The Ryan Gosling TAG Heuer Carrera in The Gray Man: A Detailed Review

TAG Heuer and Ryan Gosling: A Partnership in Horology

In late 2021, TAG Heuer announced Canadian actor Ryan Gosling as its newest brand ambassador. This collaboration brought renewed attention to the TAG Heuer Carrera Three Hands collection, a line of dress watches with a motorsport heritage. In 2022, the brand released thirteen new models across four sub-families: Carrera Day Date 41, Twin-Time Date 41, Carrera Date 29, and Carrera Date 39. The latter, specifically the reference WBN2111.FC6505, gained fame as the watch worn by Gosling in the Netflix film The Gray Man (2022).

Anatomy of the Ryan Gosling TAG Heuer Watch

Case

The TAG Heuer Carrera Ref. WBN2111.FC6505 features a 39mm stainless steel case with a slim profile of 11.5mm and a lug width of 20.5mm. Its downward-sloping lugs ensure a comfortable fit on wrists of small to average size. The case combines brushed and polished finishes: the bezel and lugs are polished for a bright sheen, while the case flanks are brushed for a matte contrast. This design allows the watch to slip easily under a shirt cuff, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer understated elegance.

Caseback

The screw-down caseback is crafted from stainless steel with a polished finish. It is engraved with essential details such as the country of manufacture, depth rating, and collection name. At the center, a sapphire crystal window offers a clear view of the movement, protecting it from impacts and scratches while showcasing the mechanical artistry inside.

Crown

On the right side, a screw-down crown made of stainless steel bears the TAG Heuer shield logo. Its grooved sides provide a secure grip for easy winding and time setting. The screw-down crown, combined with the caseback, ensures a water resistance of 100 meters—a notable feature for a dress watch, which typically offers only 50 meters.

Dial

The dial features a brushed silver sunray finish, exuding a minimalist elegance. Stainless steel applique hour markers and skeletal sword hands, both filled with Super-LumiNova, ensure excellent legibility in low light. A date window sits at 6 o'clock, framed in steel. The outer minute track is black with stick indices and Arabic numerals, adding a sporty touch. A domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides protects the dial and minimizes glare.

Strap

The watch comes with a black alligator leather strap, fitted with a polished stainless steel folding clasp. The clasp features push-button releases for easy removal and is engraved with the TAG Heuer shield logo, demonstrating the brand's attention to detail.

Movement

Powering the watch is the in-house TAG Heuer Calibre 5, based on the reliable ETA 2824-2. This automatic movement contains 25 jewels, beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), and offers a power reserve of 38 hours.

Price

The TAG Heuer Carrera Ref. WBN2111.FC6505 is priced at ,750 USD, making it an accessible entry point into the world of TAG Heuer dress watches.

Ryan Gosling TAG Heuer Watch: All-Stainless Steel Variant

In addition to the leather-strap version, Gosling also wore the all-stainless steel TAG Heuer Carrera Ref. WBN2111.BA0639 in The Gray Man. This variant features a 39mm stainless steel case paired with a matching three-link bracelet. The design is nearly identical, with a brushed silver sunray dial, luminous sword hands, and a date aperture at 6 o'clock. The screw-down crown ensures 100-meter water resistance. Powered by the same Calibre 5 movement, this model offers a uniform silver aesthetic and is priced at ,850 USD.

Alternatives to the Ryan Gosling TAG Heuer Watch

1. Hamilton Jazzmaster Ref. H32505751

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Hamilton Jazzmaster Ref. H32505751. This watch features a 40mm stainless steel case with a black leather strap. Its silver sunray dial is adorned with slim hour indices and dauphine hands, all coated with lume. A date window sits at 6 o'clock, and a day-of-the-week display arcs across the top. The in-house Hamilton Caliber H-40 automatic movement offers a power reserve of 80 hours. Priced at 5 USD, it is an excellent value.

2. Grand Seiko 9S Mechanical Ref. SBGR287

If you have a larger budget and appreciate Japanese craftsmanship, the Grand Seiko 9S Mechanical Ref. SBGR287 is a worthy contender. This 37mm stainless steel watch features a clean white dial with silver-tone indices and dauphine hands. It is powered by the Grand Seiko Caliber 9S65, an automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve. The price is higher, reflecting Grand Seiko's meticulous finishing and precision.

Final Thoughts

The TAG Heuer Carrera Ref. WBN2111.FC6505, as worn by Ryan Gosling, is a versatile and elegant dress watch that balances sportiness with sophistication. Its 100-meter water resistance, in-house movement, and refined design make it a strong contender in the luxury watch market. Whether you choose the leather strap or the all-steel bracelet, you'll own a piece of cinematic history.