In Prime Video’s captivating romantic film, The Idea of You, starring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine, a TAG Heuer Carrera watch subtly steals the spotlight, evolving from a mere accessory to a powerful symbol within the narrative. This detail-rich exploration will delve into the watch’s pivotal role, its unexpected brand placement, and guide you on where to watch this talked-about movie.
The movie centers on the burgeoning romance between Solène (Anne Hathaway), an art gallery owner, and Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), the charismatic lead singer of a popular boy band reminiscent of One Direction. Amidst the relationship’s passionate highs and inevitable lows, a particular timepiece emerges as a recurring motif, carrying significant weight in their evolving dynamic.
Early in their relationship, facing Solène’s initial hesitation due to their age gap and different lives, Hayes makes a poignant gesture. After she expresses her doubts, stating, “I can’t do this. Because you’re you and I’m me and we just don’t fit,” Hayes, undeterred, leaves his watch on her table before departing, uttering a hopeful “We’ll see.” This scene marks the watch’s transition from a simple accessory to a key plot element.
The TAG Heuer Carrera then becomes a silent observer and communicator of their relationship’s status. Solène is seen wearing it during periods of happiness and connection, while Hayes reclaims it when discord arises. During moments of intimacy, it transforms into a “talisman,” as described in the film, visually representing their bond. In a tender scene, Hayes remarks to Solène while she wears his watch, “Well, I think it looks a lot better on you,” highlighting its symbolic value.
Anne Hathaway wearing TAG Heuer Carrera watch in The Idea of You
Karen Neasi, The Idea of You prop stylist, emphasizes the watch’s narrative importance. She explains, “The first moment you realize the watch isn’t just an accessory is the scene where Hayes takes it off his wrist and leaves it at Solène’s house to create a reason for her to have to see him again.” Neasi further elaborates that the watch “became its own entity — essentially another character in the film and intrinsically part of their love story. As the viewer you can glean the status of their relationship.” This clever prop work adds layers to the storytelling, using a subtle visual cue to reflect the characters’ emotional journey.
So, what exactly is this significant timepiece? It’s identified as the TAG Heuer Carrera, a 39mm stainless steel model featuring a brushed silver sunray dial and a matching steel bracelet. Its classic and versatile design ensures it looks equally sophisticated on both Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine.
Interestingly, TAG Heuer clarifies that the watch’s prominent role was not a paid product placement. The choice was organically linked to Robinne Lee’s original novel, The Idea of You, where the author specifically mentioned a TAG Heuer Carrera as Hayes’ watch.
However, the journey to feature the Carrera wasn’t without its twists. According to GQ, prop stylist Karen Neasi initially reviewed timepieces from another brand, intended for a product placement. Dissatisfied, she found them “not attractive, not cool, old man watches.” Neasi then proactively approached TAG Heuer, ultimately securing the Carrera for its crucial on-screen role. This decision underscores the importance of aesthetic and brand alignment in film styling.
Anne Hathaway wearing TAG Heuer Carrera watch in The Idea of You
Before Hayes’ Carrera enters the picture, sharp-eyed watch enthusiasts may notice Solène wearing an IWC Da Vinci Automatic Moon Phase 36 in gold. However, this elegant timepiece enjoys minimal screen time compared to the scene-stealing TAG Heuer.
Neasi aptly summarizes the Carrera’s impact: “The watch took on a life of its own. As a prop stylist, it’s so gratifying to see how an accessory can transcend being simply a prop, and end up wielding tremendous power within the storyline.”
For those captivated by The Idea of You and eager to witness the TAG Heuer Carrera’s symbolic journey firsthand, the movie is exclusively available to watch on Prime Video. Subscribers can stream The Idea of You now and delve into the romance where a watch does more than just tell time – it tells a story of connection, separation, and ultimately, love.
Anne Hathaway wearing TAG Heuer Carrera watch in The Idea of You
TAG Heuer, a brand associated with ambassadors like Ryan Gosling and Patrick Dempsey, continues to innovate. Recent releases include a collaboration with Kith and the high-horology Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph, showcasing their diverse and dynamic approach to watchmaking. However, in The Idea of You, it’s the classic Carrera that truly shines, becoming an unforgettable character in its own right.
