
One of the beautiful things about collecting the best watches is that there really is something for everyone. Sure, certain pieces may have a broader stream of appeal, but there's no doubt that the creations of your wildest dreams are out there somewhere.
One thing which has almost always been on trend is a good chronograph. Born from the racetrack, these watches feature a stopwatch functionality, which was historically used to keep an eye on lap times.
The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph is unquestionably one of the best out there. As part of the brand's LVMH Watch Week offering, they released a brand new version with a sumptuous purple dial. I was lucky enough to get hands on with it, to see whether it's worth your attention.
Let's kick things off with the specs. This model makes use of a 39mm stainless steel case. That's a great size for any watch, but especially a chronograph, which makes use of additional internal parts for the added functions.
We do see some evidence of that, though, with the 13.9mm case height. It's certainly not the most unassuming case design.
Inside, you'll find an in-house TH20-00 calibre. That's a solid movement with a brilliant 80 hours of power reserve and a 4Hz beat rate.
The real star of this show is the dial, though. Dubbed a smokey purple, the sunray-brushed finish is absolutely gorgeous. It's luxurious and classy, without every straying into the realm of being gaudy.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
But enough chit-chat, let's dive into what this is like to wear. As you'd probably expect, that 39mm case diameter really works some magic on smaller wrists.
Even on my dainty arms, the whole case sat neatly within the confines, with no overhang. That's a really impressive feat, and makes the prospect of wearing a chronograph less daunting than it might otherwise be.
My fears about the case thickness also melted away once strapped on. It's much less noticeable than the spec sheet would suggest, and definitely wouldn't feel out of place for someone used to something in the 11-12mm region.
For me, though, the price point is the real winner here. £6,050 (approx. $7,500 / AU$12,000) is really not a lot for an automatic chronograph with an in-house calibre. Top that off with the infinitely wearable dimensions and the sumptuous colour of the dial, and it's practically a no-brainer.
If you've got this kind of cash for a chrono, there are very few which offer this kind of package.

Sam is an award-winning journalist with over six years of experience across print and digital media. As T3’s Senior Staff Writer, Sam covers everything from new phones and EVs to luxury watches and fragrances. Working across a range of different social media platforms alongside his written work, Sam is a familiar face for fans of T3. When he’s not reviewing snazzy products or hunting for stellar deals, Sam enjoys football, analog photography and writing music.
-
One of my favourite watches of last year just got even more delectable
The Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar is even sweeter in this rose gold case
By Sam Cross
-
New Panerai Submersible Chrono Marina Militare Experience Edition has one feature I wish more watches had
And it comes with a three-day immersive experience
By Sam Cross
-
New Christopher Ward C12 Loco marks the dawn of a new era for the brand
It features a new movement and an open balance
By Sam Cross
-
I loved the Ressence Type 7 at Watches and Wonders – but the real gem has lurked in its catalogue for six years
You've never seen a watch like this
By Sam Cross
-
A Week on the Wrist with the Casio G-Shock 2100 Fine Metallic – classy cool which can survive it all
This classic G-Shock gets a taste of luxury
By Sam Cross
-
One of the best dive watches I tested last year is a bargain with hundreds slashed from the price!
The Seiko Prospex 1965 Diver is a steal for this price
By Sam Cross
-
Blue watches are making a comeback, but not in the shade you might think
Blue dials are my favourite watch trend of 2025 – here’s why
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen
-
Girard-Perregaux Laureato 38 mm gets a blue diamond upgrade
We’re totally besotted by these diamond-bezelled beauties from Girard-Perregaux
By Alistair Charlton