TAG Heuer Unveils New Skeleton Dial Models for Iconic Monaco Collection
 

TAG Heuer Unveils New Skeleton Dial Models for Iconic Monaco Collection

5 min read
 Sophie Baldwin

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 Sophie Baldwin

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Watch News

Since its inception in 1969, the TAG Heuer Monaco has solidified its place as one of the most legendary timepieces in history. With its daring square case design and groundbreaking chronograph functions, the Monaco quickly became synonymous with the TAG Heuer brand, captivating both racing enthusiasts and watch aficionados.

Over the years, the TAG Heuer Monaco has graced the wrists of racing icons such as Jo Siffert, Jochen Rindt, and the esteemed Steve McQueen, who famously wore the timepiece in the 1971 film "Le Mans," forever intertwining his style with the iconic watch.

CBL2182CBL2182 - Credit TAG Heuer

Rooted in Racing Heritage

The TAG Heuer Monaco perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the high-speed world of motorsports. Conceived by Jack Heuer, the watch aimed to be visually striking and technologically advanced. 1969 the prototype was unveiled, featuring a square-shaped case, a blue dial, and innovative chronograph functions. Paired with the Calibre 11, the world's first automatic chronograph movement available to the public, the Monaco quickly gained favor within the industry.

Throughout its existence, the TAG Heuer Monaco has continuously pushed the boundaries of contemporary design. From the midnight blue and bright white tones of the late 1960s to the contrasting grey hues of the early 1970s, the Monaco always reflected popular culture while defying traditional design conventions. In the late 1970s, the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph appeared entirely new, showcasing the legendary "Dark Lord" with its matte black case and dial.

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The watch's status as a cultural icon was firmly established in 1971 when Steve McQueen prominently featured it in the movie "Le Mans." McQueen's character, Michael Delaney, sported the timepiece throughout the film, solidifying its reputation as a symbol of style.

Continual Evolution and Innovation

Over the years, the TAG Heuer Monaco has undergone several design updates and technological advancements. 1998 the watch was reintroduced as part of the brand's Vintage series, faithfully reproducing the original design. In 2003, it received the Calibre 360 movement, capable of measuring time with accuracy up to 1/100th of a second.

Today, the TAG Heuer Monaco stands as one of the brand's most recognizable and iconic models. It has been released in various limited-edition versions, paying homage to its rich history and connection to motorsports, becoming a beloved and timeless timepiece. In line with the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and design, the introduction of the TAG Heuer Monaco skeleton dial watch represents the perfect next step and a testament to its avant-garde mentality.

CBL2184CBL2184 - Credit TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer Monaco Unveils the Art of Transparency

More than 50 years after the birth of the Heuer Monaco, TAG Heuer is proud to announce the release of three new models, which take the unique Monaco design to new heights by incorporating a captivating skeleton dial. For the first time, the collection unveils the mesmerizing inner workings of the watch.

The modern skeleton watches come in three distinct dials: "Original Blue," "Racing Red," and "Turquoise." Each dial reveals a striking open-work design that is poised to become an iconic feature. These timepieces have been meticulously designed to offer an avant-garde interpretation of the racing universe, exuding a contemporary style that resonates with collectors and the younger generation alike.

The Colours of Racing

CBL2184CBL2184 - Credit TAG HEUER

Every TAG Heuer Monaco skeleton dial piece boasts a unique history.

The "Original Blue" draws inspiration from the first-ever TAG Heuer Monaco with a blue dial. The blue and red tones grace the dial, column wheel, and oscillating mass engravings, paying tribute to the success of the original 1969 TAG Heuer Monaco.

The "Racing Red" edition celebrates the racing DNA of the TAG Heuer Monaco, with the vibrant red color reminiscent of the sparks ignited on the tracks. The black and silver accents on the dial, combined with the red column wheel and engravings on the oscillating mass, create a distinct racing-inspired aesthetic.

The "Turquoise" model adds a fresh and avant-garde touch to the collection, reimagining TAG Heuer's Monaco design. Its engaging turquoise color pays homage to Monaco's picturesque coastline, while the red accents on the dial, column wheel, and oscillating mass make this timepiece truly stand out among other iconic watches.

CBL2182CBL2182 - Credit TAG Heuer

Powerful Performance and Exquisite Craftsmanship

All three timepieces are powered by the in-house Heuer 02 movement, creating a harmonious contrast with the original TAG Heuer Monaco movement from the 1970s. This movement utilizes a conventional column wheel to activate the chronograph and boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve, one of the longest in the watch industry. The exquisite finishing of the Heuer 02 movement is further enhanced by an engraved oscillating mass displayed through the sapphire case back.

The new Monaco skeleton watches exude a technical and rugged aesthetic thanks to their sandblasted titanium grade 2 cases. Titanium, known for its exceptional strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance, has become a signature element of the TAG Heuer brand.

Adding an edgy and futuristic touch, the carved indexes and hands of the watch feature Super-LumiNova treatment. This luminous treatment extends to the date window, a first for the TAG Heuer Monaco, ensuring easy readability even in low-light conditions. The luminescent elements on the hands guarantee optimum legibility at any time, day or night - a detail that pays tribute to Jack Heuer's unwavering attention to detail.

CBL2182CBL2182 - Credit TAG Heuer

Crafted with meticulous precision, the newly released TAG Heuer Monaco skeleton dial watches embody technical excellence and a commitment to superior craftsmanship. These timepieces feature an innovative bi-material strap, combining rubber and leather for optimal comfort and style. The black and blue straps, respectively, further enhance the watches' overall racing appeal.

The three new TAG Heuer Monaco chronograph pieces represent an exciting addition to this iconic collection. With a fresh and avant-garde twist, they offer a modern interpretation of the emblematic design. TAG Heuer's dedication to its disruptive legacy and cutting-edge technology has resulted in simple and complex timepieces that ignite the imagination and make a bold statement.

Case

  • Size: 39mm
  • Water Resistance: 100m
  • Case: Titanium
  • Bezel: Fixed Bezel Titanium
  • Crown: Titanium Grade 2
  • Caseback: Sapphire – Titanium Grade 2

Strap / Bracelet

  • Material: Rubber & Leather
  • Buckle: Folding Clasp Double Security

Dial

  • Finishing: Sand Blasted

Movement

  • Caliber Heuer 02 Automatic
  • Automatic Chronograph
  • Power Reserve: 80 hours
  • Balance Freq: 28800 4HZ
  • Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronograph : 1/4 second, 30 minutes counter, 12 hours counter, Date

Price: £9,350.00

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 Sophie Baldwin

About the Author: Sophie Baldwin

Freshly joined WatchGecko after studying Photography: Editorial and Advertising at university. With my love for creation mixed with the need to organise and schedule I have found myself at home here in the publishing department.

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