Originally introduced in 1986, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 was an affordable and cheerful sports watch recognisable to anyone who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. Now TAG Heuer has just unveiled the Formula 1 Kith Limited Edition, a faithful remake of the original Series 1 model, created in tandem with streetwear label Kith. Offered in ten colourful variants, the new Formula 1 is branded “Kith Heuer” in a nod to the collaboration, with the fashion label’s emblem replacing the customary “TAG” in the watchmaker’s shield logo.

Initial thoughts

Historically a brand that was an entry point into luxury sports watches, TAG Heuer has now gone a bit more upmarket. Its re-issues of vintage Heuer chronographs, for instance, are located in a pricier segment. Buyers looking for something more affordable have the Aquaracer or modern-day Formula 1. Now they have another option: the original Formula 1 built to current levels of quality.

Kith’s motto, “Just Us,” sits just above six

The modern-day Formula 1 has evolved enough it no longer resembles the original, so the Formula 1 Kith will be appealing to someone who wants to indulge in some nostalgia. The remake is virtually identical to the 1980s Series 1 model – even the plastic for the case and bezel are made by the same supplier – but with updated specs for additional robustness. At CHF1,500, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Kith is a good value proposition and in keeping with the accessible spirit of the original.

The first TAG Heuer

The Formula 1 Kith will bring back memories for those who grew up in the 1980s. The original Series 1 was often the first luxury Swiss timepiece for a young person then, including Ronnie Fieg, the founder of Kith, helping make it bestseller that sold in the millions of units.

The new Formula 1 is a faithful reissue of the original in both design and some of the materials. TAG Heuer even tracked down the supplier of the original 1980s cases and retrieved the same moulds used to form the plastic cases and bezels for the 1986 model. As with the original, the new Formula 1 has its bezel and some of the cases in arnite, a robust, cost-effective plastic.

That said, the original was a watch made for a budget and was inexpensively made with a stamped steel or moulded plastic case fitted with a plastic crystal and plastic strap. While retaining the same design, the Formula 1 Kith has been updated with modern materials, including a sapphire crystal, synthetic rubber strap, and a more solidly built steel bracelet.

The dial is branded “Kith Heuer”, though it retains all of the elements that defined the original, including the familiar “Mercedes” hour hand and the shield-shaped indices at the quarters. The “Kith Heuer” logo is also found on the rubber strap and case back. This merged logo is notable as in the 38 years since TAG Heuer was born out of Heuer, the brand has never blended its logo with another.

Available in ten different colourways, the timepiece sports a 35 mm case of steel, coated steel, or plastic. Seven of the variants are exclusive to Kith, each named after cities that host the label’s stores, while two are exclusive to TAG Heuer. One shared model will be available from both TAG Heuer and Kith.

A box set containing all ten pieces is also available. It’s limited to 75 pieces, with all the watches delivered in a large presentation box.

Key facts and price

TAG Heuer Formula 1 Kith Limited Edition
Ref. WA121F.BA0023
Ref. WA121J.BT0012
Ref. WA121L.BT0014
Ref. WA126A.BT0005
Ref. WA126B.BT0006
Ref. WA126C.BT0007
Ref. WA126D.BT0008
Ref. WA126E.BT0009
Ref. WA121N.BA0023
Ref. WA121P.BA0023

Diameter: 35 mm
Height: 9.45 mm
Material: Stainless steel, PVD stainless steel or arnite
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 200 m

Movement: Unavailable
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Winding: Quartz

Strap: Stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap

Limited edition: Kith arnite models limited to 250 pieces each; Kith stainless steel model limited to 350 pieces each; TAG Heuer arnite models limited to 825 pieces each; A shared arnite model limited to 1350 pieces 
Availability: Available in TAG Heuer boutiques and retailers starting April 2024
Price: CHF1,500

For more information, visit TAGHeuer.com.