Our Must Read Guide To Buying A TAG Heuer Watch
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Our Must Read Guide To Buying A TAG Heuer Watch

Our Must Read Guide To Buying A TAG Heuer Watch

 

Since 1860, TAG Heuer has swiftly risen like a timekeeping Phoenix from the flames to become one of the biggest luxury brands in the horological world. Originally named Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG in 1860 and later renamed TAG Heuer in 1985, the brand is closely intertwined with a number of industries, including racing (like Formula 1), diving and aviation

Releasing legendary collections like The energetic Monaco, as flexed by Steve McQueen in the 1970 movie Le Mans, to The Aquaracer, the La Chaux-de-Fonds outfit has been highly influential…right down to their technical innovation.

Known as Techniques d’Avant Garde, they have been integral to progressing the industry with many automatic movements housed within their most iconic models such as the Carrera. Other highlights of note include the highly desirable Calibre 11 movement from 1969 and the Mikrograph that runs 1/50th of a second from 1916. 

However, they aren't the mystery brand that is only worn by gentlemen in the Freemasons or the Skull and Bones club. In fact, chances are you’ll see it adorned on the wrists of red carpet dwellers Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt (a keen wearer of the vintage Vacheron Constantin 222) and Uma Thurman. 

Recently, the brand was spotted in the highly grossing film, Barbie, which drove the internet into meltdown, nearly as much as Daniel Craig’s mysterious new white dial Speedmaster. Actor Ryan Gosling, who happens to be a brand ambassador, played Ken and wore three vintage gold Carrera’s, with reference numbers 1158 CHN, 2448 NT and 110.515. The oldest timepiece dates as far back as 1963? Is that enough Kenergy spirit for you!

When someone decides to buy a TAG Heuer, the brand caters to a far reaching melange of buyers like petrolheads, sports fiends and in some cases the hoi-polloi. One such rare novelty is the 6000 series platinum chronometer with a limited edition run of 99 editions.

So if you’ve been influenced enough by our scintillating introduction to view the storied brand, we encourage you to continue reading as we find out Chrono Hunter’s must read guide to purchasing a TAG Heuer

Time is of the essence.

 

History Of TAG Heuer

 

There is a wealth of history behind TAG Heuer.

Edouard Heuer - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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The brand was founded by Edouard Heuer in 1860 within the confines of Saint-Imier, Switzerland. They moved to Bienne 6 years later wherein the production of chronographs began 15 years later in 1882. Ironically, this was the same period when they received their first patent for a timer mechanism in the same year. 

5 years later in 1887, Heuer created the oscillating pinion which is a module used in chronographs to stop and start the mechanism. This is still used in the modern era. Times haven't changed that much then.

In 1891, the brand went under the control of Charles Auguste and Jules-Edouard Heuer and subsequently changed the title of the company to Edouard Heuer & Co by 1895. Their dedication to chronographs continued when they created the first board chronograph for vehicles, dutifully named “Time of Trip”. Talk about going back to the future. 

The brand worked on stopwatches too, creating the innovative Micrograph in 1916, the world's first stopwatches with the capability to be precise to 1/100th of a second. In fact, their precision was so well renowned that they became the official timekeeper of the Olympics in 1920. 

Their first wrist-worn chronograph was released in 1922 and a more modern variation with two pushers and sub counters at 3 and 9 o’clock by 1940. The Solunar model was released in 1949 while the Mareograph-Seafarer in 1950 became the first chronographs to house a tide indicator and dial for regattas

Jack Heuer (Left) - Source - The Edge Magazine

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Perhaps one of the most influential figures in horology entered the company in 1958. Enter stage left none other than Jack Heuer! He was instrumental in launching the Carrera, the first chronograph with a functional dial. This was released to mark the Carrera Panamericana Mexicana rally in 1964. Following 2,100 miles of highly dangerous Mexican terrain, the race has nine stages and lasts for five days. 

The Microtimer stopwatches were released in 1966 and offered an exceptional precision of 1/1000th seconds accuracy. They became embroiled in a calibre war in conjunction with Breitling, Leonidas, Hamilton and Dubois Dépraz against Zenith for the world's first automatic chronograph calibre. This is like World’s Strongest Man but on an epic timekeeping scale.

