The visceral thrill of motorsport, the iconic livery of Gulf Oil, and the revolutionary design of the TAG Heuer Monaco converge once again in a captivating tribute: the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf (£9950).
This isn’t merely a re-edition; it’s a vibrant unleashing of the 1970s spirit onto the wrist, a direct salute to TAG Heuer’s enduring and legendary partnership with Gulf. With its unmistakable colour stripes and a vintage charm that resonates with both racing aficionados and discerning design connoisseurs, this limited-edition timepiece stands as a true emblem of speed and style.

The very soul of this watch is infused with the iconic racing palette that adorned Steve McQueen’s legendary Gulf-emblazoned racing suit. The silver-grained dial serves as the perfect canvas for the instantly recognisable and deeply evocative blue and orange stripes, boldly declaring its heritage.

Adding a touch of fierce dynamism is the central chronograph hand, lacquered in a striking orange, a vibrant punctuation mark against the dial’s textured backdrop. This chromatic harmony isn’t just visually arresting; it’s a direct link to the golden age of motorsport, a wearable reminder of the daring spirit that defined that era.

Encasing this iconic dial is a 39mm case forged from lightweight yet remarkably resilient titanium. This choice of material not only enhances the watch’s robustness but also ensures a comfortable presence on the wrist, ready for the demands of the racetrack and the adventures of everyday life.

Within this titanium fortress beats the iconic Calibre 11, the very movement that powered the original Monaco, a fearless take on automatic chronograph timekeeping that remains as relevant and admired today as it was decades ago. This automatic movement, operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), provides a power reserve of 40 hours and offers the essential functions of hours, minutes, seconds, a 1/4 second chronograph, a 30-minute counter, and a date display.

The attention to heritage extends beyond the dial and movement to the very strap that secures this masterpiece to the wrist. Embracing the past with a modern sensibility, this edition comes fitted with a white textile strap featuring distinctive orange stitching, crafted from a material reminiscent of McQueen’s own racing suit.

This thoughtful detail not only enhances the watch’s visual connection to its racing pedigree but also offers a unique tactile experience. Furthermore, an additional navy-blue calfskin leather strap is included, adding to its versatile racing character and allowing the wearer to tailor the watch’s aesthetic to their preference.

The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf is more than just a watch that tells time; it’s a tangible piece of motorsport history, a design icon reborn for a new generation. It’s a celebration of a legendary partnership, a nod to a cinematic icon, and a testament to TAG Heuer’s enduring commitment to innovation and style. For those who appreciate the thrill of the race and the beauty of exceptional design, this limited-edition Monaco is a compelling acquisition, a vibrant expression of a timeless legacy.