Limited to 500 pieces, the latest iteration of this iconic sports watch is mesmerizing inside and out.
Some things only get better with age. The TAG Heuer Monaco is one of them. Debuting in 1969 as the very first, waterproof automatic chronograph in a square case, the Monaco’s design was not just ahead of its time, its construction was a notable feat considering the technology of the day – making chronograph watches was challenging enough, but the Monaco raised the bar with its square design. To ensure a good seal, the square gaskets had to be specially constructed. Fitted with the renowned Calibre 11, the edgy sports watch was set to be an icon.
More than 50 years later, the Monaco lineage is thriving, with many sought-after statement interpretations and variations of its original blue dial. This year, TAG Heuer releases an all-new edition limited to 500 numbered pieces. Housed in a 39mm square case made from fine-brushed, polished stainless steel, the Monaco Purple Dial Limited Edition features a dial in a rich purple gradient – the lighter purple in the centre deepens at the edge, adding depth. Perfectly complementing this colour scheme are the rhodium-plated indexes and hands with white Super-LumiNova® and the two black opaline sub-counters.
Aficionados of the Monaco lineage might draw a subtle parallel with the very early Heuer Monaco reference 1113B (the Chronomatic version launched at the beginning of 1969) and the transitional series – before what is known as the “McQueen” – and the reference 1533 Calibre 15. Due to a different dial finish with a metallic blue paint over the brass plate, the dials on these pieces, over time, tended to patinate from blue to a similar dégradé purple gradient featured on this new limited edition. For an added special touch, the black alligator strap is also lined with purple on the inside while the case back of each numbered piece is engraved with XXX/500.
TAG Heuer’s in-house chronograph movement, Calibre Heuer 02, can be observed clearly through the sapphire case back, and features a customised oscillating mass, column wheel, and engravings, with matching purple details. With a power reserve of 80 hours, its timekeeping performance is outstanding.
Check out this vibrant new aesthetic sold exclusively in TAG Heuer boutiques.
Images courtesy of TAG Heuer, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
Related Links:
TAG Heuer Autavia: Drive to Survive
