Introducing: The TAG Heuer Monaco Bamford

March 21, 2018

Following their official watch customization partnership last year, TAG Heuer and Bamford Watch Department have announced a new special edition Monaco that combines a Bamford-style dial color treatment with a carbon case. Based on the Calibre 11 Monaco, the TAG Heuer Monaco Bamford?mixes the case and dial layout of the McQueen-worn design we know and love but evolves the format with the use of a bright blue highlight color and a rather fitting carbon case.? After the 2017 launch of an OEM-supported watch customization platform with TAG Heuer (along with Zenith and Bulgari), this new carbon Monaco is a a further step in the relationship between LVMH and Bamford, with TAG Heuer supporting not just a customized watch, but an entirely distinct expression of the Monaco, one of its most classic models.? 39mm of carbon for a classic Monaco shape with an entirely distinct appeal. Initial Thoughts While this isn't the only Monaco ever made with a carbon case (remember the Monaco V4 Phantom in carbon composite?), this is an exclusive carbon treatment of the classic Monaco case and it suggests a growing confidence in the Bamford partnership and, providing you like "aquablue," it looks great.? While the Monaco Bamford may be a bit too bold for some diehard fans of the format, I dig it. I like that it does nothing to threaten the existence or legitimacy of the more classic Monaco while still managing to take the Monaco in a new direction that maintains it's connection with motorsports. Also, call me crazy, but compared to the V4 case style, the Monaco Bamford also manages to retain some of the classic appeal of the McQueen-inspired pieces. While rendered in carbon, the case is still 39mm wide and the crown remains at its legacy nine o'clock position. As for the use of Gulf-like "aquablue" (a Bamford signature) for all of the dial markings and accents, you're either going to like it or ?hate it, but I think it's a confident use of the color and a nice way to set off an otherwise all-black design.? The Basics Brand: TAG Heuer and Bamford Watch DepartmentModel: ?Monaco Bamford Reference Number: CAW2190.FC6437?Diameter: 39mmCase Material: CarbonDial Color: Light blue on blackIndexes: AppliedWater Resistance: 100 metersStrap/Bracelet: Black alligator leather The Movement Caliber: TAG Heuer Caliber 11Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, 30 minute chronograph, and datePower Reserve: 40 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 4 Hz (28,800 vph)Jewels: 59 Pricing & Availability Price: TBDAvailability: Exclusive to TAG Heuer boutiques and select online TAG Heuer boutiques.?For more click here.