Zenith came out ahead with the much adored El Primero calibre, leaving them to release their “Chronomatic” movement in 1969. That same year, they rocked the horological world with the release of the Monaco, the world's first waterproof automatic chronograph with a square case. And overnight like Madonna’s “Material Girl” it was an instant hit.

The Monaco was worn by none other than Steve McQueen in the Formula 1 inspired Le Mans film who furthered their reputation. Heuer swiftly became the official timekeeper and equipment supplier for Scuderia Ferrari by Enzo Ferrari from 1971 to ‘79. 

They reacted to the Quartz Crisis in 1975 by releasing a Chrono Split as the world's first quartz chronograph on the wrist. Unfortunately, the crisis was too strong and the brand had to be sold. From 1985 onwards, the brand moved from Piaget to Arab Mansour Ojeh of Techniques D’Avant Garde (TAG), eventually gaining its new name, TAG Heuer. 

In 1999, they were acquired by Louis Vuitton (LVMH). While this may seem like they fell under the fiscal misery of a conglomerate, LVMH actually features a number of highly respected brands, including Hublot, Zenith, Tiffany and Co and Bulgari

Furthermore, Jack Heuer became honorary president of the brand meaning he can still keep his fingers within the pie!

 

Timeline Of Achievements

  • 1887 - Launched the oscillating pinion which is popularised today in Chronograph timepieces 
  • 1911 - The first board chronograph is released for vehicles. 
  • 1916 - World’s first stopwatches “Micrograph” with a precision of 1/100th seconds. 
  • 1933 - Unveiled first on board models for race cars and release of the Autavia
  • 1949 - The Solunar is released with a tidal display.
  • 1950 - the Mareograph Seafarer became the first chronograph to incorporate a tide indicator and dial for regattas. 
  • 1964 - First chronograph with a functional dial, “The Carrera” released to celebrate the Carrera Panamericana Mexicana
  • 1966 - The Microtimer debuts as the first affordable electronic stopwatches to house 1/1000th precision. 
  • 1969 - Release of the automatic chronograph “Chronomatic” movement 
  • 1969 - Release of the Monaco, the world's first waterproof automatic chronograph to feature a square case. 
  • 1975 - Chrono Split introduced as the world’s first quartz wrist worn chronograph. 
  • 2005 - Calibre 360 Concept released at BaselWorld 2005 as the world's first high-beat mechanical wrist worn piece with a 1/100th accuracy. 
  • 2011 - The Mikrotimer Flying 1000 Concept Chronograph is the world's first mechanical chronograph and measures periods of time up to 1/1000th of a second. 

 

Key TAG Heuer Collections

 

Carrera

Surely the jewel in the horological crown, The Carrera has grown to become one of the brands biggest and most coveted lines to date. 

Carrera - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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Launched in 1964, the line celebrates the Carrera Panamericana Mexicana rally. Boasting all manner of sports cars, the race goes from border to border across undulating and perilous Mexican terrain and is considered one of the most popular races of the time. 

But we ain't all about racing and burning rubber on the Formula 1 track either! The Carrera Skipper follows the yachting history of the line and is brimming with historical lineage. The Skipper was released in 1968 and was defined by a bezel free glassbox and two sub dials that were mint green and a triumvirate of mint green, dark green and neon red. Designed in 1967 after the success of the Yacht Intrepid winning the America’s cup that year, the watches are noted for the countdown timer chronograph functionality. 

its incredible styling of a brightly coloured chronograph functionality ensures this remains on many horophiles' wishlists when choosing to buy a TAG Heuer

As the first chronograph specifically developed for measuring racing cars, The Carrera is highly legible and tends to feature a brilliant Tri Compax sub-dial arrangement at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. And you know we just love a 3,6,9 layout!

In 1971, after their involvement with Ferrari’s Grand Prix Scuderia as Official Sponsor and Timekeeper, each member of the racing groups team was given a solid gold Heuer Carrera engraved with his name and blood type. That’s enough to spook anyone into buying the iconic brand. But if you want to be scared into submission, have a look at this hair rising article below that’s guaranteed to make the hairs on your wrist stand up;

In 2002, The Calibre 360 Concept Chronograph was released as the world's first 1/100th of a second mechanical chronograph. Following on from that point, The Carrera has continued to develop its technical excellence across the board, including the exciting Heuer 02T Chronograph COSC certified tourbillon and in 2019, the Heuer H2 Tourbillon Nanograph which has the first carbon-composite hairspring. 

