Introducing TAG Heuer Brings Back The Monza Flyback

The Monaco might be TAG Heuer’s best-known watch named after a famous racing location, but it’s by no means the only one. Some are more obscure than others: Silverstone, Modena, Montreal, Jarama; there’s even a Heuer Daytona (don’t tell Rolex!)… The Monza is somewhat less obscure than some of its chronograph peers, in part because it’s seen sporadic re-releases in the 21st century, but also because of its potent connection to racing history.

Originally released in 1976 to celebrate Ferrari’s success in the 1975 Formula 1 World Championship - which saw the legendary Niki Lauda win his first driver’s title and Ferrari its first constructor’s title after an eleven-year gap - the original Monza ref. 150.501, like the coveted Monaco "Dark Lord" ref. 74033N released a year prior, boasted an unusually oval-shaped case coated in black PVD and red details, and was named after the famous Italian racetrack, which is not only a spiritual home for Ferrari and its fans, but was also where Lauda secured his 1975 championship win to boot.

2026 marks the Monza’s fiftieth anniversary, and just ahead of the 2026 Italian Grand Prix taking place in Monza this weekend, TAG Heuer has brought back the Monza Flyback, which last appeared in its catalogue in skeletonised form in 2023. This 2026 model retains a 42mm forged carbon fibre case, but features a dial and aesthetic that more closely resembles the OG ref. 150.501.

First up, the dial, which is matte black with red and white details plus a Dato-esque date window at 9 o’clock. The original Monza had a slightly offbeat subdial layout with its running seconds at 10 o’clock; this modern model instead has its running seconds at 6 and its chronograph minutes at 3, which makes it a little more symmetrical. The red pops of colour are continued with red stitching down the watch’s black rally strap, as well as red text on its black-treated automatic rotor.

Speaking of the movement, the manufacture calibre TH20-12 also makes its return in this Monza Flyback, which offers an 80-hour power reserve at 4 Hz - impressive, considering its additional flyback functionality. It’s a limited edition of 500 pieces and retails for A$20,150.

Carbon fibre, red and white… This Monza Flyback closely resembles Ferrari’s modern Formula 1 cars! Surprising, considering TAG Heuer is partnered with Red Bull these days. Not that I’m complaining: this is an extremely handsome chronograph, and I’m glad to see the Monza return to the range, as well as TAG not being coy about the Monza’s history or the brand’s past connection to Ferrari.

Mechanically, it’s basically identical to the 2023 release, just with a more classic and (subjectively) more appealing aesthetic. I found the 2023 model somewhat fusty and hard to read, while this 2026 edition does a better job of being, well, a chronograph. Perfect for a watch named after the fabled “Temple of Speed” - hopefully we’ll see some in action at Monza this race weekend.

Brand: TAG Heuer
Model: Monza Flyback Chronograph 42mm
Reference Number: CR5092.FC8372

Diameter: 42mm
Case Material: Forged carbon fibre, bezel and crown in forged carbon fibre, black DLC stainless steel chronograph pushers, black DLC titanium caseback
Dial: Matte black with pulsometer and tachymeter
Indexes: Printed white
Lume: Yes, Super-LumiNova
Water Resistance: 100m
Strap/Bracelet: Black perforated calfskin leather strap with red stitching. black DLC titanium folding clasp with double safety push buttons

Calibre: TH20-12
Functions: Hours, minutes, running seconds, date, flyback chronograph
Power Reserve: 80 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz
Chronometer Certified: Yes, COSC

Price: A$20,150
Availability: From September 2026
Limited Edition: Individually numbered limited edition of 500 pieces

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