CINEMATOGRAPHIC CELEBRATION
This 971-piece limited edition, unveiled during the Monaco Grand Prix, pays tribute to the legendary movie which whisked spectators off to the very heart of the most famous race of all.
When the Monaco was showcased back in 1969, the boldness of its style had a hard time making its mark in a totally-round watchmaking scenescape. But, four movie shots would change the game two years later. A few seconds on camera saw Steve McQueen wearing the watch and the racing suit lent to him by his friend Jo Siffert, Heuer’s first-ever ambassador. And, even though the Le Mans movie was a box-office flop, the stars were however aligned to ensure this model would enjoy unrivaled destiny. TAG Heuer celebrates this original piece and the movie with its Monaco Chronograph x Gulf series.
This chronograph embraces all the characteristics of the watch from the end of the 60s. Its virtually-square 39 mm case includes a crown at 9 o’clock and pushers on the opposite side. This layout stems from the reversed arrangement of the module dedicated to measuring short-cycle times on Caliber 11. This same selfwinding movement continues to drive the hands’ ballet. But, a few noteworthy changes emphasize the difference between the two watches. The Monaco Chronograph x Gulf‘s case is crafted in sandblasted grade 2 titanium. And, even though the time data scenography remains the same, with the minute counter at 9 o’clock and the small seconds at 3, this time round the dial takes on a fine-grained silvery hue decorated with the iconic blue and orange stripes that featured on the King of Cool‘s racing suit. What’s more, a sapphire-crystal caseback invites to admire the oscillating weight. This timepiece is complemented by two straps attached by folding clasps: a white textile one and a blue calfskin one. Style forever pursues its route, no matter the changes.
