Tag Heuer Archives - Exquisite Timepieces
Home / Blog / Tag Heuer

 

Category: Tag Heuer

Best Tag heuer watches

Driving a race car can be a thrilling and intense experience for the driver. The physical sensation of speed, the need for split-second decision-making, and the competition with other drivers can create an adrenaline rush.

The driver must also manage their focus, technique, and concentration over a long race, often feeling physically exhausted at the end. For the audience, watching a race can evoke excitement, anticipation, and tension.

Hearing the roar of the engines and seeing the cars whizzing by can be a sensory overload. The thrill of the competition and the skill of the drivers can also evoke admiration and awe. Racing is more than just a competition; it represents the human drive for achievement, pushing the limits of technology and performance.

The energy and excitement of racing have inspired many, including TAG Heuer, a Swiss luxury watchmaker known for its connection to the world of motorsports. TAG Heuer has been a part of the racing world for over 150 years and has captured the passion and energy of the sport in its line of watches. These timepieces are designed to reflect the spirit of racing, with bold designs, high-precision movements, and innovative technology.

A GUIDE TO TAG HEUER

Historical Review

TAG Heuer is a Swiss luxury watch brand with a rich history dating back to 1860. Founded by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier, Switzerland, the brand initially made a name for itself as a producer of high-quality chronographs.

Over the years, TAG Heuer has continued to push the boundaries of innovation and design, constantly evolving to stay at the forefront of the luxury watch industry. Originally founded as Heuer, the brand introduced its first chronograph wristwatch, which became popular among race car drivers and aviation pioneers in the early 20th century.

During World War II, the company supplied timepieces to the Allied Forces. Heuer faced several problems during the quartz crisis of the 1970s, and it was acquired by the TAG group in 1985. In 1999, the brand became a part of the LVMH group, one of the largest luxury products companies in the world.

One of the brand’s most iconic models is the Carrera, a chronograph that was first introduced in 1963 and remains popular to this day. In the 1980s and 1990s, TAG Heuer expanded into the realm of sports timing, becoming the official timekeeper for many major international sporting events, including the Olympic Games and Formula One. 

Should You Buy a TAG Heuer Watch?

TAG Heuer has positioned itself as a decent entry-level luxury watch brand. One factor that makes TAG Heuer stand out from other brands is its commitment to combining traditional Swiss craftsmanship with modern technology.

TAG Heuer’s watches are designed for a wide range of consumers, from fashion-conscious individuals looking for a stylish accessory to sports enthusiasts looking for a high-quality timepiece that can keep up with their active lifestyle. 

For those who are looking for a decent entry-level luxury watch brand with a strong connection to the world of sports and a commitment to combining traditional Swiss craftsmanship with modern technology, TAG Heuer is definitely worth considering.

What Collections Are Offered by TAG Heuer?

  1. Carrera: A classic collection that includes chronographs and three-hand watches inspired by the Carrera Panamericana road race.
  2. Monaco: A sporty collection featuring square-shaped chronographs and three-hand watches known for their bold and distinctive design.
  3. Aquaracer: A collection designed for water sports featuring dive watches with water-resistant cases and rotating bezels.
  4. Formula 1: A collection inspired by the world of motorsports, offering sporty chronographs with bold color combinations and robust construction.
  5. Link: A collection of sophisticated and elegant watches for men featuring classic three-hand designs and chronographs.
  6. Connected: A collection of smartwatches that combine traditional Swiss watchmaking with advanced technology and features such as fitness tracking, mobile payments, and voice control.
  7. Other collections include the Autavia, the Heuer 02T, the Heuer 01, and the Monza. Each collection offers a range of styles, materials, and features, giving customers a variety of options to choose from when looking for a TAG Heuer watch.

Additionally, TAG offers a number of special edition timepieces with limited numbers in circulation.

What Are Some Criticisms of the Brand?

  1. Price: Some customers have criticized the high cost of TAG Heuer watches, considering the price to be too steep for what they perceive to be a mass-produced luxury product.
  2. Quality control issues: Some customers have reported problems with the durability and reliability of their TAG Heuer watches, including issues with water resistance, battery life, and chronograph functions.
  3. Lack of originality: Some critics have accused TAG Heuer of being too focused on following trends and copying other luxury brands rather than developing truly original and innovative designs.
  4. Environmental impact: Some customers have raised concerns about the environmental impact of luxury watch production, including the use of precious metals and minerals, as well as the carbon footprint of shipping and packaging.

It’s worth noting that while these criticisms are prevalent, they are far from universal and many customers are highly satisfied with the quality and value of their TAG Heuer watches. The brand continues to be one of the most well-regarded luxury watchmakers in the world, offering a wide range of styles and models to suit different tastes and preferences.

Buyer’s Guide

  1. Style: TAG Heuer offers a wide range of watch styles, including chronographs, dive watches, and sports watches. Consider your personal style and what type of watch will best suit your needs when making your choice.
  2.  Movement: TAG Heuer uses both mechanical and quartz movements in its watches. Mechanical movements are powered by winding a spring and are considered to be more traditional and high-end. In contrast, quartz movements are powered by a battery and are considered more accurate and reliable. Consider which type of movement is best for your needs and preferences.
  3. Price & Availability: TAG Heuer watches are not the most affordable option on the market, and prices can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, some models may be difficult to find in certain regions, so be sure to research availability before making a purchase.
  4. Features: Consider what features are important to you in a watch, such as water resistance, date display, and stopwatch functionality. TAG Heuer offers a range of watches with different features, so make sure to choose one that meets your needs.

The Best TAG Heuer Watches

1. TAG HEUER MONACO 39MM (ref. CBL2111.FC6453)

TAG HEUER MONACO 39MM (ref. CBL2111.FC6453)

The TAG Heuer Monaco is a luxury chronograph watch that was first introduced in 1969. It was named after the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious races in the world of motorsports.

The watch was designed to be a sporty and bold timepiece, with a square-shaped case that was a departure from the traditional round shapes of other watches of the time.

This edition comes in a blue and white dial, with silver lined hour and minute hands, in addition to red second and subdial hands. This watch is also available in a black and white dial with a stainless-steel bracelet. 

Specs & Features:

  • Case size: 39mm
  • Case Material: Stainless steel
  • Dial Color: Blue/white & black/white
  • Movement: Caliber HEUER02, in-house automatic movement
  • Power reserve: 80 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Blue alligator leather 
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph & date

Price: $7,100

2. MONACO Automatic Chronograph 39MM (ref. CBL2180.FC6497)

MONACO Automatic Chronograph 39MM (ref. CBL2180.FC6497)

Referred to as the “Dark Lord”, this titanium beauty was released for the 50th anniversary of Monaco. Of course, the Monaco model is associated with Steve McQueen, and this takes the heritage to the next level.

