SpotlightTAG Heuer’s Cinematic Connection Expands With The Monaco Chronograph In ‘Gran Turismo’

Arguably the most iconic square-shaped chronograph watch ever made, the TAG Heuer Monaco is named after the principality of Monaco—home to one of the most well-known Formula One racing circuits. This is of the brand’s three pillars associated with motor racing; the other two being the Carrera and Formula 1 lines. This year, the Monaco makes its return to motor-racing track on screen, as it will be seen in the upcoming film Gran Turismo. Based on a true story, the film revolves around ‘a struggling working-class gamer’, ‘a failed former race-car driver’, and ‘an idealistic motorsport executive’. Played by Archie Madekwe, David Harbour, and Orlando Bloom, respectively, these characters lay everything to risk, as they pursue a future in one of the most elite sports in the world. The film is expected to be a thrilling action-packed ride. And featured in Gran Turismo will be the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph in blue and steel, seen on the wrist of Orlando Bloom’s Danny Moore.

This year, the Monaco makes its return to motor-racing track on screen, as it will be seen in the upcoming film 'Gran Turismo'. The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph in blue and steel, seen on the wrist of Orlando Bloom’s Danny Moore, a motorsport executive

The Monaco In Gran Turismo

A flagship line for TAG Heuer, the Monaco was immortalised when an edition was seen in Le Mans (1971)—a fictional story set around the ‘24 Hours of Le Mans’ race, on the wrist of actor Steve McQueen. A modern-day edition will now be seen in Gran Turismo. This iteration features a blue dial, with 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters at three and nine o’clock, and a subtle small seconds sub-dial at six. The slanted chronograph pushers are seen on the right-hand side of the 39mm square case in steel, flanking the crown at three. Within is the calibre HEUER02 automatic movement that can store a significant power reserve of 80 hours. The case is paired with a steel bracelet—not as common as the leather straps that are usually seen in the Monaco line.

The watch makes a presence in the Neill Blomkamp-directed Gran Turismo, as the depiction of this true story unravels. It makes a statement, reinforcing the brand’s and the collection’s association with motor sports. A solid icon in the world of watches and the wold of motor-racing, this distinctive square chronograph watch is now also strengthening TAG Heuer’s association with the world of cinema.