A car race ends when the checkered flag falls. For the Monaco watch, the race has never stopped since 1969. TAG Heuer proves it once again with the launch of an unprecedented variation. This version recalls the sporting origins of the model, popularized, it should be remembered, by the actor Steve McQueen who wore it on his wrist in the film Le Mans, released in cinemas in 1971. It indeed bears a name dear to the heart. enthusiasts, the Gulf tanker, whose duo of colors, blue, sky and orange, has adorned the finest racing cars for over 50 years. Admittedly, TAG Heuer had already designed pieces of this type, but this new variant pushes the cursor upwards in a particular category, sport-chic.
TAG Heuer Monaco Gulf Special Edition watch. Brushed and polished steel case. Size: 39mm. Automatic chronograph movement, Heuer 02 caliber. Brushed sunray blue dial. Small seconds and date at 6 o’clock. Water resistant to 100 meters. Perforated blue leather strap with orange lining. Folding clasp. © DR
On this 2022 vintage piece, the famous colored bands are discreet and occupy only the right half of the dark blue dial. Yin and yang, doctor TAG and mister Heuer, character and discretion. Time (and the reaction of collectors) will tell if this is the most desirable of the Monaco Gulf versions. No doubt it is for this reason that the brand has chosen to specially dedicate its latest creation to the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, of which it is official sponsor. “For each edition, more than 200 cars representing 50 different car manufacturers and 21 countries compete. Selected for their historical value and their degree of originality, they compete in seven series covering the periods from the 1930s to the 1970s. The mythical Monegasque circuit is definitely very busy these days: the E-Prix, featuring electric single-seaters, was contested on April 30; the Monaco Historic Grand Prix was held on May 14 and 15; on May 29, it will be the turn of the F1 Grand Prix.
The minute counter linked to the chronograph function features the famous Gulf colours. The hand is lacquered orange, as is the seconds hand. © DR
On the technical side, the new Monaco Gulf is the first in the series to have the automatic manufacture Heuer 02 caliber. We note the presence of a special engraving whose color corresponds to Pantone orange from Gulf. Finally, to enhance the sporty yet sophisticated face of the watch, the strap is in perforated blue calfskin, combined with an orange lining. Another innovative element, aesthetic this time, while the distinctive Gulf signs are subtly highlighted, its emblematic colors also appear for the first time on the flange of the additional minute counter at 3 o’clock. By contrast, the Gulf logo on the dial is distinguished by its uniform white tint. A Monaco Gulf, descending from a princely lineage, decidedly very different from its predecessors.
