For over a century, the sports field has served as a testing ground for the evolution of timekeeping. Whether it’s the first Olympic stopwatch introduced in 1916 or the birth of early wrist timers, the relationship between timepieces and the track has always been inseparable. As time progresses, the function of these devices has evolved from merely measuring seconds to monitoring bodily performance. Today, wristwatches are no longer just timekeeping tools; they’re keen observers of our physiological rhythms.
The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E5 40MM x New Balance Edition is truly the culmination of this evolution. Wrapped in a 40mm black DLC titanium case, the E5 smart movement features the latest TAG Heuer OS and is complemented by a high-resolution AMOLED touchscreen that ensures smooth operation. It offers comprehensive sensing capabilities, tracking vital body metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep quality, and heart rate variability. The smartwatch’s back is equipped with dual-band GNSS that supports multiple satellite systems, providing precise location tracking even in urban canyons or complicated terrains.
This collaboration with New Balance immerses itself in design inspiration, intricately woven into the details. The deep purple and green color palette draws from the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 running shoes, seamlessly connecting your wrist to your footwear. The all-new 0–100 scale dial synchronizes with training data in the app, reflecting intensity in real-time. The three exclusive dials Casual, Balance, and Reskin interpret a visual language that is minimalistic, data-driven, and in the signature collaborative hues, making them perfect for both training and everyday wear.
The biggest innovation lies in the Cushion Comfort System strap, which combines rubber with textile materials sourced from New Balance running shoe insoles. This is the first time such a feature has been utilized in TAG Heuer products, providing a long-lasting and comfortable wearing experience for those engaged in training. Each watch also comes with an additional elastic strap, specifically designed for high-intensity workouts, featuring the New Balance logo.
In terms of functionality, this watch supports six New Balance running training programs, ranging from beginner 5K to half marathon challenges, along with strength training options. Users can customize their training routes and goals via the TAG Heuer app, syncing everything to the watch, allowing for a complete training experience even without a phone. Features like step-by-step navigation, interval countdowns, pace alerts, Chasing Diamonds visual indicators, and pace color feedback are all designed to enhance training efficiency and focus.
Antoine Pin, CEO of TAG Heuer, describes this collaboration as an opportunity to rethink running gear. Our goal isn’t just to launch a watch and shoe pairing; we aim to create a true tool that empowers runners to challenge their own limits. Additionally, two-time Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone personally took part and stated: I truly appreciate how this watch and running shoes help me during my training; they make me more disciplined and focused every day.
The collaboration series officially launched in October, so keep an eye out! The watches and running shoes are not sold as a set but instead are available for separate purchase, with a reference price of HK $16,250.
