The TAG Heuer Monaco collection has been constantly reinventing itself since 1969, the year TAG Heuer first became involved in Formula 1. Unsurprisingly, the model's strong personality has appealed not only to the greatest drivers thanks to its racing DNA, but also to actors and artists who appreciate its bold design. With TAG Heuer's big comeback this year as the official timekeeper of F1, which is itself celebrating its 75th anniversary, it was only natural to pay tribute to this double event with a timepiece that leaves no one indifferent.
THE SPIRIT OF F1
Whether on the front or back, everything about this limited edition evokes the world of F1, whose logo appears discreetly beneath the 6 o'clock counter that looks as if it has been taken straight from an engine part or been inspired by a race track. The official F1 font is also picked up on the two chronograph counters that feature several racing-specific design elements: the white and yellow starting grid; the unforgettable "Lights out & away we go" catch-phrase by race commentator David Croft; as well as nods to the finish line against a tarmac backdrop. On the back, the racing spirit continues with the brushed checkered finish on the bridges and the hand-painted red and white decorations adorning the brushed titanium oscillating weight, itself engraved with the inscription "Formula 1 Limited Edition 1/10", placing exclusivity firmly in pole position !
AT THE HEART OF HAUTE HORLOGERIE
As befits the competitive world celebrated by this model, automo-tive codes merge with those of Haute Horlogerie that are unmistakably present in this limited edition. Few brands have the expertise to produce their own split-seconds chronographs, which record intermediate (split) times. TAG Heuer's extensive experience in sports timing gives it a head start, embodied in the ultra-lightweight titanium TH81-00 automatic caliber featuring highly refined hand-finished details. The feat also lies in its seamless integration with the perfectly ergonomic white ceramic case, without the need for an intermediate steel container as is often required with ceramic cases, due to the complexity involved in machining this high-tech material. Harmoniously integrated into the case middle, the shaped pushers and brushed ceramic crown deserve a special mention. The fact that the entire caseback is made from a single piece of sapphire posed an additional challenge and makes the view of the movement even more fascinating. Finally, this technological feat at the pinnacle of the TAG Heuer Monaco collection magnificently serves the base of the pyramid, where the more accessible models are distinguished by the same immediately recognizable aesthetic personality.
Because you are a WorldTempus reader, we are delighted to offer you the digital version of the "GMT 92", which you can download here.
