Felix Scholz
2015 saw TAG Heuer release the bold Heuer 01, the smart Carrera Connected and a faithful re-edition of one of the most iconic watches ever made the Monaco.Heuer made a lot of cool watches, but none cooler than the Heuer Monaco. Instantly recognisable with its square case, and powered by the legendary Calibre 11, there's no doubting the Monaco's cred.The frosting on the ice-cool cake is Steve McQueen. The King of Cool wore one in the 1971 film Le Mans, ensuring that the Monaco entered the pantheon of totemic objects that have come to symbolise the icon for manly men everywhere. The 2015 version is an impressively faithful reissue of the 1969 original.The most obvious feature of the watch is its case, and TAG Heuer haven't messed with it too much. The slightly cushioned flanks, brushed finishes and short lugs are all still very much in evidence, as is the left-hand winding crown that's the tell-tale sign of the Calibre 11. This movement is one of the first automatic chronographs developed, and hugely important to the brand's legacy so it's the only choice for this watch.The Monaco's dial clearly demonstrates the care TAG Heuer have gone to in getting this watch right. Sure it's that classic, beautiful matte blue with vintage Heuer logo and popping details in go-faster red. But it's the horizontal, faceted indices that really stand out, and capture the retro spirit of the original. It all adds up to a watch that makes you a little cooler for wearing it.RRP A$7,500 TAGHEUER Download the complete Holiday Buying Guide here.
18.12.15