With its cushion-shaped case, the Monaco from TAG Heuer is an icon among racing-inspired watches. On the occasion of Watches & Wonders 2024, the LVMH brand is presenting two new models with a unique design and split-seconds chronograph. The TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph is available with classic blue accents or in a more intense version with a black case and red accents. Both have a sapphire crystal plate as caseback, which makes the movement appear to float.
The 41 mm case of the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph is made of titanium. While the blue version retains the natural hue of the metal, the red version has an additional black DLC coating. Both feature a brushed front, sandblasted sides and polished accents on the pushers. The case measures 47.9 mm lug-to-lug and 15.2 mm in height.
The characteristic cushion shape of the Monaco is complemented by a stepped sapphire crystal that also allows a clear view from the side. The caseback is entirely novel: instead of the usual sapphire crystal window, it is made entirely of the mineral. The thick, faceted pane is attached to the titanium case by four screws. This unique composition of the case makes the movement appear to float in the centre. Moreover, it makes the extremely low weight of 85 grams possible (the brand’s watches typically weigh almost twice as much).
The start and stop pushers are located on the right flank of the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph. Opposite at 9 o’clock, protected by a pair of guards, is the rattrapante pusher. It separates the main hand from the split-seconds hand and ensures that the latter “catches up”. Meanwhile, the crown bears a stylised TAG Heuer logo in blue or red, depending on the model. The water resistance of the watch is 30 metres.
The dial itself is also sapphire crystal, revealing the mechanical inner workings of the watch. Red hour indices complement the minute track on both versions. There are also square luminous dots which, together with the main hands, which are also luminescent, guarantee legibility in the dark. The two metallic arches are striking; in the blue version, they offer a gradient to a darker shade and thus add dynamism to the ensemble. In the red version, on the other hand, they appear in deep black and emphasise the intense racing character of the watch.
The small seconds dial at 6 o’clock echoes the shape of these arches and thus finds its place despite its unusual shape. The two rectangular counters are located in the sapphire crystal dial and measure the elapsed hours and minutes. The colour of their hands resembles that of the split-seconds hand, thus highlighting their function in conjunction with the two central chronograph hands. Last but not least, the model name “Monaco” is engraved on the mainplate and visible through the sapphire crystal dial together with an applied TAG Heuer logo.
With the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds, the new TH81-00 calibre makes its debut. The movement came to be in collaboration with the Swiss supplier Vaucher from Fleurier and features a rattrapant mechanism with two column wheels. The TH81-00 is composed of titanium, making it the lightest TAG Heuer chronograph ever. The balance beats at a fast 5 Hz, which benefits both precision and makes measurement of tenths of a second possible. However, the high frequency has a negative effect on the power reserve. Nevertheless, the mainspring barrel offers a maximum power reserve of 65 hours. When the chronograph is running, this reduces to 55 hours.
Meanwhile, the automatic winding mechanism utilises an oscillating weight in the form of the TAG Heuer shield to generate energy. The oscillating weight also showcases the accent colour, which creates a harmonious look on the back as well. The movement bears a decorative chessboard pattern reminiscent of a chequered flag. There are also hand-polished edges, bead-blasted surfaces and polished screws.
The strap is made of calfskin and has a textile pattern in blue or red. A matching folding clasp secures the watches to the wrist. The two variants will be available from June 2024. The price is 165,000 Swiss francs.