In the modern era, Carreras are now fitted with an automatic movement and have a domed, scratch resistant sapphire crystal, as well as luminous indexes and a fluted crown that enhances the winding ability. 

 

Examples of Popular Models

An example of the racing history behind the Carrera is the special edition Carrera Porsche Special Edition. Crafted out of steel, they feature a ceramic bezel that features a tachymetric scale with a Porsche inscription in red. Furthermore, the beautiful dials asphalt effect boasts Arabic numerals shaped like numbers on a cars dashboard. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Special Edition at retail for £5,800 as of December 2023. 

Fresh from The Carrera is the brand new Carrera Year Of The Dragon. Crafted out of 18K rose gold and boasting red azuré sub-counters, this crafty chronograph has a calligraphic dragon character at 6 o’clock and a Dragon figure on the sapphire caseback. 

Capped at 50 pieces, you can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera Year Of The Dragon steel version for £5,500 at retail or the rose gold version priced at £19,650 as of December 2023. 

We thoroughly enjoy the quality behind the Carrera Date. Boasting a hot pink dial, the 36mm casing is perfect for all manner of horophiles looking for accessible sizing. You can buy it at retail for £2,750 at the time of writing. 

 

Monaco

The Monaco blew up the horological world with its highly innovative design and flashy personality that melted horophiles. Kinda like the Justin Bieber of watches.

Monaco - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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Launched in 1969, The Monaco deviates from the conventional, circular case design into an instantly recognisable square shape. But unlike Michael Jackson, its radical design was certainly not “ Off The Wall, ”complemented by its water resistance… which was a worlds first for a square model. 

However, one of the most brilliant enhancements of the collection was the Chronomatic Calibre 11, an automatic chronograph movement with a micro rotor that just missed out on being the world's first behind the Zenith El Primero

In 1970, the collection became closely connected to esteemed actor Steve McQueen when he wore it on the set of the Formula 1 movie, Le Mans… and wore it in every single scene! In 1975, they underwent a black PVD coating that’s nicknamed “Dark Lord” due to its all black design. 

In 2009, The Monaco V4 was released and became the world's first to feature belts, linear mass and ball bearings. In 2011, it cemented their racing lineage by becoming the official partner of the Monaco Grand Prix with the Automobile Club of Monaco. 

Now, the watches are shaped in the same recognisable square design and feature a bold, domed sapphire crystal that’s slightly bevelled to enhance viewing from all angles. If you look closely enough, you may find some models that feature the radical crown positioning at 9 o’clock like its predecessors, symbolising that winding is no longer necessary.

If you want to really live and breathe unbridled authenticity, we recommend landing a metallic blue faced variation like the CBL2111.BA0644 with a red seconds hand and complemented by two squared sub-counters. 

 

Example Of Models

Do you want to remain in line with the classic design? We recommend the Monaco 39mm CAW211P.FC6356. Featuring the crown on the left hand side of the timepiece, blue face, steel indexes and red seconds hand, this is the ultimate link to the racing past. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Monaco CAW211P.FC6356 at retail for £6,800 as of December 2023. 

However, if you are feeling a little more modern, we wholly recommend the gorgeous Monaco Skeleton CBL2184.FT6236. Crafted within a DLC coated titanium casing, the 39mm watches have an entirely skeletonised aesthetic and an ultra-avant garde neon blue lume along the tracks of the sub counters, hour markers and hands. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Monaco Skeleton CBL2184.FT6236 at retail for £9,800 as of December 2023

 

Autavia

The Autavia has one of the longest running histories in the brand’s repertoire. 

Autavia - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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Already established in 1933 as a stopwatch bearing the name “Autavia” (a combo of both AUTomobile and AVIAtion), it would only be until 1962 when a wrist variation was released. It was accurate to 1/5th of a second and became one of the first dashboard timers for vehicles. Running via a Valjoux movement, the Autavia watches became notable for their tri-compax sub-counters, and from 1969, a new automatic “Chronomatic” chronograph calibre with a micro rotor. 

