Editor’s Note: Watches & Wonders (formerly SIHH) has moved online and Baselworld 2020 is canceled, but that hasn’t stopped watch brands large and small from debuting their new wares. Stay on top of this year’s best new watch releases here.
The Heuer Moncaco was named for the annual Formula One race called the Monaco Grand Prix when it was introduced in 1969 — but it’s so iconic, that connection might be overlooked. Finally, however, the watch seems to have returned to its roots. TAG Heuer has been named official timekeeper of the famous race through the streets of Monte Carlo, Monaco, and this sporty-looking iteration of the famously square chronograph marks the occasion.
Fans might even look right past the name and be more inclined to associate the Monaco with actor Steve McQueen and the movie about a French race called Le Mans. Last year was all about celebrating the Monaco watch’s 50th anniversary and its most iconic forms with models that played on a vintage theme. The newest model, however, feels a bit more modern, equipped with the brand’s in-house Heuer 02 movement — and its traditional chronograph layout, as opposed to the original’s Calibre 11 and its left-hand crown and right-hand pushers.
Housed in a 39mm-wide case, its full name is a bit of a mouthful and sports a French accent: the TAG Heuer Monaco Calibre 02 “Grand Prix de Monaco Historique” Edition. (Note the logo of the racing organization in the upper right corner of the dial.) Limited to 1,000 examples, the watch is priced at $6,850.
