TAG Heuer Monaco: the blue square that stole Le Mans

One blue square can summon the sound of racing engines. In the 1971 film Le Mans, Steve McQueen’s Michael Delaney wears the original Heuer Monaco reference 1133B, a pioneering automatic chronograph with a radical square waterproof case. The watch becomes part of his uniform, alongside the driving suit and racing helmet. It looks unconventional but completely at home in the mechanical atmosphere of the paddock.

The pictured TAG Heuer Monaco Calibre 11 CAW211P.FC6356 is a later tribute, not the screen-worn 1133B. Its 39 mm steel case, blue dial, two pale chronograph registers, left-hand crown, black perforated strap and red timing accents keep the older watch's visual identity immediately legible. The modern automatic Calibre 11 provides around 40 hours of power reserve and 100-metre water resistance. TAG Heuer lists this reference as discontinued.

The Monaco’s film fame demonstrates how casting can alter an object’s destiny. On paper, its unusual proportions might have restricted its appeal. On McQueen’s wrist the same qualities became shorthand for confidence and individuality. Read the full ChronoLume film-watch feature.