This watch pays homage to the all-black 70s Monaco. The dial is black with rose gold hands and markers. The second hand is a contrasting red. The open caseback with rose gold is a work of art. All this is paired with a black alligator leather band. 

Specs & Features:

  • Case size: 39mm
  • Case material: Titanium 
  • Dial colors: Black
  • Movement: Caliber HEUER02, in-house automatic movement
  • Power reserve: 80 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Black alligator strap
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph & date

Price: $8,600.00

3. TAG HEUER CARRERA DAY-DATE 41MM (ref. WBN2012.FC6502)

TAG HEUER CARRERA DAY-DATE 41MM (ref. WBN2012.FC6502)

The TAG Heuer Carrera is a line of luxury chronograph watches that was first introduced in 1963. The watch was named after the Carrera Panamericana, a legendary road race held in Mexico during the 1950s.

The Carrera was designed to be a sporty and precise timepiece focused on durability and accuracy. This particular reference steers away from the traditional chronograph Carrera models. It’s an interesting option for an everyday timepiece, thanks to the simplicity of its design and the day-date complication.

Worn by Canadian actor Ryan Gosling, this watch features a blue dial with silver and white hands and markers. It’s paired with a blue alligator leather strap. This model also comes in various dial colors, including black, gray, silver, and steel blue.

Specs & Features:

  • Case size: 45mm
  • Case material: Titanium 
  • Dial colors: Black
  • Movement: (Caliber 5)
  • Power reserve: 38 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Blue alligator leather strap
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, day & date 

Price: $3,100

4. TAG HEUER CARRERA X PORSCHE RS 2.7 42MM (ref. CBN2045.FC8316)

TAG HEUER CARRERA X PORSCHE RS 2.7 42MM (ref. CBN2045.FC8316)

This special edition, with only 250 in circulation, is a stunner. As the name implies, this watch is a tribute to the Porsche RS 2.7 race car, which came in white with a red racing stripe. This timepiece features a rose gold case, hands, and markers. A date is displayed at the 6 o’clock position. 

The back of the watch case is open, and there’s a Porsche-like steering wheel positioned over the movement. The dial is white with sporty red accents, second hand, and subdials. It’s paired with a red leather alligator leather strap. There’s also a less expensive version in stainless steel, white, and blue, which is also a special edition with 500 in circulation. 

Specs & features:

  • Case size: 42mm
  • Case material: Pink gold
  • Dial colors: White
  • Movement: Caliber HEUER02, in-house automatic movement
  • Power reserve: Approximately 80 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Red alligator leather strap
  • Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date & chronograph 

Price: $23,550

5. TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 X MARIO KART CHRONO TOURBILLON 45MM (ref. CAZ5080.FC6517)

TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 X MARIO KART CHRONO TOURBILLON 45MM (ref. CAZ5080.FC6517)

This sporty, amusing, and remarkable timepiece pays homage to the world of Mario Kart. There are only 250 in circulation for this special edition. This timepiece, while humorous, is no joke, with several meticulous details ensuring this Haute Horlogerie piece is noticed.

Starting with the ceramic bezel with the Mario Kart logo in white Super-LumiNova. The tourbillion cage features Mario in his kart, the Spiny Shell, and Bullet Bill “chasing” each other. 

The dial is black with red accents, including the subdials. The hands and markers are outlined in black with white LumiNova centers. The timepiece is encased in grade 5 titanium that’s been finely brushed and polished. The black calf leather strap includes contrasting red stitching. 

For those unaware, a tourbillon is a mechanism in a mechanical watch that compensates for the effects of gravity on the movement. It does so by rotating the balance wheel, escapement, and other components inside a cage, averaging out any positional errors, and improving accuracy.

It is considered a high-end complication and is admired for its technical sophistication and beauty.There’s also a less expensive version, sans tourbillon, offered in a stainless-steel case. 

Specs & Features:

  • Case size: 45mm
  • Case material: Titanium
  • Dial colors: Black
  • Movement: Calibre Heuer 02T, in-house movement
  • Power reserve: 65 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Black leather strap 
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds & chronograph 

Price: $25,600

6. TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 43MM (ref. CAZ101AC.BA0842)

TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 43MM (ref. CAZ101AC.BA0842)

The TAG Heuer Formula 1 collection is a line of sporty and stylish watches designed for active individuals. Inspired by the world of motorsports, these watches feature bold designs, durable materials, and precise Swiss movements. 

The collection includes a range of quartz and automatic chronographs with features like water resistance, unidirectional rotating bezels, and easy-to-read dials. With its combination of performance and style, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile timepiece that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

This timepiece sports a black dial with a checkered racing flag pattern and contrasting yellow accents. It boasts a black ceramic tachymeter. The hands and markers are silver lined. It’s paired with a stainless-steel bracelet. 

Specs & Features:

  • Case size: 43mm
  • Case material: Stainless-steel
  • Dial colors: Black 
  • Movement: Quartz 
  • Bracelet/strap: Stainless-steel  
  • Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds & chronograph 

Price: $2,250

7. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 GMT 43MM (ref. WBP2010.BA0632)

TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 GMT 43MM (ref. WBP2010.BA0632)

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer is a line of dive watches first introduced by TAG Heuer in 1982. Inspired by the brand’s rich heritage in water sports and underwater exploration, the Aquaracer was designed to be a reliable and stylish timepiece for divers and water enthusiasts. 

One of the key features of the Aquaracer is its water resistance, with many models rated for depths up to 300 meters. The watches also feature durable and comfortable bracelets, unidirectional rotating bezels for timing dives, and easy-to-read dials with luminous markers.

This timepiece is encased in stainless steel and features a blue dial with a horizontal pattern and a magnified date window at the 6 o’clock position. It also includes a GMT function, making this great for travelers and divers. The model comes in various colors (black and blue dials) and strip/bracelet combinations.

Specs & features:

  • Case size: 43mm
  • Case Material: Stainless-steel
  • Dial colors: Blue 
  • Movement: Automatic (caliber 7)
  • Power reserve: 50 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Stainless-steel 
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, date & GMT

Price: $3,800

8. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 DATE 40MM (ref. CBP1112.BA0627)

TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 DATE 40MM (ref. CBP1112.BA0627)

Some describe the dial of this timepiece as the color of the sky. It’s a lovely soft blue, streaked dial featuring three sub-counters that convey the vastness of the sky. The color makes for a perfect match for a TAG Heuer Aquaracer. It’s water resistant 200M, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. It’s paired with a stainless-steel bracelet.

