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TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue Chronograph Caliber 11 Review
In the world of luxury timepieces, few watches can claim a legacy as profound and iconic as the TAG Heuer Monaco. More than 50 years after its initial introduction, Monaco continues to capture the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide. The TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue edition is a timepiece that beautifully combines historical significance, fantastic design, and association with motorsport and pop culture.
Before delving into the details of the TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue, it is essential to acknowledge the watch’s remarkable history. In March of 1969, TAG Heuer (then known as Heuer) introduced the Heuer Monaco, revolutionizing the watchmaking industry. It was the first-ever square-shaped, waterproof automatic chronograph, powered by the groundbreaking Chronomatic Calibre 11 movement. This daring innovation earned Monaco a place in the hearts of horological enthusiasts and solidified its position as a cultural icon.
| Brand | Tag Heuer |
| Model | Monaco Racing Blue Chronograph Ref. CAW218C.FC6548 |
| Case | Grade 2 Titanium |
| Case size | 39mm x 39mm |
| Water resistance | 100 meters |
| Movement | TAG Heuer Calibre 11 |
| Movement specs | Automatic movement, 59 jewels, 40-hr power reserve, 28,800 vph |
| Strap | blue perforated calfskin leather strap with a titanium folding clasp |
| Price | $10,380 (9,000 CHF) |
Design
The TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue edition is a captivating tribute to original Monaco, seamlessly blending sharp lines with smooth curves. Crafted from grade 2 titanium, the 39mm x 39mm case showcases a sandblasted finish on its 47.5mm lug-to-lug and 14.35mm thick frame.
The striking silver sunray-brushed square dial is adorned with two blue opaline square subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock, serving as the running seconds and chronograph minutes counter. A round minute track houses the subdials and an angled date window at 6 o’clock, giving the dial a contemporary yet timeless appeal. The attention to detail in the dial design is impeccable, with rhodium-plated Super-LumiNova hands and a lacquered lime yellow chronograph seconds hand, adding a pop of color. Rhodium-plated, polished applied hour markers oriented horizontally fill the dial.
Movement
At the core of the TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue ticks the automatic Calibre 11, based on the Sellita SW300-1 movement with a chronograph module from Dubois-Depraz. While not revolutionary like the original Monaco movement, the Calibre 11 ensures precision timekeeping and a power reserve of 40 hours when fully wound. The transparent caseback allows a glimpse inside, revealing the inner workings of this exquisite timepiece.
The blue perforated calfskin leather strap of the Monaco Racing Blue is more than just an accessory; it pays homage to the Bleu de France, the paint used by the French national motor racing team in the 1920s. This choice of color further solidifies the watch’s association with motorsport and adds a touch of vintage charm.
Price
The TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue is a limited edition timepiece, with only 1000 pieces available. Each watch is individually numbered, with “One of 1000” engraved on the caseback, emphasizing its exclusivity and collectible nature. The new Tag Heuer Racing Blue retails for CHF 9,000 (10,380 USD)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends heritage, design excellence, and cultural significance. Its rich history, association with Steve McQueen, and continuous evolution make it a timepiece that transcends generations and trends. From the captivating dial to the iconic left-side crown, every aspect of this watch exudes elegance and sophistication. Its limited edition status adds a touch of exclusivity, making it a treasured addition to any watch collection.