The first ambassador was Swiss driver Jo Siffert who became their first ambassador, paving the way for their sponsorship relationship with sport

Similar to Monaco, the crowns on these watches are sometimes based at 9 o’clock as a link to the automatic movement. Nowadays, they have bi-direcitional rotating bezels and Arabic numerals that are heavily coated in lume. In some models, you can even get your hands on a fresh Calibre Heuer 02 COSC Flyback movement that offers the exceptional flyback functionality to all your timepieces!

 

Examples Of Models

If you are someone who wants to deal with complications, we recommend you look towards the Autavia COSC GMT WBE511A.BA0650. Crafted out of steel, this pilot's piece features a fresh, sunray finish with legible Arabic numerals and a propeller emblem on the caseback. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Autavia COSC GMT at retail for £3,950 as of December 2023. 

If you want a different variation that is entirely complex yet instantly simple to read, we recommend the Autavia Chronometer Flyback CBE511C.FC8280. Crafted out of 42mm of black DLC polished steel, the watches are fitted with a flyback movement alongside sub-counters at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Autavia Chronometer Flyback Flyback CBE511C.FC8280 at retail for £6,450 as of December 2023

The Autavia 60th Anniversary was released in 2022 to celebrate 60 historic years of the collection. is another great addition to the collection. Boasting flyback functionality and COSC certification, the grey sunray dial allows the luminova filled Arabic numerals to be boasted.

You can buy a TAG Heuer Autavia 60th Anniversary at retail £5,900 as of December 2023. 

 

Which Model Of TAG Heuer Is Best?

 

If you want to buy a TAG Heuer, there are a number of watches which may be the best option for you. At the end of the day, it truly all depends on your own preferences, style, budget and personality. We will cover some of the brands best watches, suiting all manner of wallets so your wrist doesn't feel naked for that all important special occasion.

CBS2240.FC8319 - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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For example, if you are interested in luxury, you may find that the Carrera Chronograph CBS2240.FC8319 is the best choice. The watches are crafted out of 3N solid yellow gold on the case and have the identical sheen on the dial. 

It develops on from the much talked about 1960s Glassbox design with the domed sapphire crystal that draws the eyes into the brushed face. Furthermore, the watches are paired with the black emblematic panda style sub counters at 3 and 9 o’clock. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph CBS2240.FC8319 at retail for £18,750 as of December 2023. 

If you are less interested in luxury and more interested in uber sports heritage, we thoroughly recommend The Monaco Night Driver. Crafted entirely out of titanium, the watches are a celebration of the blue Monaco, but with a two-tone grey twist. 

Night Driver - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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Showcasing a fully luminescent blue outer face (for the first time ever!) The watches are water resistant to 100 metres and feature the same bold square sub counters as the past. As you may know already, we do love a bit of vintage at Chrono Hunter HQ and this ticks all the boxes.

You can buy a TAG Heuer Monaco Night Driver at retail for £8,300 as of December 2023. 

On the other hand, some of you may just want to strip things back to basics and enjoy the quality of a classic exterior with a modern movement. The Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph might be the one for you, constructed with 40mm of steel and given a navy blue dial. 

Aquaracer Solargraph - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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The Solargraph movement captures the sun's energy majestically and allows them to continuously run whether you are in the office or enjoying a country walk in the Peak District. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph at retail for £1,950 as of December 2023. 

The best model is completely up to your discretion. If you are a sports fiend, you won’t be let down with any of their lines, but if you are looking to purchase more of a dress piece, we recommend a smaller case size of 40mm and under. And if possible a precious metal construction, or a funky style that's more than simply sub counters and matte faces. 

 

Is It Worth It To Invest In TAG Heuer?

 

On the whole, no. Generally, the watches do not tend to be solid investments the moment you sell it the moment after purchasing it. They operate on the same principles as a car leaving the showroom wherein they are no longer desirable when they become second hand. This is naturally different from the major players such as Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin

This is because these brands are in an exceptionally high demand and as such, yield brilliant results at resale. However, this principle applies to watches from smaller brands, on the proviso that the models are vintage or limited edition. This is because they are in lower supply and demand automatically rises due to their potential for an increase in value. 

Steve Mcqueen - Source - Japan Poster Shop

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It’s understood that they will lose around 10% per year for around three years. However, it’s important to note that they have the potential to regain their value, if you make the smart decision to hold onto your model for a prolonged period of time. Subject to the model or reference or when you bought it, this is because they will be in less supply (especially if discontinued) and therefore automatically have the demand raised. 

