Choosing a TAG
Discussion
I have two TAG's both bought because I liked them.
I've worn my Aquaracer every day and it has had a right old beating. Never missed a beat. 2 yrs ago I got a Monaco (base model - but in my mind the best as it is uncluttered and looks tidier). I'd wanted one for a long time, they look good and there is the McQueen connection (which someone will be along soon to piss all over). My wife bought it as an engagement present for me. Couldn't care less about residuals, as it'll never be sold - and I wear it whenever I can.
Watch afficionados pour scorn on TAG - and I get the reasons - but they look at these things in a much different light than joe punter who wants something that looks smart/different and from a brand that the majority would consider to be premium.
Chances are, given it is inheritance money, you'll never sell it. My Aquaracer was part funded with money from my Nan that I never had the chance to meet - I wouldn't sell it at any price (and would get bobbins anyway)
If it's an investment piece though rather than a "wearer" - you should probably listen to some of the feedback - but as above, you're unlikely to sell it on if it is "special"
Bottom line - it is a more compelling argument to buy it because you like it, than not buy it because others might think it a poor choice.
I've worn my Aquaracer every day and it has had a right old beating. Never missed a beat. 2 yrs ago I got a Monaco (base model - but in my mind the best as it is uncluttered and looks tidier). I'd wanted one for a long time, they look good and there is the McQueen connection (which someone will be along soon to piss all over). My wife bought it as an engagement present for me. Couldn't care less about residuals, as it'll never be sold - and I wear it whenever I can.
Watch afficionados pour scorn on TAG - and I get the reasons - but they look at these things in a much different light than joe punter who wants something that looks smart/different and from a brand that the majority would consider to be premium.
Chances are, given it is inheritance money, you'll never sell it. My Aquaracer was part funded with money from my Nan that I never had the chance to meet - I wouldn't sell it at any price (and would get bobbins anyway)
If it's an investment piece though rather than a "wearer" - you should probably listen to some of the feedback - but as above, you're unlikely to sell it on if it is "special"
Bottom line - it is a more compelling argument to buy it because you like it, than not buy it because others might think it a poor choice.
Just ask Christian 
Seriously though, there have been plenty of sound comments so far, the one that resonates the most with me is the point that hObO makes about the brand having "sold out" The Heuer name carries greater cache than TAG Heuer in watch circles and TAG's current marketing drive appears to be more towards the yoof of today, again turning some people off. There have also been some horror stories relating to quality control and customer service, though you don't have to dig too far down to find similar tales from many other brands.
If it was my money I'd be looking at something without the TAG tag, something along the lines of this.
Seriously though, there have been plenty of sound comments so far, the one that resonates the most with me is the point that hObO makes about the brand having "sold out" The Heuer name carries greater cache than TAG Heuer in watch circles and TAG's current marketing drive appears to be more towards the yoof of today, again turning some people off. There have also been some horror stories relating to quality control and customer service, though you don't have to dig too far down to find similar tales from many other brands.
If it was my money I'd be looking at something without the TAG tag, something along the lines of this.
Composite Guru said:
Thanks for that, I like your Calibre 36 but that may be a little out of my price range. Will have a look though.
Maybe not.I don't get the TAG hatred on the forums, some are over priced but no more than many Swiss watches.
I also don't get the anti ETA thing, I know the 7750 was never intended to be a high end movement, but who cares it works so well, my Seamaster Chrono was bought new by me in 1999, it has never been serviced and keeps good enough time for me ( I don't time my watches, so long as I am not late for meetings etc it's good enough
)
These 2 really appeal to me
http://www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/0105003/TAG-Heuer-Mo...
This is not great on screen, but I tried one at Goodwood and really loved it in the flesh.
http://www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/0104953/TAG-Heuer-Ca...
I also don't get the anti ETA thing, I know the 7750 was never intended to be a high end movement, but who cares it works so well, my Seamaster Chrono was bought new by me in 1999, it has never been serviced and keeps good enough time for me ( I don't time my watches, so long as I am not late for meetings etc it's good enough
)These 2 really appeal to me
http://www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/0105003/TAG-Heuer-Mo...
This is not great on screen, but I tried one at Goodwood and really loved it in the flesh.
http://www.beaverbrooks.co.uk/0104953/TAG-Heuer-Ca...
Just my two penneth worth - don't buy a Tag H simply because you can get a good discount, especially with inheritance money. Buy something you've lusted over for ages, studied and researched that appeals to you for a variety of personal reasons. Don't just buy a watch because the reviews say it's good, or everyone says you should buy it. Buy from the heart, invest in something that speaks to you, or appeals to your nature or interests, with history that speaks to you alone.
