TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton Watch Review
The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton celebrates the 80th Monaco Grand Prix while at the same time indulging horophiles with a compelling blend of attributes, including an openworked design and column-wheel chronograph movement. US-based Meehna Goldsmith provides her take on this latest interpretation of the 1969 icon.
Celebrating the 80th Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious races in motorsport. In existence since 1929, it’s part of the Triple Crown of racing which also includes the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. To celebrate this contest of grit, endurance and skill, TAG Heuer introduced the Monaco in 1969. Presented in an audacious square case and a striking blue dial, the model stood out from the typical round chronographs of the time.
The first square, automatic chronograph
However, the Heuer Monaco wasn’t the first square chronograph to hit the market. Interestingly, it was Rolex who presented one in 1940. However, the Monaco broke new ground as not only was it the first automatic chronograph to market (powered by the Calibre 11), but also the first waterproof automatic chronograph in a square case. The model got a boost of star power when Steve McQueen wore the watch in the film Le Mans, released in 1971.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton – the inspiration
Over the years, the Monaco has gone through various iterations. Although it was discontinued in the mid-1970s due to a tepid reception, it was revived in 1998 as part of TAG Heuer’s Vintage series and remained faithful to the original design. The Monaco then went through another renaissance in 2003, equipped with a fresh movement, in response, ironically, to Steven McQueen’s resurgence in popularity. The Calibre 360 movement measured time to an impressive 1/100th of a second, equivalent to an eye blink. Today the model stands as an icon for TAG Heuer, with a case that’s instantly recognisable and distinct from the mostly in-the-round crowd.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton – three models
To honour the 80th Monaco Grand Prix, TAG Heuer presents an evolution of the Monaco chronograph with the Monaco Skeleton. Presented in three dynamic models that expand the colour palette, they also open up the hood for a peek inside the engine.
TAG Heuer chose the dashing colours ‘Original Blue’, ‘Racing Red’ and ‘Turquoise’ to punctuate the models as a nod to the Monaco’s history. What would the Monaco Skeletons be without including the compelling blue hue that kicked off the model’s existence in 1969? That shade makes another appearance on the Skeleton dial but also accessorises the rearview. Seen through the sapphire case back, the blue colour graces the column-wheel and rotor engravings.
Following the same design scheme, the ‘Racing Red’ was inspired by the sparks that kick up as the Formula 1 cars dash around the track during the Monaco Grand Prix, while the ‘Turquoise’ model references the beautiful coastline seen in the principality where the race takes place.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton – legibility and visibility
All models feature a red shade on the chronograph indicators, making them stand out against the backdrop of the dial. After all, keeping track of interval timing during a race is crucial when fractions of a moment can separate the winner from the runner-up. In terms of design, Jack Heuer believed legibility and visibility were essential elements for a timing instrument. In keeping with this philosophy, all the carved indexes and hands, as well as the date window, receive a generous dip in Super-LumiNova® to illuminate the dial when light is scarce.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic
As TAG Heuer prides itself on innovation, the in-house Calibre Heuer 02 is a testament to that commitment. It was first presented in 2020 and drives all three of these new Monaco Skeleton models. As noted above, it employs the more advanced column wheel construction. In addition, it holds 80 hours of power reserve, over three-days-worth of juice. That’s an impressive feat, especially for a chronograph, when you realise how much energy it takes to drive that function.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton – sandblasted Grade 2 titanium
All three of the Monaco Skeleton models are cased in sandblasted Grade 2 titanium, a material known for its lightness and strength as well as its ability to resist corrosion. Included in the package is a bi-material strap composed of rubber and leather for a comfortable fit. The straps are supplied in black for the ‘Racing Red’ and ‘Turquoise’, and blue for the ‘Original Blue’.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton – closing thoughts
The Monaco is a legendary model in TAG Heuer’s lineup. It’s graced the wrists of racing greats such as Joe Siffert and Jochen Rindt. With the addition of the Monaco Skeleton to the collection, the brand maintains its avant-garde styling and state-of-the-art mechanics, offering a timepiece that will take you to the finish line on or off the track.
Further reading
Technical specifications
- Model: TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton
- Reference: CBL2182.FT6235
- Case: titanium Grade 2 sandblasted case, diameter 39 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to the front and exhibition caseback
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Movement: Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic, frequency 28,800 VpH (4Hz), 33 jewels, 80 hour power reserve
- Strap: blue calfskin & rubber strap with sandblasted Grade 2 titanium folding clasp
- Price – £9,350 (RRP as of 24.7.2023)
- Model: TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton
- Reference: CBL2183.FT6236
- Case: titanium Grade 2 sandblasted case, diameter 39 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to the front and exhibition caseback
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Movement: Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic, frequency 28,800 VpH (4Hz), 33 jewels, 80 hour power reserve
- Strap: black calfskin & rubber strap with sandblasted Grade 2 titanium folding clasp
- Price – £9,350 (RRP as of 24.7.2023)
- Model: TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Skeleton
- Reference: CBL2184.FT6236
- Case: black DLC titanium Grade 2 sandblasted case, diameter 39 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 metres), sapphire crystal to the front and exhibition caseback
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Movement: Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic, frequency 28,800 VpH (4Hz), 33 jewels, 80 hour power reserve
- Strap: black calfskin & rubber strap with sandblasted Grade 2 titanium folding clasp
- Price – £9,800 (RRP as of 24.7.2023)