TAG Heuer Carrera Heuer 02 X Team Ikuzawa X Bamford automatic Full Set 2024

The story behind the watch

The TAG Heuer Carrera CBN201F.EB0356, also known as the Carrera Team Ikuzawa by Bamford, is an exceptional watch born of the collaboration between three prestigious entities: TAG Heuer, Team Ikuzawa and the Bamford Watch Department. This limited edition celebrates the heritage of Japanese motor racing and the pioneering spirit of Team Ikuzawa, founded by legendary driver Tetsu Ikuzawa. Inspired by the team's exploits, particularly at the 1967 Japanese Grand Prix, this piece embodies the union of performance, style and watchmaking expertise. Only 100 of these watches were produced, and they were only available on the Japanese market. They have become a real collector's item, highly prized by fans of sports watches and exclusive models.

For the record, Tetsu Ikuzawa is an iconic figure in Japanese motor racing, renowned for his prolific career as a driver, team manager and businessman. His motorsport career began in 1963 when he joined the Prince Motor Company as an official driver. He then took part in the first Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, driving a Skyline Sport Coupé. In 1964, he won his first major victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, consolidating his reputation as a talented driver. Looking to broaden his horizons, Ikuzawa moved to Europe in 1966 to compete in the British Formula 3 Championship, becoming one of the first Japanese drivers to make his mark on the international scene. He worked with notable figures such as Stirling Moss and Frank Williams, and in 1968 he was recruited as an official driver by Porsche, participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1967, he won the Fuji Speedway GP for the first time at the wheel of a Porsche 906 that he had rented.

In 1979, with his experience and vision, Tetsu founded his own team, initially named i&i Racing Development, which later became Team Ikuzawa. Under his leadership, the team distinguished itself in various championships, notably in European Formula 2 and in the Japanese Formula 2 Championship. Team Ikuzawa is also recognized for its involvement in endurance and prototype racing, contributing significantly to the development of motorsport in Japan.

Beyond his exploits on the track, Tetsu Ikuzawa is also recognized for his keen sense of style and his passion for collectibles. His personal collection includes more than 70 Porsches, testifying to his love of cars. His influence also extends to the world of fashion and design, where he is considered a style icon.

Today, Tetsu's legacy lives on through his daughter, Mai Ikuzawa, who, as creative director and automotive ambassador, continues the family tradition by merging the worlds of art, design and motorsport.

The model

The TAG Heuer Carrera Team Ikuzawa CBN201F.EB0356 stands out for its sleek and bold design, combining a 42 mm steel case, finely brushed and polished, with a highly legible opaline white dial. This dial is enhanced by bright red accents, particularly on the seconds scale and the counters, creating a striking contrast that evokes the racing spirit. The rhodium-plated and polished indexes and hands, coated with white Super-LumiNova® and red lacquer, ensure optimal readability in all circumstances.

The watch has two chronograph counters at 3 and 9 o'clock, recalling the iconic design of the Carrera models. The whole is completed by a stainless steel bracelet, offering long-lasting comfort and a secure fit. The watch also comes with a white fabric strap with the inscription “Team Ikuzawa”, equipped with a Velcro closure for an even sportier touch.

The screwed-down sapphire crystal case back reveals the inscriptions “XXX/100”, the Team Ikuzawa logo and the words “BAMFORD WATCH DEPT.”, underlining the exclusive nature of this edition. For collectors, the box also contains a miniature of the Porsche 906, the car symbolizing the victories of the Ikuzawa team.

The caliber

This watch is powered by the Heuer 02 caliber, an automatic movement manufactured in-house by TAG Heuer. This caliber is distinguished by its 80-hour power reserve, ensuring generous autonomy for daily or extended use. With a column wheel and vertical clutch, this movement guarantees remarkable precision and exemplary fluidity in the activation of chronograph functions.

The Heuer 02 caliber is also designed for proven robustness, with a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). Its modern architecture reduces friction, thus offering increased longevity and reliable operation. Its display on the back of the watch, thanks to the transparent case back, allows you to admire the care taken in the finishing and design.

The package

This watch is in excellent condition and will be delivered as a full set, with its own special box that reflects the exclusivity of this limited edition. The box contains a miniature Porsche 906, a tribute to the legendary exploits of Tetsu Ikuzawa and Team Ikuzawa at the 1967 Japanese Grand Prix, where the Porsche 906 shone by taking victory.

In addition to the case and the miniature, the box includes a second strap with the inscription “Team Ikuzawa”, offering a sporty alternative to the original steel strap. The watch comes with a warranty dated January 2024.

This chronograph has been authenticated and checked by our watchmaker, guaranteeing that it is in perfect working order, and as such benefits from the Lepage Vintage 1-year warranty. A rare and highly desirable piece for motorsport and watchmaking enthusiasts.