More than half a century after its launch, the iconic TAG Heuer Monaco begins a new chapter with a more ergonomic design that increases comfort and refinement. Indeed, three new models have just been presented at Watches & Wonders 2026, which also feature the in-house automatic calibre TH20-11.
“Since 1969, the TAG Heuer Monaco has left an indelible mark on the watchmaking industry. It was the first square, water-resistant chronograph wristwatch, powered by the first automatic chronograph movement commercially available: the Calibre 11. It was unlike any other watch of its time.
In the mid-1960s, the world began to move away from manual-winding mechanical watches, which required daily winding to keep the mechanism running. The rise of automatic watches introduced a new level of convenience. Users quickly became accustomed to the natural movement of their body powering their watches.
This shift posed a challenge for Heuer. The company was exclusively dedicated to producing chronograph wristwatches, and there was not yet any automatic calibre capable of measuring elapsed time. In collaboration with watch industry partners, the plan known as ‘Project 99’ was launched to design and manufacture the first automatic chronograph mechanism.
Using a manual-wind base calibre with a Buren microrotor and a Dubois-Depraz chronograph module, the now-famous Calibre 11 made its debut on March 3, 1969, and went on sale shortly after. The technical requirements related to integrating the base movement and the module meant that the crown had to be placed on the left side of the case. This necessity became a distinctive feature. On one hand, it served as a practical reminder that daily winding was no longer necessary, and on the other, it improved ergonomics and functionality.”
Tag Heuer
Tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph New!
Today, TAG Heuer reinterprets its iconic square design with a newly crafted case. Drawing inspiration from the original reference 1133, launched more than 50 years ago, this new generation enhances the characteristic shape of the TAG Heuer Monaco, with dynamic lines that offer improved ergonomics and reinforce its contemporary character. A return to the roots of history and reference 1133. Many of these defining elements are now present in the new TAG Heuer Monaco chronograph.
Angled and sharp edges have been reinforced, the sapphire crystal is now more square in shape, and the case, measuring 39 mm and crafted from grade 5 titanium, has curved sides. The caseback has been redesigned to improve ergonomics. Additionally, the rounder and smaller section curves toward the edges, evoking a characteristic of the original design and enhancing overall comfort.
The dial has also been refined and improved. The typography and text placement have been carefully studied to ensure optimal legibility. The interplay between shapes and applied elements enhances the overall design without compromising clarity, and the contrasting sub-dials, combined with the mix of finishes, add depth and character. This new version is unmistakably a TAG Heuer Monaco, but goes even further.
The collection, presented in three color combinations, includes the signature TAG Heuer Monaco blue, directly inspired by the famous watch worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 movie Le Mans. A refined version in sunray-brushed, lacquered dark green draws inspiration from the codes of classic British Racing Green. Finally, an elegant black model is presented in a two-tone case of grade 5 titanium and 18-karat 5N rose gold.
Inside lies one of the most significant upgrades to the TAG Heuer Monaco chronograph: the new in-house calibre TH20-11. Based on TAG Heuer’s TH20-00 automatic calibre, which has become a staple for many of the brand’s chronographs. It features an 80-hour power reserve and a five-year warranty. It has a bicompax design, with auxiliary counters at three and nine o’clock, and a date window at six o’clock, a configuration that pays tribute to the original Calibre 11, hence its name: TH20-11. The most visible nod is the crown located on the left side of the case, a signature code of the TAG Heuer Monaco.
Each of the watches is paired with a racing-inspired strap featuring a newly designed grade 5 titanium folding clasp.
Price
The approximate retail price is €9,300 for the titanium-cased models and €13,000 for the model featuring rose gold elements. Tag Heuer
