The Swiss luxury watchmaker is once again surprising clients and collectors with a bold new interpretation of its famed racing chronograph: the TAG Heuer Monaco Purple Dial Limited Edition. Born in 1969, the rule-defying square-shaped chronograph has kept its maverick spirit alive and thriving through the decades, with many statement and sought-after variations of its original blue dial.
In 2022 the brand is releasing a never-seen-before edition of only 500 numbered pieces. The new TAG Heuer Monaco Purple Dial Limited Edition combines its unmistakable heritage with fresh and distinctive finishes. The 39-mm square case in fine-brushed and polished steel houses an elegantly imagined dial in a rich purple colour. The dial gradient – from lighter purple in the centre to darker purple at the edge – adds depth and sophistication to the piece, while the rhodium-plated indexes and hands with white Super-LumiNova® and the two black opalin sub-counters subtly enhance the unexpected smoky design.
Connoisseurs of the TAG Heuer Monaco lineage might recognise a subtle parallel with the very early Heuer Monaco reference 1113B, the Chronomatic version launched at the beginning of 1969, as well as the transitional series – before what is known as the “McQueen” – and the reference 1533 Calibre 15. These pieces used a different dial finish with a metallic blue paint over the brass plate. Over time, the dials have shown a tendency to patina from blue to a similar purple colour, sometimes slightly faded in the centre and darker around the edges.
In the 2022 interpretation, TAG Heuer’s in-house chronograph movement, Calibre Heuer 02, is clearly visible through the sapphire case back, and features a customised oscillating mass, column wheel, and engravings, with purple details. It offers outstanding timekeeping performance including a power reserve of 80 hours. For an added special touch, the black alligator strap is also lined with purple on the inside and the case back is engraved with the piece’s number of XXX/500.
With this vibrant new aesthetic, the TAG Heuer Monaco Purple Dial Limited Edition explores new design territories without losing sight of its distinctive heritage. Available from July 2022, the chronograph will be sold exclusively in TAG Heuer boutiques. Learn more at tagheuer.com
