# TAG Heuer Revives Classic Orange Formula 1 Watch with Solar Power The iconic 1980s model returns with a solar-powered twist. - **Source:** [Wired](https://www.wired.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-10 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c1064507-2f5b-4311-be1d-81aaed751315 ## The Return of an Icon TAG Heuer has redesigned the classic orange Formula 1 watch from its 1986 series. The 373.513 model, one of the first F1 watches with a metal case, is making a comeback as part of the Solargraph F1 collection in 2025. Dubbed 'Zandvoort' by watch enthusiasts, this edition commemorates the final Dutch Grand Prix at the legendary Zandvoort circuit. The revival blends nostalgia with modern horology, appealing to both vintage lovers and tech-savvy collectors. ## Specs and Pricing The new F1 Solargraph measures 38 mm, larger than the original 28 mm and 35 mm versions. It comes with either an orange rubber strap ($2,150) or a steel bracelet ($2,250), the latter featuring a three-row sandblasted design instead of the original five-row. Limited to 1,500 pieces for the rubber strap and 1,000 for the bracelet, the steel-banded version is an online exclusive, unavailable in physical stores. Orders open next week, with sign-ups for notifications already live. ## Nods to Original Design The redesign preserves key elements from the 1980s, including the gray opaline dial and the TAG logo-mirroring details on the orange rubber strap. Notably absent are the V-shaped grooves from the original straps, which allowed surfers to customize length for wetsuit wear. This omission signals TAG's shift away from its aquatic roots toward a more polished, unalterable aesthetic suited for contemporary wrists. ## From Surf to Circuit Initially aimed at young surfers and divers, the F1 line's bright colors—conceived by designer Eddy Burgener—were inspired by surfboards and beachwear. TAG's later involvement in motorsports rebranded the collection as 'Formula 1,' broadening its appeal to racing fans. This duality—water sports heritage meets racing pedigree—has become a hallmark of the F1 series, celebrated in the new Solargraph iteration. ## Material Innovations The original F1 used a fiberglass-plastic composite for durability. The Solargraph models upgrade to TH-Polylight, a castor-based bioplastic replacing the vintage 'Arnite' thermoplastic. Molded over a steel core, this eco-friendlier material enhances robustness while aligning with modern sustainability trends—a significant leap from the synthetic-case challenges Burgener faced in the '80s. ## Commercial Legacy The F1 line was a commercial juggernaut, selling over 3 million units before discontinuation. Its success stemmed from vibrant design, affordability, and ruggedness—qualities that resonate in today's reissue. The Solargraph series, while premium-priced, taps into this legacy, targeting collectors who value both heritage and cutting-edge solar technology. ## Limited Edition Strategy With only 1,500 rubber-strap and 1,000 steel-bracelet units, TAG Heuer leverages scarcity to elevate desirability. The online-exclusive bracelet model caters to digital-native buyers, reflecting shifting retail dynamics. Such tactics, combined with the Zandvoort narrative, position this release as a must-have for horology aficionados and F1 memorabilia seekers alike. ## Collector's Holy Grail The orange F1's rarity and cultural cachet make the Solargraph reissue a pivotal addition to collections. Bridging 1980s nostalgia with 2020s tech—solar charging, eco-materials—it exemplifies TAG's ability to honor its archives while innovating. For enthusiasts, owning this piece means securing a chapter of watchmaking history, now powered by the sun. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/story/orange-crush-tag-heuer-drops-a-bright-revamp-of-the-original-metal-f1-watch/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._