Specs & features: 

  • Case size: 40mm 
  • Case material: Stainless steel
  • Dial colors: Light blue
  • Movement: Quartz
  • Bracelet/strap: Stainless-steel
  • Hours, minutes, seconds & date

Price: $2,650

9. TAG HEUER AUTAVIA FLYBACK CHRONOMETER 42MM (ref. CBE511A.FC8279)

TAG HEUER AUTAVIA FLYBACK CHRONOMETER 42MM (ref. CBE511A.FC8279)

The TAG Heuer Autavia is a line of chronograph watches with a rich history dating back to the 1960s. The name “Autavia” is a combination of “automotive” and “aviation”, reflecting its origins as a dashboard timer for race cars and aircraft.

The original Autavia watches were known for their sturdy construction, easy-to-read dials, and reliable movements, making them popular among drivers and pilots. In the 1970s, TAG Heuer expanded the Autavia collection to include wristwatches, offering a stylish and practical alternative to traditional tool watches.

These early Autavia watches were popular among sports enthusiasts, including divers and adventurers, who appreciated their durability and versatility. This timepiece looks classy in all-black, from its black ceramic bezel to its black dial with silver-lined hands and markers. It pays homage to its aviation heritage.

TAG Heuer describes this as a watch for free spirits, and it certainly captures that feeling of airborne adventure. It features a COSC-certified Flyback chronometer that gets the job done and looks great doing it. 

Specs & features: 

  • Case size: 42mm
  • Case material: Stainless steel
  • Dial colors: Black
  • Movement: In-house Calibre Heuer 02 COSC Flyback
  • Power reserve: 80 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Black alligator leather strap
  • Hours, minutes, seconds & chronograph  

Price: $6,750

10. TAG HEUER LINK 41MM (ref. WBC2112.BA0603)

TAG HEUER LINK 41MM (ref. WBC2112.BA0603)

This model was worn by racing legend Ayrton Senna, who was a legendary Brazilian Formula One racing driver. He competed in the sport from 1984 to 1994. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in the history of motorsports and is remembered for his exceptional skill, competitiveness, and bravery on the track. 

This timepiece is as daring as the man it’s remembered for, while remaining sporty and elegant. It’s encased in stainless steel that’s been so polished it almost looks like liquid metal. That stunning display is matched by an equally arresting blue dial with luminescent silver indexes and finished off by a high-end luxury version of the iconic double-S bracelet. This watch also comes in a black dial version.

Specs & features: 

  • Case size: 41mm
  • Case material: Stainless-steel 
  • Dial color: Blue
  • Movement: Automatic (Caliber 5)
  • Power reserve: 38 hours
  • Bracelet/strap: Stainless-steel
  • Features: Hours, minutes, seconds & date

Price: $3,300

PARTING THOUGHTS

Today, TAG Heuer is arguably most known for its association with the world of motorsports and iconic figures like Ayrton Senna and Steve McQueen. Hopefully, from this list, you can see that besides their racing chronographs, they also produce a variety of watches that are suitable for everyday use, travelers, and divers.  

TAG Heuer is popular with a wide range of people, including watch enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the brand’s reputation for high-precision timepieces and innovative designs. It also attracts sports fans and athletes, as TAG Heuer is associated with high performance and precision through its partnerships with various sporting events and collaborations with athletes. 

TAG appeals to professionals and businesspeople who seek a luxury watch that combines style, reliability, and practicality. The brand has also grabbed the attention of trendsetters and fashion-conscious individuals who appreciate the brand’s contemporary design aesthetic and the appeal of luxury Swiss watches.

TAG Heuer appeals to people who are looking for a luxurious timepiece that reflects their style, ambition, and appreciation for quality. For expert guidance in purchasing your next TAG Heuer timepiece, contact your friends at Exquisite Timepieces

Tag Heuer vs Longines

There is something uniquely striking in the history of Tag Heuer and Longines. They all started in the same small Swiss village, in small workshops, and with a great desire to make exquisite timepieces. More than a century later, these companies have become world-renowned brands, raking in billions of dollars in revenue and manufacturing watches so sophisticated they make the founders beam proudly from their graves.

Watches from Tag Heuer and Longines are versatile, bold, functional, and impeccably accurate. And most come with a modest price point. Take, for instance, the two watches we have reviewed in this article- the Tag Heuer Aquaracer and Longines HydroConquest.

They are excellent watches for beginner collectors. With a 300m water resistance, they are also highly functional for outdoor enthusiasts. Tag Heuer and Longines have invested heavily in technology and innovation in their timepieces. Longines timepieces, for instance, have been a common feature as a timer in all major sporting events around the globe.

Heuer timepieces have been trusted and incorporated as dashboard components by high-end automotive companies (such as Ferrari). This article offers a side-by-side comparison between the two watches to provide more insight and help you make an informed decision when purchasing.

Brief History

Longines Watches

Longines history is interesting. Its founders, led by Auguste Agassiz, set up a workshop in a small village, St-Imier, where they started creating their first timepiece. They had no running water, electricity, or any form of technology. Yet, since 1832 when the company began, Longines has maintained its position as one of the oldest continuously operated watchmaking companies in the world.

Auguste’s cousin, Francillon, was responsible for steering the company into the era of industrialization. He understood the importance of innovation. The competition from other equally renowned brands that set up shop during this time (Philippe Patek in 1839, A. Lange & Sohne in 1845, Omega in 1848, etc.) was a driving force.

He wanted to create timepieces that would stand the test of time, and be revolutionary, well-respected, and innovative. In 1867 they acquired the oldest registered trademark that is still in use today. With the adaptation of technology and the skills of well-experienced watchmakers, Longines produced excellent stopwatches, chronographs, and time-keeping accessories.

The Longines’ calibre 19.73N (in 1911) was among the first wrist chronograph watches. Longines timers and stopwatches have been featured in almost all major sporting events across the globe with impressive accuracy. These include skiing, horse racing, car rallies, the commonwealth games, formula 1 games, and cycling races.

Tag Heuer S.A. company began much later (in 1860) as Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG. It was also founded in the small Swiss village of St-Imier by Edouard Heuer. Heuer came from a family of watchmakers and enthusiasts. He received the first patent that covered a crown-operated, keyless winding system in 1869.

The company changed its name to Tag Heuer after TAG Group purchased a controlling stake in 1985. Edouard tapped into the established watch-making technologies and added his own innovation to create his first chronograph masterpiece that used an oscillating pinion in 1887. The oscillating pinion was a component that allowed the chronograph to stop and start instantly by the action of the push button.

In 1911 during the rapid industrialization, Heuer designed a timing instrument to be installed on the dashboard of vehicles and crafts. Stopwatches had to be precise and accurate- almost the hundredth of a second – to serve the needs of the military, sports, and industries. 

