The Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph as featured on the dashboard of the limited edition Ken Okuyama-designed K.O. 7 futuristic, high performance and eco-compatible sportscar. Indeed Ken Okuyama has managed to design an high performance GT sportscar with a limited environmental impact thanks to the systematic use of advanced light weight materials such as aluminum, titanium and carbon, enabling him to achieve an extraordinary horsepower to weight relationship. It offers a chance to enjoy the thrill of stunning accelerations as well as the pleasure of sporty driving while being environmentally responsible! Ken Okuyama’s vision and commitment as shared by TAG Heuer may well become a must-have factor in the GT car industry in the near future.
Japanese Car Designer Ken Okuyama:
“The interior of the K.O. 7 was inspired by the Grand Carrera, and we mounted the extraordinary Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph on its dashboard. TAG Heuer chronographs are constructed in rich lightweight materials of the finest quality. Like the K.O. 7, their powerful proportions catch your eye first, and then you discover the depth of refinement, the beautiful craftsmanship, and the attention to detail. Collaborating with TAG Heuer made it possible to demonstrate something in common between our two industries: an endless quest for quality, performances and design innovations driven by new technologies.”
The first mechanical automatic chronograph that measures and displays 1/10ths of a second and the only timepiece in history to inspire and feature in a GT sportscar!
TAG Heuer has pulled off yet another world first: powered by a column wheel movement, the Grand CARRERA Calibre 36 RS Caliper Concept Chronograph is the only automatic chronograph capable of measuring and displaying 1/10ths of a second! Visible through a tinted double sapphire crystal, the COSC-certified movement oscillates at an astonishing 36,000 vibrations per hour. This enables the central seconds hand to tick off 1/10th second intervals, giving at-a-glance readings of an unparalleled exactitude – an engineering feat of the highest level.
The breathtaking new creation has a stylish 43mm, black titanium carbide-coated case, and a Calibre 36 RS movement with power reserve and two “Black Gold” Rotating Systems indicating the chronograph minutes at 3 o’clock and the chronograph hours at 6 o’clock. It also features a Linear Second at 9 o’clock. Another principle design innovation is the way in which it displays this information. TAG Heuer has developed an exclusive Rotating Scale that permits a precise reading of 1/10th of a second – magnified 10X! The new Titanium carbide-coated and rubber bracelet with folding buckle is another stunning innovation.
The super-sleek K.O. 7 sportscar was launched at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show together with the K.O. 8 coupé on March 4th, 2008 in the presence of Jean-Christophe Babin, TAG HeuerPresident & CEO and Ken Okuyama. Available in an exclusive limited edition of 99 vehicles, it will be showcased at the TAG Heuer booth throughout Baselworld 2008. An exceptional momentum celebrating TAG Heuer’s unique racing DNA as well as passion for advanced technology and design and unparallel support to avant-garde designers!
Ken Okuyama has worked as a Design Director and Chief Designer for General Motors, Porsche AG and Pininfarina S.p.A. He has overseen design for Ferrari Enzo, Maserati Quattroporte and many others. Alongside “Ken Okuyama Cars” and his various consultancy practices, Ken produces several premium avant-garde design products, including “Yamagata Koubou” furniture and the “Ken Okuyama Eyes” eyewear series. The author of several books on design, he is currently a visiting professor at the Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, California), Tama Art University, Kanazawa Art College, and the Nagoya University of Arts (Japan). He is also Vice Chairman for the “Good Design Award.”
A dream machine for a dream chronograph… A unique momentum to celebrate TAG Heuer’s unique racing DNA and commitment to design, technology and environmental responsibility!