There are also a number of external factors that come into play whether TAG Heuer watches are a good investment. These typically relate to the current market climate, the rarity of the line and the supply and demand levels of the desired watches. 

Watches like the Camaro is a great example of a vintage timepiece that performs well. Released during the 1960s, this is a special chronograph that offers a distinct cushion case shape and is available in steel and precious metals. 

It’s important to remember that they behave like most of the other luxury brands including Cartier, Longines and Omega. We must reiterate that It’s only the high level brands like the Holy Trinity, Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, as well as Rolex, that have the potential for their standard models to hold their value and surpass them. 

 

Do TAG Heuer Watches Hold Value?

 

As we said, it’s unlikely that their watches will have the capability to immediately hold their value, but the vintage or rarer models have more of a chance of yielding a solid value like the elusive Camaro. It all depends on how the market is behaving, supply and demand of the watches, condition and the rarity of the models. 

WBN2313.BA0001 - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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For example, a standard model from the highly regarded Carrera collection does not perform too well. Look towards the distinct pink face Carrera WBN2313.BA0001 which is crafted out of steel and sizes at 36mm. Given a modern case size and an eye-catching colour, these watches feature a date aperture at 6 o’clock with baton hour markers. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera WBN2313.BA0001 at retail for £2,750 as of December 2023. It sells on the secondary market for upwards of £2,100 at the time of writing. 

Do not take it for granted that the limited edition models will fare well upon resale either. Take for example The Monaco Racing Blue. Sized at 39mm, the watches are crafted out of titanium, boast a silver face, feature two blue squared sub-counters and a lime seconds hand. 

Monaco Racing Blue - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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This strong deviation from the classical metallic blue face and red second hand gives it an extra dose of uniqueness, especially since they are also capped at 1000 pieces. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Monaco Racing Blue at retail for £8,050 as of December 2023, but it sells on the secondary market for upwards of around £6,900 at the time of writing. 

You may be lucky and get your hands on a Formula 1 Mario Kart Chronograph Tourbillon. Crafted out of 44mm of titanium, these luxury watches feature a stripped back front that’s coloured both black and red. Furthermore, the tourbillon cage at 6 o’clock is re-designed to show one of the world’s most recognisable plumbers in his kart alongside Spiny Shell and Bullet Bill…moving in rhythm with the complication

Formula One Mario Kart - Source - TAGHeuer.com

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You can buy a TAG Heuer Formula 1 Mario Kart Chronograph Tourbillon at retail for £22,300 as of December 2023. There are a number of figures on the secondary market that even reach £30,900 for these particular watches!

There are also some exceptionally rare models which yield phenomenal figures upon resale. One main variation is the Only Watch Carbon Monaco. As a re-interpretation of the Monaco Dark Lord model, they are crafted out of the highly revered carbon material and entirely skeletonised. 

Only Watch Carbon - Source - Christie’s

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Powered by the sublime Heuer 02 Calibre, the first movement to be fitted with a carbon hairspring and given 10 different types of finish, it showcases the incredible gratté finish pertaining to a chequered race flag. We do think it has a certain Richard Mille vibe going on here especially with the openworked dial. Released in 2021, it sold at a Christie's auction the same year for a cool £262,700. 

One of the most valuable avenues for the brand are those sought after vintage pieces. One perfect example is the Autavia Automatic Chronograph 113.603. This edition is one of the rare military variations that were supplied during the 1980s to the Israeli Defence Forces. 

IDF Autavia - Source - Christie’s

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Crafted out of stainless steel and coated with black PVD, the IDF Autavia is equipped with a revolving bezel that's calibrated for 12 hours and 60 minutes. The Autavia collection is perfect as they were originally used as a cockpit instrument upon their inception. It sold at a Christie’s auction in 2016 for around £56,500. 

You may decide to deviate away from military history and opt to buy a TAG Heuer Autavia with classic styling. Representing the third execution of the three-register style Autavia chronograph, it is nicknamed the “Jochen Rindt Autavia” after the famous Formula 1 driver. These specific watches were released in 1965 and feature an inverse panda dial. made by Singer. And you know many horophiles are all over this popular trend like a rash.

It eventually sold at a Christie’s auction in 2017 for around £36,200. 

 

What Is The Entry Level TAG Heuer Watch?

