Slated to make its debut this summer, “Gran Truism: Based on a True Story” showcases an icon in time: TAG Heuer and the Monaco. In a perfect fusion of timeless elegance and a spirit that defies conventions, the TAG Heuer Monaco takes center stage in the upcoming film, “Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story.” Drawing inspiration from the iconic Monaco watches of the early 1970s, the TAG Heuer Monaco watch symbolizes the pursuit of breaking boundaries and embracing unique approaches to life – a sentiment perfectly mirrored in the remarkable journey of the film’s protagonists.

The TAG Heuer Monaco, with its distinctive square-shaped design, has long been an emblem of daring individuality and a commitment to doing things differently. Just as the Monaco collection challenged traditional watch designs, the characters in “Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story” embark on an extraordinary journey that redefines their lives. The film, set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of motorsport, unveils the incredible true story of an unlikely team of underdogs.

At its heart is the narrative of a struggling working-class gamer, portrayed by Archie Madekwe, who finds himself on a path to greatness. Alongside him is a failed former racecar driver, played by David Harbour, and an idealistic motorsport executive, portrayed by Orlando Bloom. As the characters unite to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, they epitomize the very essence of the TAG Heuer Monaco’s philosophy – defying conventions and pursuing dreams against all odds.

In a stroke of seamless integration, the TAG Heuer Monaco graces the wrist of “Danny Moore,” the charismatic motorsport executive portrayed by Orlando Bloom in the film. The watch becomes a symbol not only of Moore’s refined taste but also of his unyielding determination to challenge norms and carve his own path in the competitive world of racing.

As the film hurtles audiences through the highs and lows of an incredible journey, the TAG Heuer Monaco remains a constant. The square timepiece, an icon in the watchmaking world, is an automatic chronograph – offered on either a stainless steel bracelet ($7,700) or on a blue leather strap ($7,500). The watch is powered by the in-house-made Heuer 02 automatic mechanical movement with 80 hours of power reserve and a vertical clutch column-wheel chronograph. It is water resistant to 100 meters.

 

Meet the TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue

This news, as great as it is, may have been surpassed by the recent unveiling of the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue limited edition  watch – a tribute to French Racing blue. And another nod to movie making legends.

In 1969, when the brand introduced the model, it brought about a revolution in the watchmaking industry. It presented a timepiece unlike any other available, featuring the pioneering Calibre 11 movement housed within the first square cased water-resistant chronograph. This groundbreaking design statement was named the Heuer Monaco, inspired by the legendary principality renowned for hosting Formula 1 races. This enduring connection remains integral to TAG Heuer’s identity.

For many, the TAG Heuer Monaco will forever be linked to one of the greatest actors of his generation, Steve McQueen. During the filming of Le Mans in 1970, McQueen chose to don the same racing suit and watch as Jo Siffert, a professional driver and personal trainer. This move aimed to embody the genuine racing driver persona, transforming him into a style icon and proudly showcasing the Heuer Monaco timepiece.

Over time, the TAG Heuer Monaco has evolved, incorporating novel materials, technologies, and design components that exemplify the brand’s avant-garde spirit. The newest iteration, the Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue, pays tribute to the rich racing heritage and TAG Heuer’s profound influence on the field.

Priced at $9,200, this watch features a mesmerizing silvered sunray brushed dial reminiscent of vintage sports car dashboards from the 1920s and 1930s. The dial boasts eight applied silvered hour markers and 12 blue dot markers, ensuring easy time reading. A distinctive faceted baton marker with a vibrant yellow stripe at 12 o’clock serves as a direct link to the central hand of the chronograph.

Enhanced with blue Super-LumiNova®, the hour and minute hands offer excellent visibility in any lighting condition. Adding a pop of color, the central hand is lacquered in lime yellow. Together, these design elements seamlessly blend to create the striking TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue, capturing the essence of the automotive world.

The watch is driven by the Calibre 11 automatic chronograph movement, encased in sandblasted grade 2 titanium, which ensures durability and lightness. A sapphire caseback provides a glimpse into the movement within. The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue is accompanied by a perforated blue calfskin strap, a signature feature for racing-related watches. The strap is fastened with a titanium folding clasp featuring the engraved Heuer logo.

The caseback of the Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue is etched with the limited edition designation “One of 1000,” and the watch is presented in specially designed vibrant blue packaging with lime yellow accents.

Technical Specs of the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Racing Blue

Movement: Calibre 11 Automatic

Functions:  Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph

Dial: Silver sunray brushed dial 2 counters:    3 o’clock: blue opaline permanent second indicator; rhodium plated hand;   9 o’clock: blue opaline minute chronograph counter; rhodium plated hand 6 o’clock angled date, Rhodium plated, polished applied indexes, rhodium plated hour and minute hands with blue Super-LumiNova®, Lime yellow lacquered central hand, Black HEUER printed logo
MONACO AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH SWISS MADE printed

Case: 39 mm diameter, Grade 2 titanium sandblasted case Beveled, domed sapphire crystal, Grade 2 titanium crown
Sapphire caseback, Water resistance: 100 meters