchmaking

My curiosity led me to watchmaking and repair. There’s magic in those tiny gears and springs—a miniature world inside each timepiece. It’s more rewarding than just collecting. I’m no expert (just a busy mom!), but I’ve tinkered—assembling a watch with Namoki Mods and fixing a cracked crystal. Those moments felt like a new connection to my passion.

So, I’ve signed up for online watch repair courses to see where it takes me.

ashley tee watch making — *trying on watchmaking/watch repair will be daunting but exciting!*

What’s Next for AshleyTee

This blog and channel will continue to deliver watch reviews—affordable, carefully picked ones. But I’ll be filming my watchmaking journey, even if it means fumbling with screws.

As you may see, I recently restarted my blog again (making it an active blog this time), and there’s new merch too—mugs and hoodies inspired by clean designs and my space fascination.

Ashley Tee Merch — *Some of my merch, if you want to support – Check them out at ashleytee.com/store!*

Let’s Connect

That’s my story so far—balancing mom life, watches, and learning new skill. What do you think? Any watchmaking tips for a beginner? Drop your thoughts below or on Instagram (@ashley_watches). See you soon!

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DIY Watch Making: Build Your Own Watch with Namoki Mods

Why Choose Namoki Mods’ Sakura Dress Watch Kit?

Namoki Mods offers a wide range of watch parts, from cases to bezels, but their DIY watch-making kits truly stand out. Among their selection, the Sakura Dress Watch kit caught my eye, and it wasn’t just because of its beginner-friendly design.

The real star is the Sakura dial—a stunning, original design that doesn’t mimic or pay homage to other watch brands.

NMK-WK06 DIY Watchmaking Kit: Sakura Dress Watch — *Its intricate, black textured pattern evokes a sense of elegance and individuality, making it a standout choice for anyone who wants a watch that’s uniquely their own.*

Unlike many modding kits that lean into familiar aesthetics inspired by luxury or mainstream watches, the Sakura dial feels fresh and authentic. I was drawn to its bold yet refined look, which feels like a statement piece without trying too hard. Plus, the kit’s all-inclusive nature and customization options sealed the deal.

Here’s why this kit is perfect for beginners:

All-Inclusive: Includes tools, parts, and instructions—no extra purchases needed.
Beginner-Friendly: Pre-cut stems and clear guides make assembly less intimidating.
Customizable: Add your personal touch with optional parts like rotors or straps.

Disclaimer: Namoki Mods provided this kit for free for this collaboration. I received no other compensation, and all opinions are my own.

Unboxing the Sakura Dress Watch Kit

The kit arrived promptly with solid packaging and everything needed to build a watch:

Watch parts (case, dial, hands, movement, crown, strap, etc.)
Tool kit (tweezers, hand pushers, case back opener, etc.)
Warranty and instruction pamphlet

NMK-WK06 DIY Watchmaking Kit: Sakura Dress Watch Toolkit — *Included: Tool kit (tweezers, hand pushers, case back opener, etc.)*

One note: the included movement holder felt a bit flimsy for a beginner like me. I used my own, but I recommend grabbing a sturdier one from Namoki Mods if you don’t have one. Get one from Namoki Mods here.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Sakura Dress Watch

Here’s how I assembled the watch, with tips for first-timers:

Step 1: Attach the Dial to the Movement

Trim the dial’s legs using the provided tweezers
Slot the legs into the movement’s holes for a secure fit.

Screenshot_Ashley Tee_Namoki_Mods_Video — *Pro Tip*: Double-check with the instructions manual & the movement that you are trimming the right legs!

Step 2: Install the Hands (The Tricky Part!)

Rotate the crown clockwise until the date changes, then set the hour hand at 12:00.
Use the hand pushers to attach the hour, minute, and second hands. This took trial and error—be patient!
If the hands don’t sit snugly or misaligned, use the included dial protector and hand remover tool to try again.

*My Experience*: This was the hardest step. The second hand was especially tough, but the kit’s tools (like the dial protector) saved the day.

Step 3: Assemble the Case

Release the stem from the movement.
Place the movement and dial into the case, ensuring it’s dust-free and seated properly.
Insert the pre-cut crown stem (a beginner-friendly feature—no cutting required!).
Tighten the screw-down crown and case back using the case-back opener.

