TAG Heuer Monaco is one of the brand's most iconic models, regularly featured in Onewatch.
Firstly, this is due to the model's importance to the company, which over the years has released several special editions. Secondly, Monaco is one of the most stylish square watches in history and, without exaggeration, one of the most iconic models overall. Celebrated on Steve McQueen's wrist, these watches symbolize the synthesis of design, motorsport heritage, and pop culture. Their bold and unconventional case has become a symbol of the era and the brand. In 2026, TAG Heuer plans a complete redesign of the Monaco, and now it's worth assessing whether the model retains its legendary status.
New Titanium Case: Evolution of a Classic
For some time, TAG Heuer has experimented with titanium in the Monaco line; however, the basic version was predominantly released in a stainless steel case. The new model changes this - the case is made from entirely new Grade 5 titanium with a matte finish, significantly superior to the previously used Grade 2 titanium. The signature square shape remains unchanged, as Monaco would not be Monaco without it, but now the case is sharper, thinner, and more refined. The diameter of 39 mm is preserved, so the watch still holds confidently on the wrist, but the thickness has been reduced to 13.9 mm, improving the proportions and perception of the model.
The case has acquired a more angular and faceted appearance: the curved side parts of the bezel of the previous version have been replaced with perfectly straight, square edges, and the lugs now have more obtuse angles. The new lugs give the watch a more "stable" feel on the wrist, and both changes create an illusion of a smaller size, emphasizing the square titanium design despite subtle departures from the original iconic shape. The functionality remains high: 100-meter water resistance, sapphire crystals on both sides of the case, and enlarged chronograph buttons ensure convenience and practicality.
Dial Variants: Choices for Different Styles
For the new version of Monaco, three dial options are offered:
- Sunburst Green with Black Subdials - a current trend, giving the watch a fresh and modern look.
- Reverse Panda Black Dial with 18-karat 5N rose gold accents on the dial and case.
- Classic Steve McQueen Blue with silver opaline subdials and bright red details (model pictured).
Overall, the dial design has remained without significant changes, except for the replacement of the Heuer logo with the full TAG Heuer name and some subtle adjustments to the text and element placement that are not noticeable to the untrained observer. The red accents have become more expressive: the hands are wider, and the hour markers are more noticeable.
Next-Gen Movement: Caliber TH20-11
The main changes are hidden inside the case: the new model is equipped with the entirely in-house developed TAG Heuer caliber TH20-11 - a column wheel chronograph. This movement is exclusive to this version of Monaco and retains the signature positioning of the crown on the left and buttons on the right, as well as the traditional bi-compax layout with a continuously running seconds counter at 9 o'clock. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 80 hours. A feature is the new skeletonized rotor mass in the shape of the TAG Heuer shield. Over the years, the brand has refined and optimized this automatic caliber compared to the base version TH20-00, ensuring a high level of reliability and quality. Now the movement comes with a five-year warranty.
Strap and Clasp: Style and Comfort Combination
The finishing touch of the model is a black leather strap with black stitching and signature perforations in a racing style - an element familiar to motorsport fans and TAG Heuer collections. The strap is equipped with a folding clasp with buttons, made of Grade 5 titanium with a matte finish, matching the case. This clasp provides secure fixation and classic length adjustment.
Price and Availability TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph
The new model is already available in TAG Heuer boutiques. Recommended prices:
| Model | Price (GBP) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Titanium Version | £7,900 | $9,350 |
| Titanium + 5N Rose Gold | £11,000 | $13,050 |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | TAG Heuer |
| Model | Monaco Chronograph |
| References | CDW2181.FC8360 (blue dial) CDW2180.FC8360 (green dial) CDW2150.FC8360 (black dial) |
| Case Size | 39 mm (diameter) × 13.9 mm (thickness) |
| Case Material | Grade 5 Titanium (+ 18K 5N Rose Gold for version) |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters |
| Glass | Sapphire front and back |
| Dial | Blue, Sunburst Green, Black |
| Lug Width | 22.5 mm |
| Strap | Black perforated leather, titanium folding clasp with buttons |
| Movement | Caliber TH20-11, automatic, in-house |
| Power Reserve | 80 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph, 1/4 seconds, 30-minute counter |
| Availability | On sale |
The new TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph version combines classic design and modern technical solutions, which allows it to maintain its status as one of the most recognizable and sought-after chronographs in the world of watches. The improved titanium case, new movement, and variety of dials make the model relevant to collectors and motorsport enthusiasts.