With time, Heuer developed timepieces that had a wonderful blend of technology and functionality. After the company was acquired by the TAG Group the watchmakers were tasked with developing the ‘Centigraph’ – a timing system used by Ferrari’s racing team in 1971. In 1999 LVMH acquired Tag Heuer and this marked the beginning of another era of pushing the boundaries in the manufacture of creative timepieces.

It would also be under the new ownership that the company would create its first luxury smartwatch – the Tag Heuer connected watch.  The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch was manufactured for sports enthusiasts. The Longines HydroConquest takes the Aquaracer heads-on to present an exciting war of wits, power, functionality, and technical capabilities. 

Style & Design

Both watches are large in dimension. The Longines HydroConquest has a 43mm case width and a thickness of 11.90 mm. The uni-directional rotating and rounded bezel is made of stainless steel and ceramic. The crystal is made of scratch-resistant sapphire with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. 

The HydroConquest watch is available in a large variety of individual preferences in terms of color and case sizes. These variances come in 4 different case sizes – the 39 mm, 43 mm, 44 mm, and 41 mm variants. Apart from the different case sizes, all other elements of the HydroConquest watches remain the same irrespective of the variant – including the designs of the strap and clasp.

You may get a steel clasp with the 41mm variant and a rubber strap with the 43mm variant. Since these straps are easily interchangeable, we shall not dwell much on this difference. This article explores the 43 mm variant. Although the watch looks big, it wears slightly bit smaller.

This is partly due to the design of the bezel and lugs. The lug width is 21 mm. Most luxury divers in the market have a sturdy appearance and are thicker than the HydroConquest. This makes the watch retain its functionality while still exuding elegance. It can fit nicely under a shirt cuff and on top of other attires.

The screw-down crown has elongated and highly-polished crown guards. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic watch has a 43mm diameter brush-polished stainless steel casing. It has a lug-to-lug dimension of 49.9mm and a thickness of 12.3mm. The case is enhanced with brush finishing on the top and sides alternated with polished chamfers.

The polygonal (12-sided) uni-directional bezel design of this watch gives it a bold look. Unlike the Longines HydroConquest, the Aquaracer has a smooth bezel with a fluted edge for better grip. The polygonal inserts are made of ceramic with a gloss finish that contrasts well with the white indexing.

The Tag Heuer Aquaracer traces its roots to the 844 reference watch of 1978 and the Tag Heuer 2000 that debuted in 1982. They share many design elements. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic watch has a screw-down crown with the company’s logo on its face.

There are elongated crown guards as well. The case back is engraved with a diving helmet and a 300 meters water-resistance indication. The crystal is flat with an integrated magnifier that prevents cyclops from protruding above the top plane of the crystal.

The Dial

Tag Heuer Carrera Red

The sunray blue dial color on the Longines is striking, and yet subdued enough to prevent light reflecting when looking at the watch. The hands are silver-polished with hour markers done in Arabic numerals and indexes. The hands are filled with Super-Luminova to allow for illumination and easy reading of the time in the dark. The dial can also be black.

The teeth on the bezel are more pronounced. This is a deliberate design aimed at helping divers in wetsuits turn the bezel easily. The blue feature on the bezel is a bit darker than the blue feature on the dial. The numerals and markers on the dial are huge.

They have 9, 12, and 6 markers with the slightly-lowered date window lying on the 3 o’clock marker. The lume is bright. There is a dot on the bezel that makes the watch a functional dive watch. The hands are silver polished.

The Tag Heuer Aquaracer watch dial features the trademark horizontal pattern design of the Aquaracer collection. The dial has octagonal markers filled with super-luminova. There are three faceted rectangular markers on the 12th, 3rd, and 9th o’clock positions. The other markers have an octagonal shape with the edges finished with polished steel.

The calendar sub-register is present at the 6th o’clock position. It has a rounded lens feature that adds depth to the dial. The sword-like hour and minute hands also contain super-luminova. There is a bi-tone super-luminova system that makes it easy to read the time in low light.

The dial has an effective anti-reflective treatment that helps you to see the details of the dial with clarity. The logo is embedded on the surface of the dial. There is a sunray finish on the texture of the dial and the light and color play makes this watch’s dial unique, with depth and high contrast. There is a luminescent triangle at the 12th o’clock mark.

The Strap

The Longines HydroConquest has a stainless steel strap. The buckle has a double safety folding clasp. The bracelet and the case are made of polished and brushed steel, adding versatility to the watch. You can wear the watch when going to the office or when doing your thing outdoors.

The clasp has an extension that allows you to extend the watch over your wetsuit or drysuit while diving.
The bands for the Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch are also made of stainless steel. It has a double-folding adjustable clasp.

The adjustable system that increases the watch’s size by up to 1.2 centimeters allows the wearer to have the watch on top of their diving suit. This also means that people with large wrists can also wear the watch comfortably. You can also remove the bracelet easily to add after-market straps.

Movements & Quality

Longines uses a patented self-winding calibre L888 mechanical movement. The movement is under the closed case back of the watch. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch has a calibre 5 (ETA 2824-2) automatic movement. This is the movement that powers all the watches in the Aquaracer collection. This calibre has 26 jewels.

Pricing

The Longines HydroConquest is among the most affordable luxurious dive watches with prices starting at approximately $1,600. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch costs approximately $3,500.

Accuracy

Longines beats at an accuracy of 25,200 vibrations per minute and has a power reserve of 72 hours. Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 watch (WBP201B.BA0632) has a balance frequency of 28,800 vibrations per minute and a power reserve of 38 hours. It has an accuracy of 2 seconds variation in a day.

Water Resistance

The Longines HydroConquest is one of the most affordable luxury diving watches on the market today. At just 185g, this is the watch you would want to wear when deep diving. It has a water resistance of 300 meters.

The big screw-down crown enables the diver to wind the watch easily while submerged in the water. The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch has a 300 meters water resistance capacity.

Brand Recognition

Both watch brands command reverence in the luxury watchmaking industry. However, Longines is a more recognized brand because of its rich history. They had been operating for over three decades before Tag Heuer became a company. Watch enthusiasts know that a lot can change within a decade in the luxury watchmaking industry. 

Tag Heuer has rebranded itself severally and formed strategic partnerships with amazing brands over the years (including LVMH). This rebranding, embracing technology, and ingenious marketing has catapulted the brand’s worth and recognition upwards.

Conclusion

The Tag Heuer Aquaracer professional 300 automatic 43 mm watch and Longines HydroConquest watches are bold timepieces. Their versatility allows you to wear the watches to any event, formal or informal. They are both great watches for the price points they demand and they are both functional to a hilt.