Pro Tip: The screw-down crown feels sturdy and well-made, adding a premium touch.

Step 4: Attach the Strap

The kit includes a quick-release leather strap, which is super convenient.
For my custom Midnight Sakura Tide, I swapped it for a solid end-link bracelet from Namoki Mods because the leather strap was too big for my 150mm wrist.

Customizing into ‘Midnight Sakura Tide’

The standard Sakura Dress Watch is gorgeous, but I wanted to make it extra special. Here’s how I customized it:

Rotor Swap: Replaced the standard rotor with a quirky blue wavy design (note: you’ll need a specific screwdriver for this, available from Namoki).
Transparent Case Back: Switched to a see-through case back to show off the rotor.
Silicone Gasket: Added silicone for a better seal.
Bracelet Strap: Opted for a solid end-link bracelet, which felt surprisingly high-quality compared to my other watches (like my SKX’s Jubilee bracelet).

The result? A stunning watch with a black Sakura dial that I named Midnight Sakura Tide for its unique, personal flair.

Products Used in the Tutorial

Here’s a quick recap of the key components I used:

Want to grab these products? Check out my affiliate links below and use ASHLEY10 or ASHLEY5 for extra savings!

DIY Watchmaking Kit-Sakura-Dress-Complete-Watch-Components — Start your watchmaking journey with this all-inclusive kit.

My Review: The Experience and the Watch

The DIY Experience

Building this watch was a blast! The kit is a fantastic gateway for anyone curious about watchmaking. Highlights:

Complete Kit: Everything you need is included, from rodico for dust removal to a hand remover tool.
Beginner-Friendly: Clear instructions and pre-cut parts make it accessible.
Room for improvement:
While the kit is impressive, a couple of areas could be better. The leather strap felt a bit too large for smaller wrists like mine (150mm), which made it uncomfortable until I switched to a bracelet.

Also, I found the hand pushers confusing—there wasn’t clear guidance on which pusher to use for the hour, minute, or second hands, leading to some trial and error. Labeling the pushers or including a quick guide in the instructions would help beginners like me.

Overall, it’s a perfect first step into watchmaking. The process was rewarding, and I can see why modding enthusiasts love it!

The Watch Itself

I’m obsessed with my Midnight Sakura Tide! The black Sakura dial is gorgeous, the bracelet feels heavy and premium, and the custom rotor adds a playful touch. I’ve been wearing it everywhere, and I love snapping photos of it. Maybe it’s the Ikea Effect—psychology says we value things more when we build them ourselves—but this watch feels special because I made it.

Watch the Full Tutorial

Want to see the process in action? Check out my YouTube video for a detailed look at building the Sakura Dress Watch:

Final Thoughts

Namoki Mods’ Sakura Dress Watch kit is a must-try for anyone interested in DIY watchmaking. It’s fun, approachable, and lets you create a watch you’ll love to wear. Have you tried watch modding, or are you tempted to start? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more DIY projects!

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Artem Straps Review: Premium Sailcloth and NATO Straps Tested

Who Are Artem Straps?

Founded in Adelaide, Australia, Artem Straps crafts high-quality aftermarket watch straps that blend durability, comfort, and luxury. I first spotted them on Instagram, where watch enthusiasts raved about their premium sailcloth designs. With prices ranging from $60 to $200+, Artem targets the premium market, offering straps for most lug widths, including odd sizes like 19mm and 21mm. Their Loop-Less sailcloth strap is their star, but they also provide classic sailcloth and NATO options, as seen in the five straps they sent me:

Green Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap
Black Classic Sailcloth Strap (RM-Style Deployant Clasp)
Navy Blue Classic Sailcloth Strap (Pin & Buckle)
Two NATO Straps (Bond & Navy Blue)

Artem Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap: My Favorite

Priced at $133 (strap only) plus $68 for the Loop-Less Deployant Clasp and $13 for quick-release spring bars, the Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap totals $214. It’s not cheap, but you get premium quality. Here’s my take:

What I Love

Stunning Green Color & Versatility: The green hue pairs beautifully with my Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono’s off-white dial, offering a sporty, casual vibe compared to its mesh bracelet. It’s a fresh, unique look.
Comfortable & Easy Break-In: Softer and thinner than the classic straps, it breaks in quickly and feels great. The deployant clasp, similar to Omega’s, is well-built and simple to use—just press and close.

