The Monaco V4 “Phantom” comes in a cutting-edge Carbon Matrix Composite case, with carbon fiber bridges, powered by TAG Heuer’s microscopic toothed micro-belt driven movement which features a linear weight that moves on a rail and ball bearings.
The famous V4 design was originally unveiled to the public in 2004 and first brought to market in 2009. An exposed dial that consists of 7 carbon fiber bridges, varying in shades of dark grey and black, is part of what makes this particular timepiece so special. The indices, main plate, and screws have been micro-blasted with a titanium carbide coating. Even the hands are faceted and satin-finished, with a titanium carbide coating and anthracite grey SuperLuminova. The result is an aggressive timepiece with an all-matte black timepiece that is as cutting-edge on the inside, as it looks on the outside.
According to TAG Heuer, “The name V4 refers to the V-shaped main plate which carries the four barrels mounted in two adjacent pairs on ball bearings. Angled at +/-13°, they are reminiscent of the cylinders in a Formula 1 engine. With its belt transmission and linear weight, which moves on a straight rail (patented) rather than the usual rotational movement, the Monaco V4 turns the fundamental principles of horological mechanics on their head.”
The movement has 268 components in total, including 48 bright red rubies, that stand in stark contrast to the all-black movement. The oscillation rate is 4Hz and the power reserve is 42-hours.
The Monaco V4 Phantom case measures 41 mm by 41 mm with a crown in steel with a micro-blasted titanium carbide coating. Indications include hours, minutes, and small seconds. Matte black alligator with a deployant buckle and safety push-buttons with titanium carbide coating. The retail price is $45,000 and production will be limited to 50 pieces. (Ref. WAW2091.FC6369)
Verdict
TAG Heuer’s Monaco V4 Phantom represents a future-thinking design that started development right around the time when I started creating and executing my initial plans for a website about wristwatches. Over many years of research and development, this website has materialized – just like the Monaco V4. Moreover, it will always be the concept watch I never thought would become a reality, and yet here I am holding it in my hand – in its latest carbon fiber form.