I would personally go for the Tag Heuer Aquaracer simply because I love the bold polygonal bezel and the depth of color the blue edition watch has on its dial. That said, I also think that the HydroConquest is a great contender here, and would still be mighty proud to have one on my wrist.

They are large watches and they have great lume that could come in handy while diving in the dark. It all boils down to personal preference. If you love rounded bezels go for the Longines. If you love bolder designs, your mind will certainly settle on the Tag Heuer Aquaracer.

Omega vs Tag Heuer

Omega…the 2nd most recognized Swiss watch brand in the world, with approximately 70% international brand recognition goes head to head in this epic comparison with Tag Heuer; the holy grail watch brand that is known for its mechanical precision and modern super complications. Which is the better luxury watch brand? Easy question, complicated answer.

In the world of luxury watches, brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and of course, Omega have often stayed on the top ranks thanks to their timepieces coming with a skillful blend of bold design and classic elegance. But TAG Heuer…there’s something about this brand. Apart from often being seen as an anomaly, it seems to just be in a league of its own with its collections boldly illustrating the quintessence of Swiss know-how.

Whether you’re a collector or you’re a newbie in the watch market who is wondering “What’s better, an Omega or a TAG Heuer watch?” You have come to the right place as this in-depth comparison of Omega and TAG Heuer watches will provide you with enough data to allow you to determine for yourself if Omega or TAG Heuer is the best brand for you. Let’s begin, shall we?

Which brand is better, Omega or TAG Heuer?

Omega and TAG Heuer use different approaches to watchmaking but some similarities ought to be appreciated between both brands. For instance, both Omega and TAG Heuer produce some of the world’s most famous accurate timepieces and have both been the official timekeepers for the Olympics due to their high-precision timepieces and both watches have been to space.

Though a lot of people know that about Omega’s Speedmaster ref. CK 2998 getting to space when astronaut Walter Schirra wore the watch during the ‘Sigma 7’ mission of the Mercury Programme in 1962, it’s interesting to note that in the same year (1962), TAG Heuer became the first Swiss watchmaker in space when John Glenn wore a Heuer stopwatch as he piloted the Mercury-Atlas 6 spacecraft on the first US crewed space flight to orbit the earth.

When it comes to sports, Omega served as the Official Timekeeper at 29 Olympic Games throughout the 20th and 21st centuries while TAG Heuer has been the supplier of chronographs for the Olympic Games and official timekeeper of three games during the 1920s as well as timing motorsports, athletic and sailing events.

From NASA to the Olympics, Omega has been a world leader in advanced watch design for over 150 years with a record of building iconic timepieces for diving, timing, and resisting electromagnetic fields. TAG Heuer has also followed closely and established itself as an industry expert in timing sporting events.

For instance, if we compare Tag Heuer Aquaracer vs Omega Seamaster, both automatic dive watches with similar functions, you’ll find that the only discrepancy is the price, movement/caliber, and the fact that the Seamaster has better accuracy because of its outstanding mechanical features. So both are quality brands with Tag being more affordable and readily available!

Omega vs Tag Heuer

Tag Heuer’s Story

Tag Heuer watch brand

It’s remarkable how closely the histories of the two brands mirror each other. Tag Heuer was founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer just twelve years after the establishment of Omega. The name TAG Heuer combines the initials of “Techniques d’Avant Garde” (This is a French term for an art movement that breaks boundaries, innovates on techniques, or challenges the norm with radical ideas) and the founder’s surname.

It began in a workshop where Edouard Heuer used to manufacture silver pocket watches in La Chaux-de-Fonds Switzerland. TAG Heuer started as Heuer Watchmaking Inc. with Edouard Heuer patenting unique mechanisms that are still being used by major watchmakers of mechanical chronographs today. After his first chronograph, the patented oscillating pinion followed in 1887 and five years later Charles and Jules Heuer took over the family business.

With their administration came a new focus on the production of specialty watches so from 1911, Heuer began manufacturing timepieces that could be mounted on the dashboards of automobiles, aircraft, and boats including timing devices for ski and motor racing events.

The watches would show the time of day, as well as the duration of the trip and in 1914, the first wrist-worn chronograph by the brand was launched, followed by the “Semikrograph”, a stopwatch that offered 1/50 of a second timing, as well as a split-second function and the “Mikrograph”, the first stopwatch accurate to 1/100 of a second.

It was a super timer, ideal for measuring the flight time of artillery projectiles with a balance wheel that vibrated at an unbelievable frequency of 360,000 vibrations per hour. During World War II, the brand began producing watches for the Luftwaffe, known as “Flieger” or pilot’s chronographs, and following the success of the Flieger, It expanded Its chronograph offerings to those with multiple sub-dials, triple calendar chronographs that came in stainless steel and karat gold cases.

By the 1960s, Heuer’s timepieces were so thoroughly intertwined with auto racing and aviation that it was hard to find a timepiece linked to racing from that era in which his logo wasn’t visible. His chronographs boomed in popularity from the 1950s to the 1970s and had become popular among automobile racers, both professionals and amateurs with models like the Carrera, Autavia, and Monaco quickly earning followership.

Following the Quartz Crisis of the 1970s, Heuer Watchmaking Inc. was acquired by the TAG Group, Techniques d’Avant Garde, manufacturers of high-tech items such as ceramic turbochargers for Formula One cars adding the name TAG in 1985. Its ownership again changed when it was bought in 1999 by LVMH for a staggering $740 million.

TAG Heuer Milestones;

1860: Edouard Heuer founded the business and named it Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG.
1882: The first Heuer stopwatch ever is introduced.
1887: Heuer invents the oscillating pinion
1911: Heuer receives a patent for the “Time of Trip” dashboard chronograph.
1916: Charles-Auguste Heuer, the son of Edouard introduces the Mikrograph and Semikrograph taking stopwatches from 1/5 second to displays of 1/50 and 1/100 second.
1920: Official timekeeper of the Antwerp
1962: John Glenn flies the Mercury “Friendship 7” mission with a Heuer 2915A stopwatch on his wrist.
1962: Release of the Autavia wristwatch
1963: Release of the Carerra collection after the Carerra Panamericana road race.
1969: Heuer launches the Caliber 11 movement, the first automatic winding chronograph caliber.

Omega’s story

Omega Brand Overview

Omega had been on the scene a decade before Tag Heuer showed up. Known for Its sporty chronographs, professional dive watches, and co-axial movements, the Swiss luxury watchmaker was founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and boasts of many award-winning timepieces.