What I Don’t Love

The standard length is too loose for my 150mm wrist, making it unwearable for me. I wish Artem offered a shorter version for smaller wrists below 160mm. Also, the $13 extra for quick-release spring bars feels unnecessary—make it standard, Artem!

Price: $214 (with clasp and quick-release)

*too loose for my tiny wrist, unfortunately*

UPDATE: ARTEM HAD RELEASED LOOPLESS VERSION FOR THE SMALL WRISTS. VISIT ARTEM STRAPS HERE

Classic Sailcloth Straps: Black and Navy Blue

Next, I tested two Classic Sailcloth Straps in XS size, perfect for my 150mm wrist:

Black with Black Stitching (RM-Style Deployant Clasp): $169
Navy Blue with White Stitching (Pin & Buckle): $96

What I Love

Premium Stitching & Versatility: The white stitching on the navy strap is neat, with no loose threads, signaling quality. Both colors pair well with most watches, from divers to dress pieces.
XS Size for Small Wrists: Unlike the Loop-Less, these fit my wrist perfectly, with no excess tail, creating a clean look. The shorter tail prevents awkward overhang, though it took time to adjust to the “kid’s watch” feel.

Brushed finishing with Artem logo

What I Don’t Love

The RM-Style deployant clasp ($73 extra) is fun to use, with a satisfying spring mechanism, but it protrudes on my small wrist, forming an odd shape instead of wrapping snugly. It fits better on 160mm wrists. The pin-and-buckle version is fine, with brushed Artem-branded hardware, but nothing special.

Artem NATO Straps: Bond & Navy Blue

Finally, I tried two NATO Straps (Bond and Navy Blue), priced at $63 each—the most affordable Artem offering.

What I Love

Surprisingly Soft Material: Smoother and softer than typical OEM NATOs, these feel premium. The hardware is solid, and the stitching is clean, with no loose ends.
Value for Premium Watches: For a $1,000+ watch, a $63 NATO with a 2-year warranty feels proportionate, elevating the watch’s look compared to cheap OEM options.

What I Don’t Love

At $63, they’re pricier than standard OEM NATOs. While the quality justifies it, budget-conscious buyers might hesitate.

Why Choose Artem Straps?

Artem’s premium sailcloth and NATO straps stand out for their craftsmanship, with a 2-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. While pricey, they rival other OEM options offering versatility and durability for high-end watches. The Loop-Less strap is a unique, sporty choice, and the XS sizes cater to smaller wrists—a rare find.

Comparison Table:

Strap Type	Price (USD)	Lug Widths	Best For
Loop-Less Sailcloth	$214	20mm	Larger wrists
Classic Sailcloth (Black)	$169	19–23mm, XS size	Small wrists
Classic Sailcloth (Navy)	$96	19–23mm, XS size	Small wrists
NATO (Bond/Navy Blue)	$63	Various	Budget premium

Final Thoughts

Their premium quality left me impressed, though the price feels better suited for luxury watch owners.

The Loop-Less green strap stands out for its exceptional comfort and sleek style, but it’s a bit large for my smaller wrist—I’d love a more compact size. UPDATE: ARTEM HAD RELEASED LOOPLESS VERSION FOR THE SMALL WRISTS.

The Classic sailcloth straps are a perfect fit, offering a polished look, though the clasp could use slight adjustments for smaller wrists like mine.

The NATO straps surprised me with their softness and durability, a step above standard options.

While the craftsmanship is undeniable, the cost makes these straps a splurge best paired with high-end watches rather than affordable ones like my Seikos. If you’re rocking a luxury timepiece, Artem’s quality might be worth it!

Visit Artem Straps here:

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Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Review: A Classy Dress Watch

What Makes the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Special?

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles is named after the street in Le Locle, Switzerland, where Tissot’s factory has stood since 1907. Le Locle is a watchmaking haven, home to brands like Mido and Zenith, and a world-renowned horology museum I’m dying to visit. This lineup embodies Tissot’s heritage, with the brand’s founding year, 1853, proudly displayed on the dial—a signature that’s practically a logo.

