TAG Heuer's radical new V4 watch movement

In response, TAG Heuer has invented the first linear oscillating mass. The oscillating weight traditionally used to wind an automatic watch movement has been replaced by a linear oscillating weight. In the V4's case, this is a 4.25-gram platinum ingot that moves up and down on a track between the four spring barrels. A gear system on the long side of the weight engages a cogwheel and translates the linear movement into a rotating movement.

Dictate N°3: Most of the friction is reduced by means of rubies

In response, TAG Heuer has optimised friction reduction with 39 micro ball races. For the rotating parts, technologies from automobile design were once again adapted. Thirty-nine micro ball races help minimize friction in the power transmission system, replacing the traditional use of synthetic red rubies. The smallest ball race has a diameter of 2.2 mm and is 0.5 mm high. The bearings have little balls rotating within them that have a diameter of 0.25 mm.

An architecture inspired by car engines

The movement's energy is provided by four barrels aligned in a 2-by-2 series and linked by a differential with a V-shaped bridge. Each barrel gives a force of 375 grams for a total of 1.5 kilos. The barrels are mounted in a V (angles at 15° with respect to the dial) and two constant velocity joints, also borrowed from the automobile world, transmit their energy to the movement. The barrel bridges are in sapphire, allowing the movement to be visible from below. It is this unique design component that gives the Monaco its automotive-sounding name: V4.

The audacious look matches the movement it houses

The beveled sapphire crystal, manufactured in 3-D, curves down to join the sides of the case. The small second hand is at 4:30. The folding-buckle bracelet is in stylish alligator. The overall design is inspired by the iconic Monaco, the world's first automatic chronograph with microrotor, created in 1969 and still ahead of its time.

Worn by Steve McQueen, the original Monaco's big, squared-off case signaled a complete break with conventional watchmaking aesthetics. For the new Monaco V4, it made perfect sense to borrow from this ground-breaking heritage to showcase TAG Heuer's continuing quest to push outside the dotted lines of conventional watchmaking.

...continued