Some people love to Omega speedmaster moonwatch due to it's lunar history along with it's classic chronograph design and reliable movement. Some people want a Grand Seiko spring drive due to the tireless (almost 30 year) quest for perfection and accuracy, allied to an almost obsessive build quality and finish. My last 3 watches have been a Seiko Orange monster (2nd Gen), an Oris day date and a Longines Heritage collection chronograph and each one spoke to me for different reasons
Make your choice with the heart, rather than a discount
Some people love to Omega speedmaster moonwatch due to it's lunar history along with it's classic chronograph design and reliable movement. Some people want a Grand Seiko spring drive due to the tireless (almost 30 year) quest for perfection and accuracy, allied to an almost obsessive build quality and finish. My last 3 watches have been a Seiko Orange monster (2nd Gen), an Oris day date and a Longines Heritage collection chronograph and each one spoke to me for different reasons
Make your choice with the heart, rather than a discount
Also be aware that depending on what discount level we're talking you may be able to achieve this on other brands by walking into a shop and asking.
I for one have no issues with Tag watches they dont hide what they are and their top end watches really are something special ie v4, mikrograph.
I for one have no issues with Tag watches they dont hide what they are and their top end watches really are something special ie v4, mikrograph.
Thanks for the replies.
I think I'm going to have to go for a wander around some quality watch shops and have a play with some different marques.
Yes, I primarily started looking at Tag as I've always like them and how have chance to buy one with a bit of money off. As some say though, that shouldn't really be the primary reason for buying a watch so I think I have to go out there and actually find what I want rather than just sectioning off to one brand.
I don't actually have the money yet so I have plenty of time to think and decide. At least I know a bit more about the Tag brand and can put that knowledge into my future choice.
I think I'm going to have to go for a wander around some quality watch shops and have a play with some different marques.
Yes, I primarily started looking at Tag as I've always like them and how have chance to buy one with a bit of money off. As some say though, that shouldn't really be the primary reason for buying a watch so I think I have to go out there and actually find what I want rather than just sectioning off to one brand.
I don't actually have the money yet so I have plenty of time to think and decide. At least I know a bit more about the Tag brand and can put that knowledge into my future choice.
It's not that TAG make bad watches. They don't, their stuff is OK.
It's not the fact that they use ETA. Most of the players in that price bracket do that too (Omega, Cartier, Tudor, Hamilton, Ball, etc etc.)
It is about value for money. £ for £, other brands deliver a better finish. It's a very subjective thing, but there seems to be consensus amongst watchies that generally the feel and finish of TAGs does not compare well with other brands at the same price point. There are exceptions, e.g. the stuff with the Cal 36.
That said, if you have your heart set on a particular model from their range, you've looked objectively at the competition and you still prefer that model, then go for it. They are not bad watches by any means. You know what you're getting and have made an informed, level headed choice. Damned if I pay any attention to what other people think I should buy/wear.
If however you're buying the badge " 'cus it's a TAG innit "...
It's not the fact that they use ETA. Most of the players in that price bracket do that too (Omega, Cartier, Tudor, Hamilton, Ball, etc etc.)
It is about value for money. £ for £, other brands deliver a better finish. It's a very subjective thing, but there seems to be consensus amongst watchies that generally the feel and finish of TAGs does not compare well with other brands at the same price point. There are exceptions, e.g. the stuff with the Cal 36.
That said, if you have your heart set on a particular model from their range, you've looked objectively at the competition and you still prefer that model, then go for it. They are not bad watches by any means. You know what you're getting and have made an informed, level headed choice. Damned if I pay any attention to what other people think I should buy/wear.
If however you're buying the badge " 'cus it's a TAG innit "...
mikeveal said:
It's not that TAG make bad watches. They don't, their stuff is OK.
It's not the fact that they use ETA. Most of the players in that price bracket do that too (Omega, Cartier, Tudor, Hamilton, Ball, etc etc.)
It is about value for money. £ for £, other brands deliver a better finish. It's a very subjective thing, but there seems to be consensus amongst watchies that generally the feel and finish of TAGs does not compare well with other brands at the same price point. There are exceptions, e.g. the stuff with the Cal 36.
That said, if you have your heart set on a particular model from their range, you've looked objectively at the competition and you still prefer that model, then go for it. They are not bad watches by any means. You know what you're getting and have made an informed, level headed choice. Damned if I pay any attention to what other people think I should buy/wear.
If however you're buying the badge " 'cus it's a TAG innit "...
