Monday, 24 August 2026

Two Limited-edition 38mm TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph Watches

TAG Heuer proudly launches two 38mm TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph models in tribute to the Dutch Grand Prix. At Circuit Zandvoort, the compact layout creates a racing experience defined by wheel-to-wheel intensity, where every corner demands total commitment and precision handling to meet the ultimate challenge. Drawing inspiration from this legendary circuit, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 collection opens a new chapter; upholding the brand’s signature racing-inspired lifestyle aesthetic, it expands the Solargraph solar-powered lineup with a refined 38mm model. The best TAG Heuer Formula 1 replica watches at captainthewatch.

The 38mm case reimagines the style on the wrist with more compact proportions. Both limited-edition models share a highly consistent visual identity. A grey dial sets a refined tone, accented by an orange-and-red minute track that creates a striking visual contrast. The design is clean and pure; color serves not merely as decoration but as a functional element for clear information display. The case structure draws inspiration from the original TAG Heuer Formula 1 series; while retaining the iconic silhouette, the proportions have been optimized to showcase the classic collection's contemporary spirit in a more refined size.

The bidirectional rotating bezel encircling the dial features the signature "Daisy" pattern and is crafted from TH-Polylight material. This innovative material combines exceptional durability with lightness, offering a unique tactile experience. The bezel frames the watch's profile and operates with smooth precision, further underscoring the brand's deep-rooted heritage in professional timekeeping and measurement.

A date window at 3 o'clock integrates naturally into the layout, maintaining the dial's visual balance. The hands echo the classic design of the original TAG Heuer Formula 1 series—including the iconic hour hand shape—fully embodying the collection's enduring design language. Their clean contours ensure intuitive, at-a-glance readability. Applied hour markers are coated with eggshell-colored Super-LumiNova®, ensuring excellent legibility in varying lighting conditions, including low-light environments. Iconic shield-shaped markers at 6, 9, and 12 o'clock serve as consistent visual elements, unifying the dial structures of both timepieces.

The first limited-edition model is restricted to 1,500 pieces worldwide and features a rubber strap, upholding the pure racing DNA of the sport. The second model is limited to 1,000 pieces worldwide and comes with a three-row stainless steel bracelet, interpreting racing aesthetics with a more modern flair. Both timepieces come in a dedicated presentation box featuring the inscription "TAG Heuer Formula 1 Limited Edition" on the interior.

Powered by the Solargraph solar movement, the watch efficiently converts natural and artificial light into a virtually limitless energy source. Just one minute of exposure to sunlight is enough to power the watch for a full day. It reaches a full charge after 40 hours of light exposure, and the stored energy is sufficient to keep it running for up to 10 months, even in total darkness. Should it stop running, a mere ten seconds of light exposure is enough to restart it. The energy storage unit boasts a lifespan of 15 years, ensuring long-lasting reliability https://www.captainthewatch.is/.


 

Sunday, 9 August 2026

TAG Heuer Monaco 2026

2026 TAG Heuer Monaco TH20-11, titanium case, 39mm size. Its crown is located on the left side of the case, featuring a "left-hand crown" layout. The original Monaco released in 1969 featured a crown on the left; the new-generation TAG Heuer Monaco replica with the TH20-11 movement maintains this same configuration, staying true to the vintage model.

The 1969 Monaco featured TAG Heuer’s first automatic chronograph movement, the Calibre 11—developed jointly by TAG Heuer, Breitling, and Hamilton—which utilized a micro-rotor combined with a chronograph module. To emphasize its automatic winding capability, the crown was deliberately placed on the left side, signaling that manual winding was unnecessary. This design feature has endured to the present day; indeed, one could argue that the Monaco with the left-hand crown is the "true" Monaco.

 It measures 39 mm—though actually 39.4 mm, representing a slight increase. As for thickness, it is 13.8 mm, making it 1 mm thinner than the previous generation.The square dial features a circular minute track, encircled by Monaco’s signature horizontal hour markers—three-dimensional metal indices arranged horizontally. Two square sub-dials flank the center, while the date display sits at the 6 o'clock position. The dial design—a circle within a square—is symmetrical and harmonious, a classic aesthetic that requires no alteration.

The new-generation Monaco TH20-11 features some adjustments. First, the logo on the new Monaco is the shield-shaped "TAG HEUER" emblem. In contrast, the earlier "left-hand crown" Monaco models bore only the "HEUER" name, omitting "TAG." This is because the TAG Group acquired Heuer in 1986—subsequently rebranding as TAG Heuer—so many Monaco models retained only the "HEUER" logo to remain faithful to the original historical design. It features two sub-dials—a small seconds dial on the left and a 30-minute chronograph counter on the right—marking a departure from previous Monaco models. Additionally, on this new-generation Monaco, the sub-dials are recessed and feature distinctly beveled edges, a design detail not found on earlier versions.

The most significant update to the new-generation Monaco TH20-11 is the transition of the entire lineup to titanium cases. While the extensive Monaco family has previously featured models in titanium, ceramic, and carbon fiber, the "authentic" lineage—particularly "left-hand crown" variants—had historically adhered to the original vintage design by retaining the standard steel case. The shift to titanium across the entire range comes as a genuine surprise. This change significantly reduces the watch's weight, offering a more comfortable wearing experience compared to the steel version. Naturally, the titanium case has a slightly greyer appearance than the silvery steel one.

The in-house TH20 series automatic chronograph movement was developed under the leadership of Carole Forestier-Kasapi—a renowned Swiss watchmaker and TAG Heuer’s Movement Director—as an evolution of the Calibre 02. It features a combination of a column wheel and a vertical clutch; the vertical clutch is positioned next to the central rotor and is visible through an opening in the bridge. Key highlights of the movement include an 80-hour power reserve, high reliability, and extended service intervals, all backed by a five-year warranty. The TH20 movement has now been fully rolled out across TAG Heuer’s flagship collections, the Carrera and the Monaco.