The Low-Down

The instantly recognizable TAG Heuer Monaco takes its name from the most glamorous Grand Prix in the world. Released in 1969, this iconic design is the first water-resistant chronograph with a square case. The pioneering automatic chronograph incorporated a micro-rotor winding system and had a crown deliberately placed at the nine o’clock position as a statement to all that this watch doesn’t need to be wound.

In 1970, Jack Heuer, a pioneer of motorsport-themed watchmaking and the great-grandson of the company’s founder Edouard Heuer, won an inspired marketing coup, putting the watch on Steve McQueen’s wrist for the movie Le Mans, ensuring that the Monaco would become the four-sided icon it is today.

Memorable iterations of the Monaco include the 1975 black PVD-dial version nicknamed the ‘Dark Lord’ and the Monaco V4, which TAG Heuer unveiled on the 40th anniversary of the Monaco. It was the world’s first watch with patented belt drives, ball bearings and linear mass.

This time, TAG Heuer has swapped out the Monaco’s signature blue dial for an attention-grabbing purple gradient dial. Light purple in the center, this hue darkens radially outward, past black opaline sub-counters and culminating in an elegant contrast against rhodium-plated markers and hands with white Super-LumiNova and a polished and fine-brushed stainless-steel case measuring 39mm and protected by a sapphire crystal.

Admire the caliber Heuer 02’s customized oscillating mass and column wheel through its sapphire caseback. Engravings include the unique serial number of your limited edition. This 2022 edition of the Monaco is limited to 500 pieces.

IMHO

The Monaco is one of the great icons of affordable luxury. If you like motorsport, chronographs and/or off-kilter watches, go for it.

If you like your Monaco’s even quirkier than normal, you might also like to check out the five limited edition models that TAG Heuer released in 2019 to celebrate the brand’s 50th birthday — provided you can still get your hands on them.

Movement: Self-winding caliber Heuer 02; 80 hours of power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date and chronograph
Case: 39mm; polished and fine-brushed stainless steel case
Strap: Black alligator leather strap with purple lining and steel folding clasp with double safety push-buttons
Price: USD 7,150
Availability: Limited to 500 pieces; sold exclusively in TAG Heuer boutiques