No, I'm not buying only for the badge. I'm no chav either. It's not the fact that they use ETA. Most of the players in that price bracket do that too (Omega, Cartier, Tudor, Hamilton, Ball, etc etc.)
It is about value for money. £ for £, other brands deliver a better finish. It's a very subjective thing, but there seems to be consensus amongst watchies that generally the feel and finish of TAGs does not compare well with other brands at the same price point. There are exceptions, e.g. the stuff with the Cal 36.
That said, if you have your heart set on a particular model from their range, you've looked objectively at the competition and you still prefer that model, then go for it. They are not bad watches by any means. You know what you're getting and have made an informed, level headed choice. Damned if I pay any attention to what other people think I should buy/wear.
If however you're buying the badge " 'cus it's a TAG innit "...
I loved my tank track tag SEL in 1990 - had it years and was chuffed every time I looked at it, its a great brand that you progress through to more obscure brands or stick with I guess. My last purchase was a Daytona cosmo SS until I inherited a Rolex Day date and thats my watch for life now.
NeMiSiS said:
NCE 61 said:
Reading post on this forum initially put me off the TAG brand, but when I seen a Monaco just had to have one:-
Really pleased with it.
Excellent choice, does yours have a display back not displaying any TAG logos?Really pleased with it.
I don't own a square/rectangular watch but if I did that would be on the list, looks far less Jeramy Kyle without the TAG logo on the face.
Keep the re - make whoers Hoosiers heruse hirers coming well done LV.
To liken it to the car world.
(All IMHO of course)
TAG Heuer is like Audi. It has the 'name', a few past successes - 4wdQuattro/HeuerMonaco, and you can buy some expensive Audis and TAGs. But generally you're paying for a flashy sheen over an ordinary machine with cheaper, borrowed parts (VAG/ETA).
Whereas BMW I liken to Omega - popular, wide range, 'pseudo-ish-poshness' and generally good quality.
And Mercedes is Rolex - expensive, wide range of established models and good quality.
That ought to get a bit of a reaction !
(All IMHO of course)
TAG Heuer is like Audi. It has the 'name', a few past successes - 4wdQuattro/HeuerMonaco, and you can buy some expensive Audis and TAGs. But generally you're paying for a flashy sheen over an ordinary machine with cheaper, borrowed parts (VAG/ETA).
Whereas BMW I liken to Omega - popular, wide range, 'pseudo-ish-poshness' and generally good quality.
And Mercedes is Rolex - expensive, wide range of established models and good quality.
That ought to get a bit of a reaction !
Kierkegaard said:
To liken it to the car world.
(All IMHO of course)
TAG Heuer is like Audi. It has the 'name', a few past successes - 4wdQuattro/HeuerMonaco, and you can buy some expensive Audis and TAGs. But generally you're paying for a flashy sheen over an ordinary machine with cheaper, borrowed parts (VAG/ETA).
Whereas BMW I liken to Omega - popular, wide range, 'pseudo-ish-poshness' and generally good quality.
And Mercedes is Rolex - expensive, wide range of established models and good quality.
That ought to get a bit of a reaction !
Nice analogy. I like it. (All IMHO of course)
TAG Heuer is like Audi. It has the 'name', a few past successes - 4wdQuattro/HeuerMonaco, and you can buy some expensive Audis and TAGs. But generally you're paying for a flashy sheen over an ordinary machine with cheaper, borrowed parts (VAG/ETA).
Whereas BMW I liken to Omega - popular, wide range, 'pseudo-ish-poshness' and generally good quality.
And Mercedes is Rolex - expensive, wide range of established models and good quality.
That ought to get a bit of a reaction !
I always follow these threads with interest. I have been planning on treating myself to a Monaco for a couple of years, but things like house moves, renovations, car restorations, family holidays etc have always taken priority. I might finally be in a position to go for it this year, but I think I'm probably going to used (unless there are significant discounts available on new ones?!?)
I like the Monaco, I like its design and the motorsport connection (however tenuous). I don't want it because its a Tag, I want it because its the watch I like. I'm really not fussed what other people think.
However, if anyone could point me to somewhere I can buy one for £500 after the "massive depreciation" that Tag Heuer watches suffer I would be very grateful!!
I like the Monaco, I like its design and the motorsport connection (however tenuous). I don't want it because its a Tag, I want it because its the watch I like. I'm really not fussed what other people think.
However, if anyone could point me to somewhere I can buy one for £500 after the "massive depreciation" that Tag Heuer watches suffer I would be very grateful!!
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