Le Locle Switzerland_Tissot Factory — *source: watchpapst.de*

For me, watches like this are timeless treasures. In a world of high-tech gadgets, the analog charm of a mechanical watch feels like the warm crackle of a vinyl record. The Chemin Des Tourelles delivers that classic, no-fuss elegance, powered by the modern Powermatic 80 movement with an 80-hour power reserve. That means it keeps ticking accurately for three days without being worn—a marvel for us watch enthusiasts!

Fun fact: Non-watch fans might scoff, “Three days? Why not get a quartz?” But for us, 80 hours of mechanical magic is pure joy—like choosing vinyl over Spotify.

Key Specs of the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80

Available in 34mm, 39mm, and 42mm sizes, this lineup suits all wrists. I’m reviewing the 42mm version, kindly loaned by a friend (thanks!). Here’s the breakdown:

Tissot-Chemin-Des-Tourelles_Caseback — *Powermatic 80*

Case Size & Fit: The 42mm case, with a 48.9mm lug-to-lug and 11mm thickness, wears true to size. It’s too big for my 150mm wrist and even loose on my husband’s 160mm wrist, despite the tightest strap adjustment. For smaller wrists, the 39mm is ideal; the 42mm suits larger ones.
Lug Width: At 21mm, the odd size means you’ll need specific straps. The alligator-style strap looks classy but wears out quickly—my old Tissot strap barely lasted a few years. Third-party straps are a must.
Butterfly Clasp: The signed butterfly clasp extends strap life, a thoughtful touch.
Movement: The Powermatic 80 shines through a transparent caseback with gold accents—stunning to admire.
Crown & Case: A signed crown and vertically brushed case add sophistication.

Two Things I Love About This Tissot Dress Watch

1. Gorgeous Blue Sunburst Dial

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles blue dial is a showstopper. Under the domed sapphire crystal, this rich, radiant shade glows in any light. The sunburst effect sparkles from the center, while the textured outer dial and Roman numerals at each quarter exude class. I’m picky about blue dials—Tissot PRX Ice Blue and IWC Portugieser Blue get my vote, but Seiko SNXS77? No thanks. This Tissot nails it.

The dial keeps it simple: pencil hour/minute hands, a ticking second hand (21,600 beats/hour), and a white date window at 6 o’clock. No lume, as expected for a dress watch. It’s a dial you’ll want to stare at all day.

2. Versatile Sizing for Every Wrist

Tissot-Chemin-Des-Tourelles Lineup — *Various sizes available in Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Lineup*

I love that the Chemin Des Tourelles offers multiple sizes. My husband and I once considered matching 34mm and 42mm versions as wedding watches—how romantic! We went with a Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono instead, but Tissot’s flexibility makes this a great pick for couples or anyone.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles_Hamilton Intra-Matic — *Review on Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H here!*

Feature	Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles	Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono
Case Size	42mm	40mm
Lug-to-Lug	48.9mm	49mm
Case Thickness	11mm	14.3mm
Lug Width	21mm	20mm

One Thing I Don’t Love: Reflective Domed Crystal

Here’s my only gripe: the domed sapphire crystal is too reflective for watch photography. As a watch enthusiast, I love snapping outdoor shots, but this crystal shows my phone and face in every pic! Earlier this year in Kuala Lumpur, I struggled to shoot this watch with just natural light—reflections everywhere. I was a newbie photographer then, clueless about glare.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles 42mm T099.407.16.048.00

When our friend loaned the watch again in Jakarta, I used a controlled light setup with a diffuser to get clean shots. The crystal’s not a dealbreaker—it adds visual depth and class—but it’s a challenge for photo buffs like me.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Price and Where to Buy

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80 retails for RM 3,450 (~$837 USD). Boutique stores rarely discount, so shop authorized dealers or Jomashop for better deals. Jomashop offers authentic watches with their own warranty, often at lower prices. Always check warranty details with dealers for peace of mind.

Compare the prices here:

JOMASHOP

AMAZON

Why This Watch Deserves More Hype

Overshadowed by the Tissot PRX, the Chemin Des Tourelles is a hidden gem. Its heritage, stunning dial, and modern movement make it one of the best dress watches under $1000 for collectors and newcomers. If you’re after a timeless, elegant timepiece, this Tissot delivers.

