The Story of TAG Heuer and the First Automatic Chronograph

In 1969, while Omega was busy making history with the first watch on the moon, a consortium of watchmakers led by Heuer, along with Buren, Breitling, and Dubois Débraz, were in a fierce competition against Zenith to create the first automatic chronograph. This quest, lesser-known but equally monumental, also saw participation from Seiko in Japan, though their involvement often remains underreported. 

Heuer’s Pioneering Spirit

Up until the late 1960s, modular chronographs and automatic watches existed independently. However, combining these two innovations into a single timepiece had never been accomplished. Zenith pursued an integrated automatic chronograph, but Heuer’s consortium opted for a modular approach, leading to the creation of the caliber 11 and its successor, the caliber 12. This groundbreaking development marked the birth of the first automatic modular chronograph.

To showcase their new movement, Heuer launched the Monaco line. Named after the prestigious Formula 1 race, the Monaco Grand Prix, this watch was a bold departure from traditional designs. Its large, square 39mm case was unprecedented for the time, making a strong statement in the world of sports chronographs.

The Monaco’s distinctive design includes a left-side crown and right-side pushers – a clear indicator of the caliber 12’s unique configuration. Unlike modern modular chronographs, where the module sits atop the base movement, the caliber 12’s micro-rotor automatic movement is cleverly sandwiched between the dial and the chronograph module. This arrangement not only distinguished the Monaco aesthetically but also mechanically, avoiding the common offset of pushers seen in other modular chronographs.

TAG Heuer has expertly balanced nostalgia and innovation within the Monaco line. After a hiatus in the 1980s and early 1990s, the Monaco was reintroduced in the mid-1990s, maintaining its original charm while serving as a platform for experimental calibers. This commitment to heritage and innovation is evident in the 2019 Monaco Heuer 02. 

The Modern Monaco: Heuer 02

The Monaco Heuer 02, featuring TAG Heuer’s in-house movement, boasts an integrated chronograph with an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The modern design retains the iconic aesthetic while offering improved functionality and serviceability. Unlike the modular versions with their ETA-based calibers, the Heuer 02 showcases TAG Heuer’s advancements in horology, with the crown and pushers on the same side, enhancing user experience. 

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

The Heuer 02 hides the running seconds subtly at six o’clock, focusing on the hours and minutes counters, reminiscent of the original calibers 11 and 12. This thoughtful design choice ensures that the Monaco remains a legible and functional racing chronograph, staying true to its roots while embracing modern technology.

The choice between a vintage Monaco with the historically significant caliber 12 and a modern Monaco Heuer 02 comes down to personal preference and budget. Vintage models command higher prices due to their historical importance, while modern versions offer the benefits of contemporary craftsmanship and ease of maintenance. 

The Monaco’s versatility is reflected in its various dial options and the choice between a classic leather strap or a robust bracelet. Vintage models often feature thin, lightweight bracelets that add to their charm, while modern versions provide more solid and comfortable options.

TAG Heuer has masterfully preserved the essence of the Monaco, a symbol of the brand’s enduring connection to racing. Whether you prefer the historic significance of a vintage model or the cutting-edge technology of a modern version, the Monaco remains a testament to TAG Heuer’s innovative spirit and commitment to excellence in the world of motorsport.

Founded in 2013, the company based in Zug, Switzerland, is now one of the leading providers of CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) and vintage watches. In addition to its core business in online retail, CHRONEXT now also operates exclusive brick-and-mortar boutiques and lounges in locations around the world such as Hamburg, Munich, Berlin, Zurich and Hong Kong.

CHRONEXT combines the convenience of an online shop with the first-class service of a boutique and supports its customers in all phases of purchasing and owning a luxury watch. Thanks to its hybrid business model, the company can offer its own watches as well as stock from manufacturers, retailers and private sellers, giving it access to a range of over 7,000 models. CHRONEXT is responsible for controlling the entire process, which is ensured by a team of around ten in-house watchmakers. They check each watch in a 17-stage authenticity and quality control process and then issue a 24-month guarantee.

To date, CHRONEXT has helped over 175,000 customers in more than 60 countries to buy and sell their watches.