TAG Heuer rolls out a sleek new iteration of the Monaco to mark its longstanding association with the Gulf brand
There are few alliances in horology and motorsport as storied as that of TAG Heuer and Gulf. Born on the race tracks of the late 1960s and immortalised on screen in the 1971 cult classic Le Mans, this partnership has become a symbol of high-octane elegance.
It all began when Swiss racing driver Jo Siffert, the original Heuer ambassador and a key figure in the endurance racing scene, helped introduce the Monaco to Hollywood. Through Siffert, the timepiece made its way onto the wrist of Steve McQueen in Le Mans—clad in Gulf racing overalls with the signature livery, no less—sealing the watch’s place in both cinematic and motor racing legend.
Fast forward to today, and TAG Heuer continues to honour that shared legacy. The latest Monaco Chronograph x Gulf edition refines the iconic design, blending a sense of historical gravitas with familiar aesthetics.
The new Monaco Gulf. which boasts a 39mm brushed titanium case with a vintage-inspired left-placed crown, is paired with a raised sapphire crystal and a dial that roars retro motoring delight. Set against a fine-grained silver canvas, the combination of contrasting colours—black for the chronograph counters and vintage Heuer logo, and the Gulf’s unmistakable blue and orange stripes—anchor the look with a mix of dynamism and throwback allure.
Inside ticks the historic Calibre Heuer 11. One of the first automatic chronograph movements in watchmaking history, the groundbreaking engine gets a new lease of life in this homage timepiece, and is visible via an open case back.
Limited to 971 pieces to mark the 1971 release of Le Mans, the watch is complemented by a white strap made from the same fire-resistant fabric that’s used in professional racing suits—a nod to a world and an enduring partnership that has stayed the course from the past to the present.
