This is TAG Heuer’s interpretation in watch form of “the early 2000s.” It’s now been 50 years since the Monaco debuted in 1969, and throughout 2019 TAG Heuer is releasing new limited-edition versions of the Monaco watch, each designed to reflect a different decade. Debuted in Japan and said to incorporate contemporary Japanese design philosophy, the new Monaco is the fourth and penultimate of the year.
Like previous watches in the series, the underlying form is that of the modern TAG Heuer Monaco — which is made to be about as close to the original as possible. That means similar sizing at 39mm as well as the unusual layout of lefthand crown and chronograph pushers on the righthand side of the case. While the groundbreaking 1969 Calibre 11 movement is a big part of the Monaco’s story, the movement inside is a new one, though it’s confusingly given the same Calibre 11 name. This modern movement is an automatic chronograph, like the original, but it is based on a Sellita SW 300 movement, with significant modification and a power reserve of 40 hours.
This design exercise has yielded attractive Monaco watches for each of the decades so far, and the new “1999–2009 Edition” fits right in. Whether you can identify the spirit of the 2000s or Japanese design philosophy informing the watch, the contrast and basic shapes make for a cool, slightly retro feel. Limited to just 169 pieces, it will have a price of $6,550.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
TAG Heuer Heritage Calibre Heuer 02 Chronograph Watch ($5,300)
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch ($5,350)
IWC Portugieser Chronograph Watch ($7,600)
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