It started with Louis Brandt assembling key-wound precision pocket watches from parts supplied by local craftsmen and marketing them under La Generale Watch Co. He aimed to create highly accurate timepieces, and this desire passed on to Louis-Paul and César his sons, who picked up from where he left off following his death in 1879.

In 1892, Louis Brandt produced the world’s first-minute repeating wristwatch, followed by the first tourbillon wristwatch caliber in the world. During the First World War, Omega established itself as an innovator in timekeeping and was used by Britain’s Royal Flying Corps for its combat units. Its reputation was solidified after this and in 1918 the U.S. Army followed the actions of the Brits making Omega a go-to brand when high precision in timekeeping was needed.

Just like Tag Heuer, Omega shifted its focus to making wrist and pocket watches in 1940, and in 1947, It created the first tourbillon wristwatch caliber in the world Its prowess in designing and regulating movements was largely a success because it had incorporated new chronometric innovations. Today, OMEGA continues to innovate and develop highly accurate timepieces and has been the official timekeeper of the Olympics since 1932.

OMEGA’s Milestones;

1848: Louis Brandt founded the company and named it La Generale Watch Co.
1892: World’s first-minute repeating wristwatch is produced.
1900: First serial production of wristwatches begins.
1903: Company is renamed Omega, a Greek word depicting ‘finality’ in accuracy and reliability, following the success of the 19-ligne caliber,
movement.
1999: The first wrist chronometer with a co-axial escapement is launched.
1932: Omega begins timing all of the events at the Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
1948: 1st place at observatory trial in Neuenburg for 30mm caliber
1950: 1st place for tourbillon Cal. 30I at Geneva Trials.
1965: Omega’s Speedmaster is declared Flight Qualified for all Manned Space Missions.
1969: NASA Astronaut Buzz Aldrin wears the Omega Speedmaster mechanical chronograph to the moon, making it the first watch to land on the moon.
1974: Omega Marine Chronometer certified as the world’s first Marine Chronometer wristwatch that is accurate to 12 seconds per year.
2013: Development of timepieces with high resistance to magnetic fields such as the Seamaster Aqua Terra.

Reputation

Both brands come with a rich legacy across the technological, luxury, and sports industries but when it comes to recognition, Omega is a brand that is recognized worldwide and is coveted for its precision and quality with the largest production of luxury watches in Switzerland (Omega creates over 240,000 luxury watches every year).

While TAG Heuer produces decent, iconic watches like the Carrera and Monaco, they do not invoke the image of luxury like Omega and are not officially recognized as a luxury watch brand. When it comes to ranking, Omega has claimed the top second spot in the watch model ranking just behind Rolex, thanks to the Seamaster and Speedmaster, and has enjoyed massive recognition, status, and respect for over 50 years.

TAG Heuer on the other hand is the 12th most recognized watch brand from Switzerland and currently holds the 34th most popular and valuable Swiss brand in the top 50 according to a report by Morgan Stanley with an estimated brand value of 76 Million CHF.

Accuracy

In the watch world, the COSC certification has been the standard for judging the accuracy of watches. To be COSC Certified, a watch has to be accurate to -4 to +6 seconds a day, in addition to being Swiss-made and manufactured from the highest quality materials. Omega’s watches are COSC certified with its Master Chronometer timepieces having an accuracy of up to -0/+5 seconds per day.

Some TAG Heuer’s mechanical watches also have a COSC certification and are accurate enough to be one of the world’s most accurate timing instruments in motor racing. The Calibre 5 accuracy for instance is +/- 12 seconds per day. Omega also pulled through the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology certification process, which Tag Heuer failed to achieve.

Since magnetic fields have always been known to interfere with a watch’s movement and reduce a watch’s timekeeping accuracy, Omega accomplished a great stride by pioneering the use of non-magnetic silicon in Its Si 14 balance so even with Tag Heuer’s technical advancement, Its best watches cannot resist a magnetic field of 15 000 gauss like OMEGA’s Seamaster Aqua Terra

Style and Craftsmanship

Both brands offer a variety of styles. While Omega offers a luxe gait with classic retro designs, TAG Heuer is very influenced by racing and motorsports and many of its watches come with a sturdy and sporty aesthetic. Omega is a trailblazer when it comes to craftsmanship and materials, as it offers numerous models in its proprietary gold alloys.

The Canopus and Moonshine gold are iconic examples. From stylish and elegant dress watches in the Aqua Terra line to Omega’s most popular flagship model namely the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, Omega is famous for crafting highly shock-resistant timepieces with innovative materials such as Canopus gold and O-Megasteel which do have a timeless style but Omega’s designs are not as ‘eye-catching’ as Tag Heuer’s.

Movements and Complications

OMEGA produces watches with both quartz and mechanical movements and offers timepieces with annual calendars, world time displays, tourbillons, and skeletonized movements. After launching its first watch with the co-axial movement in 1999, the co-axial escapement is being incorporated into almost all of its timepieces. Many of Tag Heuer’s best-selling non-chronograph watches (Aquaracers and Carrera) have Tag Heuer’s Caliber 5 movement which is all based on ETA and Sellita movements.

Depending on the model and price, different movements apply. TAG Heuer Monaco for instance uses a modified Sellita SW300 or ETA 2892 with an added chronograph module while the new Autavia features a modified ETA 2824 movement that TAG Heuer equips with their proprietary Isograph balance made from a special anti-magnetic composite material.

Omega goes further than Tag to beautify its movements with different fittings such as extra jewels, Coaxial escapement, free-sprung balance, etc making Its timepieces more accurate but also more expensive to repair, and a bit problematic.

Popularity and Pricing

TAG Heuer as a brand appeals to various segments of the market and caters for different classes of people. As a result of a huge commercial presence and numerous media endorsements, they are popular but do not share Omega’s popularity as Omega is renowned for maintaining high-quality standards for all the products it creates, and its catalog is home to many of the world’s most famous wristwatches.

When it comes to prices, the Aqua Terra collection is the most affordable entry-point Omega model watch with prices starting from around 4,000 USD. Popular chronographs from the Speedmaster collection can be gotten for 6,000 USD while top Omega models like the rose-gold De Ville Tourbillon command as high as 120,000 USD.

The price range for TAG Heuer timepieces varies greatly by model and year of production, but TAG Heuer is generally more affordable than Omega. Quartz calibers from the late 1980s can be gotten from 250 USD, while prices for a Carrera range from around 1,200 USD to over 71,000 USD for a chronograph with the tourbillon caliber Heuer 02T and a diamond-studded bezel.

