We practice the tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Bay

Like many watch brands, Tag Heuer regularly produces limited or special editions. But the difference and advantage is the brand’s history and involvement in top-tier motorsports. During the golden age of racing in the 1960s, racers wore vintage Wheyer watches. But nothing stands out like Monaco. The groundbreaking square watch is closely linked to Steve McQueen and Gulf Oil. Today we practice the latest Gulf-themed Monaco chronograph and declare it one of the best limited editions in recent history.

From afar, it is potentially easy to dismiss yet another McQueen-esque Monaco. After all, since the clock returned in 1998, the brand has leaned heavily towards the image of iconic actors. However, the Tag Heuer team continues to find ways to add new designs and details. We’ve recently spent some metal time with new watches and explored what makes it so special.

Tags Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Bay

When I first saw the new Monaco Chronograph x Bay, I knew there was something different from previous models with similar themes. Yes, two previous works have come back from Ratchakd Fonz in Switzerland until 2018. However, what these watches feature a dark blue dial. The new watch has a shattered shape and features a silver dial with the distinctive blue and orange stripes attached to most racers by British racing manager John Wire. In addition to actual races, these race cars were seen in the 1971 film Le Mans starring Steve McQueen. This watch celebrates the film as a limited edition of 971 pieces.

Refreshing and different light silver dials

In certain lighting, this Monaco dial looks white, giving it a fresh and airy look. Black elements such as two subdials, print time markers, fonts, and date window frames provide sharp clarity against light backgrounds. Another notable feature is the individual underlayers of the 30 minute and running seconds subdials. These have well-defined edges and are the details worthy of such a high-end chronograph.

The dial logo is rarely my bag, but the Gulf Coast coat of arms is a clear exception. I still remember one of the branded service stations on my way to my grandparents’ home. The giant spinning signs always gave off a friendly and welcoming look and I loved the colour combination. It’s strange to say about gas stations, but it sticks out as a reminder to head to see your beloved family. Aside from the logo, the colors are repeated with vertical stripes to the right of the dial. The orange recurs as the hand of the chronograph in the center. The watch maintains the use of applied horizontal indexes, but unlike previous Gulf themed watches, using Super Luminova, which is used only with the middle hand.

Sandblasted titanium case is the answer

The other big news for the latest Monaco Chronograph x Bay is the material for the case. TAG Heuer opted for the sandblasted Grade 2 Titanium Case, and it looks fantastic! The material is considered to be more advanced than typical stainless steel, but the watch gives it a more down-to-date technical look. This is very welcome and removes polished reflective surfaces from the sharp 39mm x 47.4mm case. It also helps to reduce the weight of this thick 15mm thick chronograph. Incidentally, the finish continues with a crown signed to the HEUER and a pusher on the left.

Modern Caliber 11 is “Fine”

With a movement like the internal Th20-00, this modern caliber 11 within Monaco feels like a slight disappointment. Yes, it was essential to maintain the position of the historic left-hand pusher along the original. Still, the 40-hour power reserve and chunky Serrata/Dubois de Plaz sandwich seem a bit inappropriate for watches competing between gorgeous chronographs. The positive is that the 59 Jewel Movement is known for its reliability. From my experience, it cannot be said all the time about caliber 11 in the 60s.

Shaking the white of summer

For those looking for a more traditional office-friendly look, the new Monaco x Gulf Coast will ship with a boring blue Calfskin strap. It’s a sensible and practical move, but I’m grateful that our test piece arrived wearing an additional white Nomex strap. The use of this fireproof material, often found in lace suits, is a new move worthy of applause. It works well as a strap material and should break nicely once the leather lining fits your wrist.

The white cloth strap sounds like a magnet for dirt. Thankfully, the materials are strong and durable, and can be easily cleaned with mild detergent or soap. Honestly, it looks very cool and the orange stitching provides the perfect finish. Another nice detail is the giant Heuer branded push button folding clasp. It is comfortable and runs with a case matching sandblast grade 2 titanium.

It’s a very Monaco wear experience, but it’s light

As the owner of the vintage Hoi Armonaco, I can safely state that such a watch is rarely very worn, if any. These watches are, but not in testosterone-fueled ways. Monaco feels like a classy and well-made tool. Certainly, the dial stripes derived from the racing suit give off a sporty feel, but the composition doesn’t look cheap. Another advantage is the lightness of the titanium construction of the case. However, be careful. You rarely buy a new, expensive watch without trying it. That advice doubles for every model in the Monaco Collection. The flat caseback and unique case shape make the design not work for everyone. Oddly, wrist size appears to be less important than wrist shape. Conclusion? Try one of these lovely pieces with local ads!

Final Thoughts

An important disclaimer is that I do not love all tags Heuer Monaco releases. This new light tone Gulf Coast Limited Edition is very impressive due to the dial design and case material. There is a white Nomex strap watch that reinforces the cool elements. My only reservation is the movement, but I think it’s a quirk that can be overcome if the wrist watch feels good. The tougher challenge is the price of €9,400/US$9,550/£8,300. Again, Monaco was by no means cheap. If you’re looking at a gorgeous lace-inspired chronograph that looks amazing on your wrist, this is definitely worth a look.

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