Formula 1 and watches: Heuer, TAG Heuer, Rolex and Richard Mille

Few sports are as closely tied to watchmaking as motor racing. Timing is everything on track, and watch brands have been part of Formula 1 for more than half a century.

Heuer and the 1970s

Under Jack Heuer, the Swiss firm Heuer threw itself into motorsport. It worked with Ferrari's Formula 1 team in the 1970s, and its chronographs, such as the Autavia, Carrera and square Monaco, became the racing driver's watch. The Monaco gained lasting fame on Steve McQueen's wrist in the 1971 film Le Mans. See a 1970s Monaco in our shop.

TAG Heuer and McLaren

After TAG acquired Heuer in 1985, TAG Heuer began a partnership with McLaren that lasted three decades. Ayrton Senna, who won his three world titles with McLaren, was one of the brand's best-known ambassadors.

Rolex and the official clock

From 2013 Rolex was Formula 1's global partner and official timekeeper. In 2025 that role passed to TAG Heuer, as part of a wide-ranging partnership between Formula 1 and the luxury group LVMH.

Richard Mille on the grid

Richard Mille's link with motor racing goes back to its beginnings: the driver Felipe Massa was one of its first friends of the brand. It has since partnered with teams including McLaren and Ferrari, and its featherweight watches are designed to be worn while racing. See Richard Mille vs Rolex.

Racing chronographs to own

You don't need to be a driver to enjoy a racing chronograph. A vintage Heuer, an Omega Speedmaster or a Rolex Daytona all carry that spirit. Browse our Daytona watches, or see a Heuer Autavia.