 

The cheapest piece is the Formula 1 Quartz Watch. Measuring 41mm with a black dial and a brushed steel case, the bezel is black PVD and unidirectional. You can buy it at retail for £1,250, as of December 2023

Below is a list of the entry level timepieces for each of the prime collections:

Model

Dial Colour

Material

Retail Price

Aquaracer Professional 200 WBP1111.BA0627

White

Steel

£1,850 as of December 2023

Autavia COSC GMT WBE511A.BA0650

Navy Blue

Steel

£3,950 as of December 2023

Carrera Date WBN2112.FC6504

Navy Blue

Steel

£2,700 as of December 2023

Monaco CBL2113.FC6177

Black 

Steel

£6,500 as of December 2023

 

What Is The Best TAG Heuer Watch To Buy?

 

“The best” of anything is all dependent on your preferences!

If you are interested in diving watches, we recommend you consider the Aquaracer collection. For example, the brand new Professional 200 Date CBP1110.BA0627 is given a highly ergonomic case design within a 40mm casing. Water resistant to 200 metres, the dial is given a black corrugated design with large block hour markers and chronograph sub dials. 

However, you may be more interested in a racing timepiece like the Monaco. The Special Edition CBL2180.FC6497 is 39mm and crafted out of titanium, promoting easy wearability on the wrist, alongside bronze hour markers and hands, as well as red seconds hands and hands on the sub-dials. 

Whatever you choose, they are a fantastic brand that covers a range of timepieces, perfectly suited to the modern consumer. 

 

What Is The Most Expensive Tag Heuer Watch?

 

The most expensive piece is the Carrera Plasma Tourbillon Nanograph. Released this year, the 44mm watches are given lab-grown 124 diamonds which total 15.5 carats, a beautifully frosted aluminium dial and a fantastic black DLC coating that allows the diamonds to beam out. Perhaps the most incredible part is the large 2.5 carat diamond crown! Down to specifics, the watches are COSC certified and offer a power reserve of 65 hours. Who could forget the awesome tourbillon feature at 6 o’clock!

It has an approximate value of £455,000 at retail. 

 

Which Is Better: TAG Or Omega?

 

We’ve run through the details of the brand, but how do they fare against a top brand like Omega? They are both renowned luxury watchmakers that have a slew of highly desirable collections. 

Omega is an incredibly large brand. With an estimated turnover of 2.47 billion, they reside in third in terms of horological brand revenue. TAG individually did not make the top 10. However, as they are part of LVMH, they take around 6% of all the horological market share. 

Below are the details behind each brand and why they are so great!

 

Comparison Of The Two Brands

Omega originates from 1848 following Louis Brandt opening a workshop in La Chaux-de-Fonds. The company saw exponential growth when Omega moved to Biel to acquire a factory facility and expanded their production. In the modern era, Omega is known for a number of coveted collections adored by collectors and enthusiasts such as The Constellation, Seamaster and The Speedmaster

TAG Heuer was born a little later in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, and saw its phenomenal expansion 20 years later following the release of the chronograph with a patented oscillating pinion. This is still used by mechanical chronograph watches today! They similarly boast a number of highly revered collections that we have already mentioned in detail taking in the Carrera, Formula 1 and Autavia. 

Omega has a number of solid patents and innovations beneath them. This includes releasing the world's first minute repeating wrist worn piece in collaboration with Audemars Piguet in 1892. In addition, Omega released the first tourbillon calibre in 1947 and eventually released the world's first mass produced edition that featured the incredible Co-axial escapement. 

In 2013, they released the world's first calibre resistant to magnetic fields that's over 15,000 gauss. Just two years later in 2015, Omega introduced the Master Chronometer Certification which combines both COSC and METAS certification. 

TAG Heuer similarly pride themselves on first rate technical innovation, including releasing the Micrograph which is accurate to 1/100th of a second in 1916, the Microtimer in 1966 which is accurate to 1/1000th of a second and the Chronomatic calibre from 1969. The latter was just beaten by the Zenith El Primero as the first automatic chronograph calibre. 

In terms of iconic models, in 1965 the Omega Speedmaster was declared “Flight Qualified for all Manned Space Missions”. In 1969, Buzz Aldrin stepped onto the moon wearing his Omega Speedmaster, earning the Speedmaster the reputation as the first on the moon! More than 50 years on, the Speedy remained highly regarded in horological circles especially models like the Snoopy Speedmaster 50th Edition and the Albino Speedmaster.