Omega vs Tag Heuer Quality

TAG Heuer is especially known for chronographs, and it’s a giant in the watchmaking world but Omega watches are considered to be of higher quality. The quality of an Omega watch is easily demonstrated by the amount of time it takes to create one. The Tourbillon luxury watch for instance is a work of art that takes 500 hours to craft. If you are searching for quality smartwatches, TAG Heuer is your best bet.

From built-in GPS, heart-rate monitor, accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope to TAG Heuer’s golf watch that comes with a custom-built app that tracks each shot and displays distances to greens and hazards, TAG Heuer has stepped boldly into quality tech watches but not Omega. Omega remains the top luxury watch with a timeless classical aesthetic and robust movement that has not ventured into Tech.

Resale Value

Though many variables such as the make and model, condition of the timepiece, rarity, demand, and so on contribute to determining the resale value of a timepiece, high-end luxury watches often tend to hold a high resale value over time. Thus brands like Omega will typically see a higher average resale value than TAG Heuer.

Warranty

Shortly after Omega introduced Co-Axial escapement into its movement, the brand extended its warranty period to 5 years. TAG Heuer still offers a 2 years warranty on all its timepieces as do most watch brands.

Omega Speedmaster vs Tag Heuer Carrera

TAG Heuer is known for three main chronograph models. They are the Carrera, a sleek and compact option, The Autavia, a contraction of AUTomobile and AVIAtion, designed to service passion from both worlds, and the Monaco. An instantly recognizable square chronograph watch famously worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film “Le Mans”.

The first watch that comes to mind when mentioning OMEGA is the Speedmaster also known as the Moonwatch or the first omega in space and the only watch approved by NASA for manned space flights after a grueling series of tests. Tag Heuer Carrera and Omega Speedmaster are one of the best models of these respected brands and both come with unique features.

A major difference is that Carrera has timepieces that bring more appeal to the eye with better-looking bezels while Omega Speedmaster sticks to a timeless elegance and design that has not changed for over 60 years. Tag Heuer Carrera was designed by Jack Heuer, the great-grandson of Edouard Heuer in 1963, six years after the Speedmaster was introduced.

Closely associated with the world of racing, the Carrera was named after an extremely dangerous race, “Carrera Panamericana” that ran on public roads in Mexico from 1950 to 1954. Both collections are extraordinarily vast, and so too is their pricing.

The most expensive Carrera is the Plasma Tourbillon Nanograph, which sold for about 375 000 USD, powered by the Nanograph movement, and boasts a dial made completely of polycrystalline, lab-grown diamonds. While the most affordable Speedmaster model is the Date Automatic, which can be gotten for around 2,600 USD.

Tag Heuer Carrera Pros

  • Iconic watches with a cutting-edge legacy. 
  • In-house Heuer 02 or Calibre 1887 chronograph movement powers the watches.
  • Many designs and material options with numerous coveted vintage models that have the potential to appreciate in value.
  • Some of the models are waterproof up to 100 meters.
  • Dials are presented with proper legibility and melded sporty elements
  • Parallel and elongated lugs that feel solid and sturdy on the wrist, allowing for a more compact feel, plus metal crowns for an elegant yet sporty look 
  • 42-hour power reserve ( the Carrera Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic Chronograph has a stunning power reserve of 80 hours, an in-house caliber and tourbillon Caliber 7 Twin-Time with a GMT function)

Cons

  • When it comes to comfort, the Speedmaster offers more comfort to the wearer. The Carrera is thick and somewhat heavy and isn’t recommended for everyday use.
  • TAG Heuer Carrera watches come with well-beveled lugs that slant downwards, giving them a bulkier look.
  • Extremely sharp clasp.

Omega Speedmaster Pros

  • Legendary chronograph series with a cult status that will never lose its charm.
  • Co-Axial Master Chronometer with magnetic resistance of up to 15,000 gauss.
  • Limited editions with the potential to increase in value.
  • Power Reserve of 48 hours.
  • Better accuracy and build quality than the Carrera.
  • Timeless design. (It is the only sports chronograph that looks exactly like the original model)

Cons

  • No micro-adjust on the bracelet clasp so the watch bracelet cannot be modified to fit your wrist.
  • Lackluster bracelet.
  • Hesalite crystal scratches easily.

FAQ

Is Omega more expensive than TAG Heuer?

Yes. Omega watches tend to be more expensive than TAG Heuer because they are a more luxurious brand. In addition to being a more dominant brand in the luxury timepiece industry, , OMEGA watches are highly popular and come with a respected history.

Are Tag Heuer and Omega overpriced?

Both Tag Heuer and Omega offer value for their timepieces and their watches come with impeccable quality made with some of the most expensive and valuable metals and stones, so you simply get what you pay for.

Rolex vs Tag Heuer

Say you want to compare Rolex with TAG Heuer broadly. It’s easy to write off TAG as no challenge quickly. But you’d be surprised to discover both brands’ equally rich history and influence in the horology world. These two watchmakers currently build watches for watch enthusiasts with different timepiece interests. 

We get into the intricacies of both brands’ watch engines, popularity, and more. At the end of the road, you should have an idea which one of these brands suits you best or edges the other in your preferred category. Of course, there’ll be no Rolex or TAG Heuer slander, so we’ll get started with that rich history we talked about earlier without further ado.

Brand History

Rolex: Innovators From Get-Go

Rolex was established in 1905 by Swiss watch designers Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred David as Alfred and Davis. But here’s a historical plot twist you likely didn’t know: Rolex was based in London but moved down to Geneva because of high taxes on luxury products post World War I. As a result, they weren’t widely recognized as Rolex for nearly two decades when they were renamed to Rolex SA. Although their timepieces were already branded Rolex three years into the business.

But that’s enough brand name and chronological history class. Let’s talk patents and groundbreaking horology. Rolex released several never-before-seen complications and watches that transcend collector and enthusiast circles. They unveiled the first ever certified chronograph – the Daytona – only after five years in business.

Rolex released the first water-resistant watch ( the Oyster), the first self-winding watch (Oyster Perpetual), the first date and time watch (DateJust), and the first multiple time zone watch (GMT Master) within 50 years of business. Astonishingly, Rolex still produces most of these evergreen watches, which speaks volumes.

TAG Heuer: Trailblazers from The Genesis

A glimpse into Rolex history proves hard to top, but TAG Heuer (or Heuer) isn’t far off. They were founded in 1860 – five decades before Rolex – and originally named Heuer AG. It wasn’t until 1985 – during the quartz crisis –– that they were acquired by Techniques d’Avante Garde (TAG Group) and called TAG Heuer. They’re based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. 

Before the 1985 takeover, Heuer released the first-ever dashboard chronograph, called Time of Trip, in 1958. And over a century ago, they patented the “oscillating pinion,” that we use in watches today. And in 1916, Charles-Auguste – the founder’s son – introduced the first ever stopwatch accurate to 1/100 of a second, The Mikrograph. 