Final Thoughts on the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles

That’s my Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles review! The blue dial and sizing options are winners, but the reflective crystal tests my photography skills. Have you tried this watch? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more watch reviews, check out my Seiko Monster Penguin review or browse my blog for the latest watch guides and stories.

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Casio W217H Review: Why This $20 Digital Watch Won Me Over

1 Comment / Watch Reviews

From Skeptic to Fan: My Casio Journey

I used to roll my eyes at Casio watches. Their digital, resin designs screamed “childish” to me, and if I wanted a digital watch, I’d pick a smartwatch or fitness tracker. But let me tell you, the Casio W217H changed my mind. This affordable gem, gifted by a friend, has earned a spot in my collection. In this review, I’ll share why this $20 black resin digital watch is a fantastic choice and how it stacks up against the iconic Casio F91W.

What Makes the Casio W217H Stand Out?

The Casio W217H might not be as famous as the F91W, but it’s a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, stylish digital watch. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Larger Size: With dimensions of 43.1 × 41.2 × 10.5 mm, the W217H feels more substantial on the wrist compared to the F91W’s 38.2 × 35.2 × 8.5 mm.
Better Backlight: The W217H’s backlight is brighter and clearer, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
Improved Water Resistance: Rated at 50 meters (5 bar), it outperforms the F91W’s 30-meter (3 bar) rating, offering peace of mind for swimming or rainy days.

Feature

Case Size (L x W x H)

Water Resistance

Casio F91W

38.2 x 35.2 x 8.5 mm

30 meters / 3 bar

Casio W217H

43.1 x 41.2 x 10.5 mm

50 meters / 5 bar

Available in multiple color variants, I love the sleek black-on-black version I own. It’s a classic look that pairs well with any outfit. Plus, it comes with standard digital watch features like an alarm and stopwatch, keeping things simple yet functional.

Wearing the Casio W217H: My Experience

As someone who usually gravitates toward analog watches, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed wearing the W217H. Its standout feature? Legibility. Unlike my Hamilton Intra-Matic, which can be tough to read at a glance, the W217H’s digital display lets me check the time instantly, down to the second. It’s a game-changer for quick time checks.

At first, I wondered why I’d wear a digital watch that doesn’t double as a smartwatch. But the more I learned about Casio’s legacy, the more I appreciated the charm of a no-frills timepiece. It’s refreshing to wear a watch that doesn’t bombard me with notifications. The lightweight resin construction also makes it my go-to “beater” watch—perfect for typing on my laptop or casual activities without worrying about scratches.

This watch adds versatility to my collection. It pairs effortlessly with jeans and a t-shirt for a laid-back vibe or even dresses up slightly for semi-casual looks. While I usually prefer heavier watches for a bold wrist presence, the W217H’s featherlight feel is a nice change of pace.

Style and Versatility

The W217H’s minimalist design makes it incredibly versatile. Whether I’m rocking a casual outfit or something a bit dressier, this watch fits right in. Its durability is another plus—made of resin, it can handle daily wear and tear, making it ideal for active lifestyles or as an everyday accessory.

Value for Money

Priced at around $20, the Casio W217H is a steal. You get a durable, functional, and stylish digital watch that rivals more expensive options. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a reliable timepiece to their collection without breaking the bank.

Why Choose the Casio W217H Over the F91W?

While the F91W is a classic with historical significance, the W217H offers practical upgrades. Its larger size, better backlight, and enhanced water resistance make it a more modern choice for everyday wear. If you’re after a digital watch that balances affordability, functionality, and style, the W217H is hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

The Casio W217H has won me over with its simplicity, durability, and unbeatable value. It’s not just a watch—it’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or just need a reliable timepiece, this Casio deserves a spot on your wrist.

Have you tried the Casio W217H? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! And if you enjoyed this review, check out my state of the collection video for more watch content.

Read more another value for money Tank-Like Casio watch here

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Tag Heuer: 15 Innovative Milestones

1. Patented Keyless Winding Mechanism for Pocket Watches

Founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, the brand quickly showcased its innovative spirit, securing patents for a keyless winding mechanism in 1869 and its first chronograph in 1882.

