Last month, famed watch retailer Bucherer teamed up with TAG Heuer to release the latest in their growing series of “Blue Edition” releases. With a history spanning back to 1888, the Lucerne-based watch and jewelry house has also managed to foster lasting relationships with the brands they carry – often releasing exclusive models with “Bucherer Blue” as a central design theme. From a 14-day Traditionnelle tourbillon from Vacheron Constantin to their very own rendition of the Tudor Black Bay, the Blue Edition line-up seems to offer a wide range of exclusive releases at varying price points. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Bucherer Blue Edition, I believe, should be one of the most affordable options and the straightforward styling together with the blue color scheme will probably be a hit for those with a soft spot for the collection.

Whether we like to admit it or not, a dive-style model from TAG Heuer was probably one of the first watches we ogled at from the other side of a display case. The Formula 1 collection, specifically, is still one of the brand’s biggest sellers – and with at least 20 different variations currently available, it’s easy to see why people are finding something they like. One of the major downsides I’ve always seen with the non-chronograph Formula 1 models, is that they’re almost suspended in a strange watch design nether region with too many overt “automotive” themes encapsulating the overall look. So, when I saw the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Bucherer Blue press release, I had to just stop and realize that it was the first time a Formula 1 had really captured my attention in a very long time. I guess it’s true when they say a blue-dialed, masculine looking steel sports watch will almost always win the crowd.

At 43mm, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Bucherer “Blue Edition” watch falls into a great sweet spot for a lot of watch lovers. I’d also like to point out that the watch is apparently dedicated to “style-savvy young men who have motorsport running in their veins,” according to the supplied press materials. Well, I take the bus every day but I’d still rock this watch, and I just wish that more brands would let their products do the talking, rather than rely on inflated marketing copy to make some sort of connection. It’s a blue dialed dive-style watch with an aluminum bezel, full stainless steel construction, 200m of water resistance, legible handset with applied indices, a sapphire crystal, and an automatic movement.

It’s also a Formula 1, the first series released after the acquisition of Heuer by Techniques d’Avant Garde (“TAG”) in 1986. So while some may scoff at the idea of the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Bucherer Blue, I actually find it to be one of the most approachable variants to come to the collection in some time. Evidently, the movement seems to be the same TAG Heuer Caliber 5 with and ETA 2824-2 base, 38 hours of power reserve, and an operating rate of 28,800 bph. Additionally, the watch is supplied with a very attractive rally-style rubber strap for added versatility.

All told, I feel like the Formula 1 collection needed this slight, simple color refresh. And the fact that this humble little watch made its way into the growing lineage of Blue Editions from Bucherer makes it even more charming. So, for those that feel disenchanted by some of the louder colors and automotive design themes typically found within the Formula 1 collection, this down-to-earth alternative is probably the better choice. Currently, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Bucherer “Blue Edition” watch is priced at £1,650 and available online exclusively from Bucherer.