FeatureClash of the Icons – Quartz Chronograph: TAG Heuer Formula One VS Movado Edge

The third edition of The Watch Guide’s Clash of the Icons is back with two new timepieces that will go head to head with each other. In one corner, we have the ultra-modern Movado Edge, a revolutionary piece of horology that has taken timekeeping to the edge. And on the other side, we have the legendary and historical timepiece, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Quartz Chronograph.

As mentioned before, the basic idea of “Clash of the Icons” is to bring two of the most sought-after timepieces face to face with each other. From their user-friendliness, their unique selling point (USP), and their wearability quotient to value for money, these two watches will be fighting it out to the end.

Before the fists start flying, I would like to mention the rich history that both these watches – Movado Edge and TAG Heuer Formula 1, bring to the ring. While the former is a re-imagination of an icon – the Museum dial, the latter holds a special place in the brand’s history. It was the first collection introduced following the procuration of Heuer by Techniques d’Avant Garde (“TAG”). Extremely similar, in terms of their aesthetics and the features they offer, choosing a winner is going to be difficult. However, there can only be one winner so let’s hope the best watch wins!

Make way for the biggest showdown of the year with the ultra-modern Movado Edge and a TAG Heuer Formula 1 classic. Let’s get ready to rumble!

Round 1- USP (What makes the watch so unique)

“Contemporary” in every sense of the word, the Movado Edge, designed by the famous industrial designer Yves Béhar, clearly represents the times we live in now. Its bold and daring design perfectly captures the essence of the 21^st century. A dynamic representation of the iconic Museum dial, the watch showcases a unique three-dimensional dial that is reminiscent of an industrial turbine. Each ridge on the dial is sculpted with perfection and beautifully characterises the passing of time. The Movado Edge is a timepiece that will definitely make a lasting impression.

On the other hand, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 represents the brand’s deep-rooted connection to the prestigious Formula 1 race. It is a classic watch that has undergone many changes since its inception, yet stays true to the spirit and heritage of a Formula 1 watch. It has sort of established itself in the market as a sporty, unpretentious timepiece that will rule its segment for many years.

It is a given that both the watches bring a lot of beauty and aesthetic appeal to the table. However, Movado Edge takes it up a notch with its unique design and classic character. In addition, the intricately designed three-dimensional dial is difficult to beat!

Verdict: Round 1 goes to Movado Edge

Round 2: User –Friendliness  (Are the features easy to use)

The Movado Edge and the TAG Heuer Formula 1 offer similar features. They’re both powered by a Swiss quartz movement and feature chronograph complications. However, while aesthetically the Movado Edge has an edge, in terms of technical superiority, TAG Heuer is a tough watch to beat.

Housing a reliable quartz movement, the TAG Heuer offers luminescent filled hand-applied markers that ensure better and faster reading of time irrespective of the lighting conditions. The presence of the numbers and markers on the dial and the three chronograph counters further ensure that the wearer is able to read time quickly and without any confusion. Keeping up with the racing watch theme, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 is also equipped with a tachymeter scale on the bezel.

The Movado Edge, on the other hand, offers a simple dial devoid of any markers. While the absence of explicit markings enhances the overall minimalistic look, it could also leave the wearer slightly confused. Hence, reading time off the dial and moreover timing laps could take some getting used to with this one.

Verdict: Round 2 goes to TAG Heuer Formula 1

Round 3: Comfort

The steel case of the Movado Edge and the TAG Heuer Formula 1 are moderately sized at 42mm and 43mm, respectively. Both watches offer stainless steel bracelets. However, since the TAG Heuer Formula 1 is fundamentally a sporty watch, the steel bracelet is not the most convenient option to use whilst running around or playing sports.

The steel bracelet of the Movado Edge, on the other hand, perfectly matches the edgy design concept of the modern watch. It sits perfectly on the wrist and provides great comfort along with an overall complete look; even as a daily driver.

Verdict: Round 3 goes to Movado Edge

Round 4: Value for Money (Who gives you more for less)

The TAG Heuer Formula 1 is priced at Rs. 94,900 in India, which is a good price for a sporty watch that offers a lot at a fair price range (considering it features a chronograph complication along with a tachymeter scale on the bezel).

However, when it finally comes down to value for money, the Movado Edge surely takes the cake. Priced moderately at Rs. 85,300, the watch offers much more than what it is priced at. Despite offering a chronograph function like the TAG, Movado Edge is aesthetically incomparable.

Rightly called “a daring new experience of time”, the Movado Edge without a doubt offers a lot more for less.

Verdict: Round 4 goes to Movado Edge

Final Verdict:

While both the watches offer incredible features at a fair price range, there is no doubt, that Movado Edge offers an ‘edge’. Featuring an unparalleled aesthetic appeal combined with a marvellous blend of technical innovation and great value for money, the timepiece we recommend, and the winner of the third edition of the Clash of Icons, is the edgy and very promising Movado Edge.

Both the TAG Heuer Formula 1 and Movado Edge are available at Ethos Watch Boutiques.

Do you agree with the result? Who do you think should have won? Let us know in the comments section below!