1 min read | 169 words
The Only Two Square Watches That Matter
In a world of round watches, only two square-case luxury watches have achieved genuine icon status: the Cartier Santos (1904/2018) and the TAG Heuer Monaco (1969). Both reject the circular convention. Both have cinematic heritage (Santos = first wristwatch; Monaco = Steve McQueen in Le Mans). Both are instantly recognizable from across a room. But they serve completely different purposes.
Comparison
| Factor | Cartier Santos Large | TAG Heuer Monaco Chrono |
|---|---|---|
| Case Shape | Square (rounded corners) | Square (sharp corners) |
| Size | 39.8 × 47.5mm | 39 × 39mm |
| Movement | Cal. 1847 MC auto (40h) | Heuer 02 auto chrono (80h) |
| Complication | Date | Chronograph |
| Crown | Right (3 o’clock) | LEFT (9 o’clock) |
| Bracelet | Steel + QuickSwitch + leather | Leather ONLY |
| WR | 100m | 100m |
| Heritage | 1904 (first wristwatch) | 1969 (first auto chronograph + Steve McQueen) |
| Retail | $7,650 | $7,500 |
The Decision
- Santos if: You want an everyday versatile watch (QuickSwitch between bracelet and strap), you value the “first wristwatch” heritage, or you prefer a clean time-only dial
- Monaco if: You want a racing chronograph, you love the Steve McQueen/Le Mans connection, or you want the visual drama of a left-crown square chronograph
Both are available at Cartier and chronograph collections at DR.WATCH. Free worldwide shipping + 1-year warranty.
