TAG Heuer Monaco Gulf Calibre 11 automatic 39 mm Full Set 2020

The story of the Monaco

In 1969, Heuer made a lasting impression by launching the Monaco, which became the first waterproof and square automatic chronograph! The release of the movie “Le Mans” in 1971 propelled the Monaco to the forefront of the international scene thanks to Steve McQueen, who wore a Heuer Monaco in the movie, providing a series of iconic images that, even today, are a central element of TAG Heuer's marketing campaigns.

The original version of the Heuer Monaco was available for less than 10 years, having been introduced in 1969 and the last version having been produced around 1978. However, TAG Heuer's reissues of the Monaco have been very successful, having been offered in a variety of models over the past 25 years. Indeed, the Monaco chronograph may have been ahead of its time in the 1970s, but it has established itself as a modern classic in the 21st century.

Two legendary brands

The story of the Monaco Gulf begins with a deep passion for top-level motor sports. The Gulf brand became an icon in the world of racing thanks to its emblematic colors, light blue and bright orange, which adorned the cars of its sponsored teams. During the golden age of motor racing, in the 1960s and 1970s, its main partner, JW Automotive Engineering, made its mark on the history of endurance racing.

JW Automotive Engineering is best known for its participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning the overall classification in 1968, 1969 and 1975. The team has also featured some of the most famous drivers, including Jo Siffert, the legendary Swiss driver, in the mythical Porsche 917 in 1970 and 1971.

Jo Siffert, a friend of Heuer and one of the brand's first ambassadors, was also Steve McQueen's driving instructor for the movie “Le Mans”. This is how the link between Gulf, TAG Heuer and Porsche came about: Jo Siffert at the wheel of the Porsche 917 in Gulf colors, and Steve McQueen driving the same car in the cult movie, with a Monaco on his wrist. This historic partnership solidified the legendary status of the Monaco.

In 2005, to honor this association, TAG Heuer created a limited edition of the Monaco in Gulf colors. Since then, each watch in this collection has been a resounding success, becoming highly prized collector's items. There have been a total of 6 different versions.

But the version we are most interested in here is the 2018 edition! TAG Heuer strikes hard with an even more striking version of the Monaco Gulf Edition, powered by a Calibre 11 and dressed in the legendary petrol blue dial...

The model

The design of the Monaco Calibre 11 Gulf special edition obviously recalls the colors of this iconic brand. The 39 mm size, the crown on the left, the legendary petrol blue dial with the two white counters, the date window at 6 o'clock, the horizontal diamond-cut hour markers, the vintage Heuer logo inscription, the automatic Calibre 11 Chrono inside with date, and water resistance to 100 meters, all the attributes of the Monaco are combined. To recall its origins and its sporting credentials, two broad stripes, one light blue and one orange, have been added to the dial. The Gulf logo is also displayed at 6 o'clock.

A blue leather strap with orange lining and stitching completes the piece, an elegant touch reminiscent of the Gulf heritage and the famous blue and orange sports car of the “King of Cool”, Steve McQueen. Note the presence of a folding clasp with the vintage “Heuer” logo!

The package

This 2020 Monaco Gulf is in excellent condition. It will be delivered to you as a Full Set, with its box and all its documents. This model has been authenticated, polished and checked by our approved watchmaker and as such benefits from our Lepage Vintage 1-year warranty.