The new TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45, the Swiss watchmaker’s second-generation smartwatch, stars a LEGO-like adaptabliity that allows the wearer to choose from 56 different case, dial, lug and strap combinations. Yes, the Google and Intel-enhanced digital features are beautfully realized with many more features than previously available, but it’s the watch’s modular design, almost endless customization options, and luxuriously finished components that place this release conceptually well ahead of other connected watches replica with Swiss pedigree.
Designed, developed and assembled in Switzerland by TAG Heuer, the Connected Modular 45 also connects cloud-sourced applications with Swiss mechanical know-how on several other levels.
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In addition to a primary digitally connected case unit (priced at $1,550), wearers have two mechanical options available: The TAG Heuer three-hand Calibre 5 (for an additional $1,650), or a manufacture chronograph Tourbillon Heuer 02-T, with a titanium and carbon case, COSC certified ($17,000). The latter arrives in a box set including a connected watch (in grade 5 titanium, with titanium lugs and brown natural leather strap), the tourbillon chronograph module and an additional black rubber strap.
The TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45 is at its most basic a Carrera watch whose lugs, strap, buckle and case are interchangeable elements. Eleven models are already available; many others can be customized. The 45mm case (1mm smaller than the first Connected) can be titanium (satin or polished), plated rose gold or black ceramic, with or without diamonds. These can be mixed or matched with a selection of lug designs like, for example, black ceramic, gold-plated or steel. Likewise, more than eighteen strap or bracelet references are available, including those made from rubber, natural leather or anthracite grey leather, titanium or ceramic.
The modularity concept extends to the watch’s software with a wide range of dial customization for the primary digital unit. TAG Heuer has developed thirty watch dials, including those with well-known current and historic TAG Heuer Carrera designs. Digital dial designs include those with white, black, light grey, anthracite gr ey, chocolate brown, navy blue or gold, with sunray finish, skeleton dial, three hands, GMT, a chronograph with 1, 2, or 3 counters, plus a date and day window. All these these dials are interchangeable with a single swipe of the finger.
With assistance of Google as well a special TAG Heuer workshop within Intel’s Silicon Valley offices, the company has greatly enhanced the watch’s connectivity performance. Options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS and NFC, which also enables users to benefit from a wide range of functions offered under the Android Wear operating system.
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The TAG Heuer Connected 45 motherboard is produced in Switzerland and the final assembly step and testing are completed in TAG Heuer’s own workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds. The unit features 4GB of memory and a lithium battery that provides about thirty hours of power. The watch is fitted with a small water-resistant microphone enabling the wearer to communicate with it using Google Assistant, as well as a sapphire crystal touchscreen, to be used alongside the command crown at 3o’clock. A new TAG Heuer Connected app is available on Android, with iOS support coming soon.
As noted above, TAG Heuer Connected 45 prices start at $1,650. Click to see more: tagheuer.com