The 1000 Superdiver isn’t the only new watch Tag Heuer are announcing at Watches & Wonders to take inspiration from last year’s Aquaracer Professional 300s. They’re also expanding the Professional 300 core collection itself with a new colourway. The new version is the Aquaracer professional 300 Orange and it’s without a doubt my favourite version to date.
It won’t surprise you to learn that the 300 Orange has a bright orange dial with the classic horizontal lines of the Aquaracer. The history of the colour orange and dive watches is legendary. As the myth goes, watchmakers were searching for the best colour for a watch dial to guarantee legibility in the murky depths of Lake Neuchâtel. It was Doxa who eventually realised orange is optimal for its contrast to the blue of water, thanks to being on the opposite side of the colour wheel. Since then, many watchmakers including Tag Heuer have a long tradition of using orange on divers.
The colour works really well for the Aquaracer Professional 300 because of the colour’s serious legacy while still being bright and fun. Plus, it contrasts wonderfully with the black ceramic bezel. Although, outside of the new colours it’s the same watch we saw 12-months ago, 43mm stainless steel case and Calibre 5 movement included.
It’s a great addition to the range, it’s just a shame that the Calibre 5 movement is a little lacklustre these days. Its general performance is solid but the 38-hour power reserve hurts it, especially considering Tag Heuer’s new partnership with Kenissi.
Price & Specs:
Model: Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Orange Diver
Reference: WBP201F.BA0632
Case/dial: 43mm diameter, fine brushed & polished steel case, orange matte dial
Water resistance: 300m (30 bar)
Movement: Tag Heuer Calibre 5, automatic, 26 rubies
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 38h
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet
Price: $3,300 USD, available in May
More details at Tag Heuer.
