The modern TAG Heuer Monaco (Ref: CAW2111.FC6183) differs from the original 1969 model worn by Steve McQueen in several key technical areas. The most significant difference is the orientation of the crown and the movement. The modern CAW2111.FC6183 houses the Calibre 12, which places both the crown and chronograph pushers on the right side of the case. The original used the Calibre 11, a movement distinguished by its crown on the left side and pushers on the right.
From its founding in 1860, Heuer established a reputation for precision built on foundational innovations. Edouard Heuer's 1887 patent for the oscillating pinion remains a critical component in modern chronographs, while the 1916 "Mikrograph," the first stopwatch capable of measuring 1/100th of a second, secured the brand's role as an official Olympic timekeeper. This early focus on accuracy naturally led to a deep-seated connection with motorsports, where the brand's dashboard timers became essential equipment for rally drivers, laying the groundwork for an identity forged on the racetrack.
The brand's ties with racing was immortalized in the 1960s with a trio of legendary chronographs: the Carrera, Autavia, and the avant-garde Monaco. The Monaco, with its distinctive square case, became an icon on the wrist of Steve McQueen in the film Le Mans and was one of the first watches to house the groundbreaking Calibre 11 automatic chronograph movement. After its acquisition by Techniques d'Avant Garde (TAG) in 1985, the brand solidified its legendary status through a decades-long partnership with Formula 1.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 | Mint Condition, Light Signs of Wear Production: 2011 Contents: Full-set Genre: Sports Chronograph
Size: 39mm Thickness: 14.35mm Lug Width: 22mm
Case: Stainless steel square case, brushed and mirrored facets, light wear Bezel: Stainless steel, fixed, brushed and mirrored, light wear Dial: Blue sunburst dial, recessed sub-dials, applied markers, date at 6 o'clock Hands: broad pencil hands, red central chronograph hand
Crown: Stainless steel, push-pull crown and pushers, light wear Crystal: Domed sapphire crystal, light wear Bracelet: Black leather strap, light wear Caseback: Steel screw caseback, sapphire window, light wear Movement: Automatic Chronograph Caliber: Calibre 12