First launched in 1969, the TAG Heuer Monaco defied convention with its distinctive square shape, left crown, brushed and polished case and blue dial. It also helms the title as the first water-resistant square chronograph wristwatch, further solidifying its status as an icon. Ahead of its time with its avant-garde aesthetics, it found admiration among creative visionaries like Sammy Davis Jr., Stanley Kubrick, and Steve McQueen.
Celebrating 55 years of the Monaco collection this year, the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph further redefines watch design. By reviewing its architecture and using light materials such as grade-5 titanium, the timepiece only weighs a mere 85 grams and achieves a singular appearance where sapphire crystal and transparency play a central role.
Fusing titanium and sapphire together, the timepiece impresses with its case crafted from a combination of half of each, enhancing its uniqueness.
Inside, the newly launched TH81-00 mechanical split-seconds chronograph caliber is crafted entirely in titanium, making this one of the lightest automatic chronograph movements ever created by TAG Heuer. This was created in partnership with the esteemed manufacturer Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier.
The result is a masterpiece that combines Swiss watchmaking craftmanship with cutting-edge technology. This split-seconds function, also called “rattrapante” in French, is a highly sophisticated and intricate mechanism that requires the most expert of watchmakers due to its complexity. It is capable of measuring two separate time intervals concurrently, providing a level of functionality that exceeds that of a regular chronograph. Whether timing laps on the racetrack or tracking multiple sporting events, the Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph offers unparalleled accuracy and versatility in its usage.
Two variations of this novelty are available, the first is a dynamic and sporty red variation inspired by the racing DNA of the Maison, and the second, a classic, timeless blue version, paying homage to the original color code of the Monaco.
The caseback, a portal to the soul of the watch, is crafted entirely from sapphire crystal, offering an unobstructed view of the intricate TH81-00 caliber within, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. The transparent caseback is ingeniously designed to give the impression of a floating oscillating weight, emphasizing the watch’s sophisticated architecture.
The oscillating weight is fashioned in the iconic TAG Heuer shield shape and features a brushed finish as well as a hand-painted powerful red or blue gradient, a TAG Heuer design signature reserved for its most exclusive timepieces.
The red or blue titanium rattrapante pusher at 9 o’clock matches the color of the rattrapante hand and highlights its split-seconds function, adding a dash of color to the ensemble. The small second subdial at 6 o’clock echoes the arches’ shape, while the words “Rattrapante” and “Chronograph” on the subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock are a subtle reminder of the watch’s technical feats.
Each individually numbered on the oscillating weight, these timepieces are accompanied by a hand-stitched calfskin strap with a fabric pattern.
TAG Heuer pushes once again the boundaries of timekeeping with the TAG Heuer Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph, through watchmaking craftmanship and avant-garde innovation. Redefining the meaning of precision, this timepiece pays homage to the Maison’s storied chronograph legacy and perfectly exemplifies TAG Heuer’s Haute Horlogerie d’Avant-Garde.