TAG Heuer may not have the lunar heritage and cultural impact of Omega, but they reach celestial certification with The brilliant Monaco collection. Boasting the reputation as the first square shaped piece that's powered by an automatic calibre and water resistant, the collection was worn by none other than acting legend Steve McQueen. 

Omega is worn by a number of high ranking celebrities. Following 1995, James Bond and Omega collaborated when Pierce Brosnan wore an Omega Seamaster in Goldeneye. This collab has continued to evolve, crossing over to Daniel Craig who wears one in No Time To Die, Skyfall, Spectre and Casino Royale. 

Outside of the James Bond franchise, Omega is worn by a wealth of celebrities including George Clooney, Prince William and Ryan Reynolds. TAG Heuer is worn by a strong list of celebrity clientele, including Ryan Gosling, Tiger Woods, Uma Thurman and Al-Nassr star, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. 

Overall, Omega pips TAG Heuer at the post by their associations as the first horological brand to reach the moon and the impact on pop culture as we know it. Not to worry…hardly any brand can beat that level of prestige!

 

Conclusion

 

Before we stand back and survey our methodical work, we should tie together this guide on purchasing a TAG Heuer. 

They continue to be a highly regarded brand since their inception, as well as continuously growing to become the great horological presence that they are today. 2023 has been an incredible year for the Swiss outfit thanks to a collection of superb releases worth mentioning including;

  • Carrera Automatic Chronograph CBS2210.FC6534
  • Carrera Plasma Diamant d’Avant-Garde CNBN5A91.BZ0000
  • Carrera Date WBN2313.BA0001

They have fully understood the tried and tested methods of keeping customers wanting more. By ensuring the key features of each line are maintained and streamlined, for example, the Carrera’s sports heritage and The Monaco's illustrious sharp square case, each of them have been cemented as outstanding additions to the brand. 

Furthermore, the movements continue to develop and grow in complexity, as well as keeping them ticking along in keeping with modern consumer demands. Sure, the sizes may be dropping as the world demands more accessible cases, but the calibres remain in-house and the power reserves steadily expand. 

Not only do they have the style and the prestige behind them, they have the celebrity clout in the form of current stars like Eddie Redmayne, Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt to old school glories like Steve McQueen. Considering the immense quality of their luxury watches too, it appears they are a horological beast that cannot be tamed, giving Tudor a real run for their money at similar price points. 

They may be globally loved, but that does not mean they will yield great figures upon resale. Unfortunately, that is solely reserved for a small percentage of the horological world, including as we have already stated brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet

There are ways to beat the no value game, and that’s by conducting some research into how the market is performing, locating the scarcer or vintage models, and understanding enough about the lineage and possibilities of resale value.  

We hope you’ve enjoyed our article and learnt a thing or two about buying the brand. If you’ve been persuaded enough to consider a glimpse at a fresh, pre-owned, vintage or used model, we’ve got just the platform for all your buying and selling needs!

It’s time to synchronise your watches and join our horological revolution.



Want to buy a TAG Heuer and be an Easy Rider like Steve McQueen? Looking to purchase a Carrera or Autavia the smart way? Chrono Hunter is the essential platform for you! We offer nothing but the top prices paid when you sell a watch and the best deals possible when you buy a watch. Allow us to connect you with our exclusive network of luxury retailers, giving you a transparent and fair offer. 

We can assure you that you will not suffer from a raw deal as we carefully curate the best luxury retailers around with years of expertise. We ensure security and safety when transacting. Receive a variety of offers in less than 24 hours and check them via our app thanks to our one of a kind live portal. It really is that simple. Get in contact with Chrono Hunter here to buy a TAG Heuer with confidence. 

 

Further Reading: 

Newswatch: Tag Heuer Presents Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon, Seiko Unveils The Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Srq045, Hublot Drops Ultra-Limited Mp-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis.

Newswatch: Bvlgari Launches Serpenti Seduttori and Serpenti Tubogas Infinity, Tag Heuer Unveils 60th Anniversary Limited Edition Carrera Chronograph, Zenith’s Defy Skyline Skeleton, TAG Heuer Monza Makes a Comeback.

 

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