Pocket watch with a winding key — Classic pocket watch with winding key
Source: www.watchrepair.com

Edouard Heuer first patent, keyless winding mechanism for pocket watches — Patented Keyless Winding Mechanism for Pocket Watches in 1869
Source: www.tagheuer.com

2. Invention of the Oscillating Pinion Mechanism

In 1887, TAG Heuer patented the oscillating pinion mechanism, which allowed chronographs to start and stop instantly with the press of a button — a technology still used by many watchmakers today.

Heuer oscillating pinion — Source: www.tagheuer.com

3. Patented Water-Resistant Casing

Continuing its innovative streak, TAG Heuer filed a patent for a water-resistant casing in 1895, further advancing its technological edge.

Heuer water resistant case — 1895 – Heuer water-resistant case
source: www.timeandwatches.com

4. Time of Trip Dashboard Chronograph

In 1911, TAG Heuer introduced the Time of Trip dashboard chronograph, a tool specifically designed for the aviation and automotive industries. This patented chronograph featured central hour and minute hands, a smaller second counter, and a larger counter to measure trip duration up to 12 hours. Its user-friendly crown allowed easy time adjustment, and its button-controlled start/stop/reset functions added to its practicality.

5. Micrograph – The Most Precise Stopwatch of its Time

One of TAG Heuer’s most remarkable achievements came in 1916 with the introduction of the Micrograph, the most precise stopwatch of its era. This innovation set the stage for TAG Heuer’s dominance in precision timekeeping.

Heuer Micrograph — Tag Heuer Mikrograph 1916
source: www.hautehorlogerie.org

6. Crafting Chronographs for Pilots

In the 1930s, TAG Heuer expanded its focus, designing chronographs specifically for pilots — a move that solidified its place in aviation history.

7. Creation of the Autavia Dashboard Device

Maintaining its strong ties with the aviation and automobile industries, TAG Heuer introduced the Autavia dashboard chronograph in 1933, featuring an impressive eight-day power reserve.

The Dashboard Autavia — Source: www.tagheuer.com

8. The Auto-Graph Chronograph

In 1948, TAG Heuer released the Auto-Graph chronograph, adding to its repertoire of cutting-edge timekeeping devices.

9. The Solunar — The World’s First Tidal Indicator

In 1949, TAG Heuer unveiled the Solunar, the world’s first watch to feature a tidal indication, catering to the needs of sailors and ocean enthusiasts.

10. The Seafarer

In the 1950s, TAG Heuer introduced the Seafarer, designed with a tide level indicator and a regatta dial, perfect for maritime activities.

11. The First Watch in Space

Heuer’s achievements continued with John Glenn wearing a Heuer stopwatch during the first American space voyage in 1962.

John Glenn reclining in space suit wearing Heuer stopwatch — source: https://magazine.tagheuer.com

12. The Development of Chronomatic

1969 brought a groundbreaking advancement with the Chronomatic — the world’s first self-winding chronograph movement, developed in collaboration with Breitling, Buren, and Dubois-Depraz.

Calibre 11: Chronomatic — Source: https://www.tagheuer.com

13. The Monaco

The Chronomatic movement was incorporated into iconic models like the Carrera, Autavia, and Monaco, the latter famously associated with Steve McQueen.

Steve McQueen wearing Monaco — Source: https://www.tagheuer.com

14. The TAG Heuer S/el Collection

In 1985, Techniques d’Avant Garde (TAG) acquired a majority stake in the company, renaming it TAG Heuer. Under TAG’s ownership, the brand introduced the S/el collection in 1987, furthering its innovation.

15. The Microtimer

In 1996, TAG Heuer launched the Microtimer, a groundbreaking chronograph capable of measuring time with a precision of 1/1000th of a second.

Tag Heuer Microtimer — source: https://professionalwatches.com

Despite strong ties to Formula 1, celebrity collaborations, and luxury brand partnerships, TAG Heuer faces criticism from watch enthusiasts who feel the brand’s prestige has dimmed. Many argue that its focus on marketing and high-profile collaborations, like with Formula 1 and Porsche, overshadows the traditional watchmaking craftsmanship that once defined the brand.

Want to know more about another heritage watch brand? Read more here on Hamilton

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