- Limited to 971 pieces, the new TAG Heuer Monaco x Gulf honours Steve McQueen and the brand’s racing history.
- Features Gulf’s signature blue and orange racing stripes, a vintage Heuer logo, and the classic left-side crown.
- Powered by the Calibre 11, the modern version of the 1969 automatic movement that helped define the original Monaco.
There are few watches more iconic in motorsport history than the TAG Heuer Monaco, made immortal when Steve McQueen wore it in the 1971 release of Le Mans to become a watch so inherently linked to the thrill of the racetrack.
Of course, when LVMH confirmed its renewed partnership with Formula 1 ahead of the 2025 season, many watch fans here in Australia were eagerly anticipating another stellar riff on the square-case legend that continues to define the genre.
We were fortunate enough to see the all-new Split Seconds at this year’s Watches & Wonders; we were even treated to one in DMARGE yellow. But now, as the chequered flag falls on the Monaco Grand Prix for another year, TAG Heuer return to an enduring fable within its catalogue; honouring a iconic Monaco release and its most-famous wearer.
Gulf Stripes, Retro Case, Left-Hand Crown: It’s All Here
Limited to 971 pieces globally, the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf brings together three cult symbols in the Swiss brand’s lookbook: the Monaco’s radical square case, the Gulf racing stripes, and the Heuer logo, no TAG in sight.
It’s a modern chronograph that looks like it could have rolled straight off a film set, and onto the grid at Monaco, but don’t be fooled: this isn’t just a simple livery update.
The new Monaco x Gulf sticks closely to the original 1969 layout, complete with the left-hand crown and pushers on the right, a subtle nod to its early automatic calibre roots. The case remains square, bold, and instantly recognisable, now finished in fine-grained silver with contrasting subdials and red hands.
What makes this Monaco special, however, is the Gulf detailing: bold blue and orange stripes that run vertically down the dial, referencing the colours worn by McQueen in Le Mans and the livery of the Porsche 917K he drove. The result is a chronograph that’s effortlessly retro, suitable for contemporary tastes. It’s almost as thought McQueen’s prop watch was set to hit the shelves for the first time.
Calibre 11 Powers a Modern Classic
Inside beats the TAG Heuer Calibre 11, a modern version of the original movement that made the Monaco famous. With its 40-hour power reserve and date window tucked neatly at 6 o’clock, it delivers the mechanical substance to match the styling. Whilst you can’t look beyond this piece’s obivous good looks, this isn’t a heritage piece for display; it’s a racing chronograph that still holds its own on the wrist in 2025.
Launched as part of a standout trio of Monaco models, the new TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf marks the brand’s debut as official title partner of the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco, the first time any watchmaker has ever held the role.
It’s a fitting milestone for a Swiss brand whose legacy is so deeply woven into the very streets of motorsport’s most iconic circuit. The watch is available now through TAG Heuer boutiques and select authorised dealers.
