TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45 Vs TAG Heuer Connected

Just how much better is the new version?

We know that tech moves fast, but really, TAG Heuer? It has only been a year since the Swiss watch giant announced its collaboration with Google and Intel to introduce the TAG Heuer Connected, and we are already seeing an upgraded version with the TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45.

You can read our review of the latter here. But the devil, as they say, is in the details. To understand how much TAG Heuer has pushed the envelope, here is a comparison between the old and new.

ENGINE
Both the Connected Modular 45 and first-gen Connected share almost the same specs. They are powered by the dual-core 1.6Ghz Intel Atom processor Z34XX series, with 4GB storage and operate on Google’s Andriod Wear platform. However, it is the latest Andriod Wear 2.0 version you get on the Connected Modular 45. The new version also has less RAM – 512MB compared to 1GB on the Connected – though performance is said to be comparable. Both watches come with 410mAh batteries with contact charging.

DISPLAY
The Connected Modular 45 trumps its brethren in this department, with a sharper and more vibrant display. The new version features a AMOLED display, offering higher resolution – 400 x 400 pixels for 287ppi. The earlier version offers 360 x 360 pixels for 240 ppi.

CONNECTIVITY
For basic fuss-free Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity with your smartphone, as well as motion sensors and gyroscope, both versions are well-served. The Connected Modular 45, however, boasts built-in GPS (great to track sporting activities), and an NFC chip for contactless payments when used together with the Andriod Pay app.   

BODY
The Connected comes in a 46mm grade 2 titanium case that is ultralight at 52g, and is IP67 rated, meaning it is dust and splash-resistant. The Connect Modular 45, on the other hand, comes in a 45mm grade 5 titanium case (which has a higher strength-to-weight ratio), is slightly heavier at 62.5g and is water resistant to 50m. Most importantly, the latter is customisable, offering modular options for the case, lugs, straps and bracelet in a whopping 52 possible combinations.  

MECHANICAL UPGRADE  
This is where it gets interesting. TAG Heuer has been refining the collection’s #ConnectedToEternity rallying cry with options to upgrade both the Connected and the Connected Modular 45.

For the Connected, once its warranty expires in two years, you can upgrade the watch to an automatic TAG Heuer Carrera in an exclusive deal just for Connected users.

The proposition for the Connected Modular 45 is more enticing. The watch’s modular construction means that you can actually swap the connected module, case and all, with a module running on the three-hand Calibre 5, or even one containing the Carrera-Heuer 02T automatic tourbillon chronograph movement.

PRICE
The Connected retailed at a starting price of S$2,100 with rubber strap. The Connected Modular 45 starts from S$2,400, with the option of the additional mechanical module at an extra S$2,400. It is a tad pricier than its predecessor, but the customisable options, modular features, and key tech upgrades with built-in GPS and NFC chip supercharge the new version a whole lot more mileage for your buck.