The TAG Heuer Monaco is an icon, and due to its shape one of the most recognizable watches in the industry. For 55 years now the square-sized watch, strongly connected to motor racing, has been part of the (TAG) Heuer catalogue, usually in a relatively affordable price range. The one-off split-second Monaco that was unveiled in 2023 as the brands’ contribution to Only Watch was already an indicator that a higher complication would find its way to the square case, and a few weeks ago we got confirmation: the Monaco Split-Seconds Chronograph has arrived.
Forget about “relatively affordable”: this watch is a different animal compared to regular Monacos. Adding a split-seconds chronograph (in my opinion one of the most beautiful and under-rated complications) makes total sense given the background of the Monaco as a motorsports watch. Let’s dive into the watch.
The Split-seconds will be available in two versions, finished with either red or blue accents to the DLC-coated 41mm titanium case. What stands out immediately is the level of finishing of the case, a result of meticulous brushing, sandblasting and polishing. The same applies to every aspect of the TH81-00 movement which is prominently visible through the sapphire. The movement finds its base in the Vaucher VMF-6710, the go-to split second movement for the upper echelon. TAG Heuer is in good company of brands like Parmigiani and Richard Mille here.
However, in collaboration with Vaucher adjustments were made to make this movement unique. The split-second module has a good share of titanium components and a 65 hour power reserve. The pusher for counting the hours is located at 9 o’clock.
Putting the Split-Second chronograph next to a regular Monaco shows how different the watch is. Apart from the open-worked dial the polished sapphire bezel frames the slightly domed crystal, giving a more transparent view on the dial. This is repeated on the caseback.
The complication, choice of materials and the level of finishing indicate that this is not a cheap watch by any means. At €135,000 for each version the Monaco Split-Second Chronograph is more of a showcase, indicating the determination and passion of TAG Heuer in being a serious watchmaker. The watch will be available in June and it’s not a limited edition, but expect the total production per year to be less than 50.
