TAG Heuer Aquaracer 43mm "Sand": Sporty comes natural

One of my favorite releases at Baselworld last March was actually a 43mm Aquaracer. No, it's not a gold and platinum, plutonium powered quadruple tourbillon bi-turbo, but rather a simple, clean, stylish sports watch with an exceptionally "natural" feel to it.

I was fortunate to spend a few days getting to know this piece and it confirmed my initial impressions. It gets two solid "thumbs up" in my book.

This is not an in-depth review, I just wanted to share some photos and a few quick impressions of the piece, since we all know the solid reputation of Aquaracer line. In short, it's a great watch you can wear anywhere, a perfect daily driver...a robust design for the real world.

On the wrist, the Titanium case is light and quite comfortable.

The 12-sided ceramic bezel is easy to grasp and operate. It encompasses a dial with striking depth and simple but powerful details.

With its striking color combination, the Aquaracer "Sand" is sporty yet fashionable with a natural, "outdoorsy" feel to it.

Hour markers have split angles that reflect light to give the tiny details a deep visual impact against the groovy dial.

The Aquaracer's emblematic case is solid and rugged yet pleasantly refined.

Its dial is simple, clean and classic.

Beyond my own impressions, the design spoke for itself.

If you tire of the standard strap & color combinations, the Aquaracer Sand makes a great alternative.

Bold and classy as a '33 Caddy, the Aquaracer Sand is a unique and welcome addition to the Aquaracer line. I've no doubt this combination of black & sand will be a huge success for the brand.

How could they top it? I can certainly imagine this design in a chronograph. We'll have to wait and see what the designers at TAG Heuer come up with next!