The motor-racing-inspired collection never looked this fun.

When TAG Heuer collaborated with Nintendo last year for its Connected x Super Mario Limited Edition, perhaps lovers of the classic videogame surmised that a Mario spin-off could possibly take over one of the brand’s most iconic models in future releases. Like a fan fiction come true, the sophomore effort of this partnership sees TAG Heuer’s Formula 1 collection playing host to the wildly popular Mario Kart racing game with a pair of whimsical limited editions.

Available as a chronograph or chronograph tourbillon, the Formula 1 x Mario Kart Limited Editions showcase the uncanny synergy between the highly technical watch collection and the videogame series – both share the common themes of adrenaline, speed, competitiveness, and the will to race to victory. A result of the TAG Heuer and Nintendo teams working closely together, the pair of watches is replete with customised elements that are sure to delight enthusiasts and casual players of Mario Kart alike.

The more accessible of the duo, the chronograph is limited to 3,000 pieces and powered by the automatic Calibre 16 movement. The brand’s loyalists should already be familiar with the robust 44mm steel case but might be pleasantly surprised by the number of playful details added throughout the watch. For example, the Mario Kart logo can be found inscribed on the black polished ceramic tachymeter bezel and engraved on the case back alongside an outline of Mario in his racecar, and the character’s M symbol is etched on the watch’s crown.

Inspired by the racetrack, the black and anthracite dial mimics a checkered flag, while the sub-dials feature an asphalt texture with Mario presiding over the small seconds counter at 9 o’clock. A bonus ‘Easter egg’ here can be found at the date window – instead of date numbers, wearers will encounter fan-favourite Mario Kart items, such as Bullet Bill, the Banana, and more.

Although slightly larger at 45mm, the chronograph tourbillon is lighter on the wrist, thanks to its grade 5 titanium case. Limited to only 250 pieces, it is equipped with TAG Heuer’s COSC-certified Calibre Heuer 02T movement, which can be admired via a sapphire crystal caseback brandishing the Mario Kart logo. The same logo can also be found on the black polished ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale up to 400 km/h.

Also offering glimpses of the high-precision calibre, the skeletonised black dial is enlivened by contrasting red lines, drawing one’s attention to the gearwheel at 12 o’clock that evokes racecar tire rims, chronograph counters, and the anti-gravity mechanism. A joy to witness in action, the tourbillon cage has been fully redesigned to host Mario in his kart, the Spiny Shell, and Bullet Bill in an endless race to outrun one another.

Paired with a black calf leather strap with red stitching and lining, the Formula 1 x Mario Kart Limited Editions come with customised watch boxes and matching travel pouches. While both are available at TAG Heuer boutiques and online shops, the chronograph version is also available at the brand’s select retail partners at $6,050. The tourbillon model is retailing at $36,100.

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