Surprisingly, Heuer only released their first wrist chronograph in 1914, so you can imagine they were trying to keep up with the competition, Rolex, for example. However, unlike Rolex, which still sells the line of iconic watches from its early days, TAG’s most iconic timepieces, like the Carrera and Monaco, are only later models. So it’s only logical to say that Rolexes have a richer history than any Heuer watch.

Brand Popularity

What if you had to compare brand popularity? Rolex would be the obvious winner based on the numbers. Enough data shows that Rolex is the #1 watchmaker in Switzerland and the world, while TAG Heuer is a distant #12 Swiss and #50 in world rankings. Despite this gap, TAG Heuer is a world-class watchmaker that you can’t write off as a luxury brand. Here’s a glimpse at both brands’ influence.

Rolex

3 Rolex watches on display

In reality, Rolex has gone beyond popularity as a watchmaker. Instead, they are researchers, innovators, explorers, and an awards laureate, in addition to their countless partnerships with business, arts, and sports legends. 

As you already know, Rolex released many world’s first watches and movements in their early years. And they’ve publicized the strengths and capabilities of their timepieces boldly in scientific explorations and media. For instance, the Deep Sea Challenge was on both trips to the ocean’s deepest depths. And we’ve seen James Bond wear a Rolex Submariner or Chronograph, though not as much as an Omega Seamaster Ocean. But you get the drift. Rolex has and still is everywhere that matters, from pop culture to sports, to politics to space travel. 

Although Rolex has millions of filthy rich “fanboys,” they have only 20 official brand ambassadors. Some of them are the recently retired 20x Grand Slam winner Roger Federer, Formula One icon Jackie Stewart, NBA hall of Famer Dwayne Wade, and his celebrated actress, activist, and wife, Gabrielle Union. 

And in recent decades, the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona sold for $17.8 million at an auction, which had trickle-down effects on the brand’s popularity. Not only was Rolex on every watch enthusiast’s screen, but the general public. With this kind of influence, Rolex could stop marketing and still break profit, maybe even better. 

“Every Rolex tells a story.”

TAG Heuer

Tag Heuer Carrera Red

As a brand established in the 19th century, we know TAG has a rich history. And currently, as a brand under Louis Vuitton (LVMH), they’ve got some popularity too. But the journey to this point started when they supplied the automobile, aviation, and sailing industries with dashboard timers.

Then things kicked off extraordinarily for them in car racing from the 70s to the 90s, with help from TAG. Techniques d’Avant Garde – TAG Heuer’s parent company at the time – were co-owners of McClaren, who sponsored Williams Racing in Formula One. 

Considering the long list of A-Listers who’ve pulled off a TAG Heuer as a dress watch, they’re a celebrity favorite. For example, we saw Timothy Dalton pull off a TAG Heuer Night Dive – rather briefly – in 1987’s Agent 007, The Living Daylights. Also, Men In Black and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air actor Will Smith almost always sports a TAG Heuer Monaco. 

Many Rolex fanboys were also former TAG ambassadors like Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, Brad Pitt, and Leonardo DiCaprio, just to mention a few former ambassadors. Currently, TAG Heuer has Naomi Osaka, the 4x Grand Slam champion, Ryan Gosling from The Gray Man, and Patrick Dempsey as its official ambassadors.

And not to forget the influence of legendary race and film star Steve McQueen on TAG watches. TAG Heuer’s slogan is “Don’t Crack Under Pressure,” and they surely don’t, even with Rolex as a competitor.

Rolex vs. TAG Heuer: Brand Partnerships

As you probably know, this guide will be incomplete without comparing the partnership deals of these behemoth watch designers. How do they get the name out outside the watch industry? 

I’ll start with the name you’ve likely seen plastered on a race car, TAG Heuer. This brand has been a frontrunner in the automobile industry since the 1900s, especially after releasing its Autavia dashboard clock. They partnered with Formula 1 in 1980 ( and they weren’t untouched by the Quartz crisis). 

Rolex seems out of the league of TAG Heuer (or any watchmaker, for that matter) when you consider partnerships. They’re official timers for the most exclusive cabal of sports promotions and multinational corporations.

When you put that up against TAG Heuer’s most influential partnership being the official timekeeper of Formula 1, it’s totaling. But it’s a sublime collab that enshrines Heuer’s long history with car racing timepieces. And Rolex is more or less the apex luxury piece everyone aspires to wear when they become rich.

Brand Technology

Again, Rolex would outshine TAG when considering the tech for their movements, cases, and bracelets. Some of their least expensive lines are almost twice the cost of a Carrera (one of TAG’s high-end watches), so it’s unsurprising.

An Oyster Perpetual Date, Rolex’s entry-level watch costs around $3000 to $6000, while a TAG Autavia or Monaco starts from about $3,000. So comparing their tech is only about finding basic horology features like temperature resistance and anti-magnetic protection (for mechanical watches). Traditionally, Rolex has a watch line that handles each of these features. 

The Rolex Milgauss, for instance, has magnetic protection of 1 gauss – which is overkill even in enthusiasts’ circles except for a handful of scientists and big-time collectors. So while TAG Heuer can’t match that spec in their watch lines, they can take on more magnetism than the average wearer will ever handle.

In a way, this is why Rolex stands out, aside from the fact that their watches mostly have precious metal finishing. Furthermore, Rolex has a complete educational website dedicated to watching explorations, arts, and awards. What you’ll get from TAG is mostly a list of partnerships and limited edition watches. With these few points, it’s safe to say they don’t stand a chance against Rolex.

But TAG Heuer can be considered better evolved technologically because they invest in classy smartwatches and NFTs. Meanwhile, Rolex has stuck to mechanical watches (good in horology) for over a century. For instance, the TAG Heuer Connected is a chronograph-style smartwatch that combines tech similar to an Apple Watch with elegant steel finishing and displays NFTs. That’s the height of modern technology you’ll see from any luxury watch.

Accuracy

Accuracy is rarely contemplated except by the most passionate enthusiasts, but it’s worth mentioning. A watch is accurate by how fast it works when synchronized to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). For example, it could be 2 seconds fast or –4 seconds slower than UTC. 

One more thing is rate stability. This is how accurate the watch measures over a while, and it’s equally, if not the most crucial feature to test a watch’s accuracy. And how do Rolex and TAG Heuer watches compare after a month, year, or five years? Well, if you consider the fact that TAG Heuer produces quartz movements – the world’s most accurate timekeeper – and Rolex only makes mechanical movements, TAG is the clear winner. 

On the mechanical movement playing ground, you’ll quickly see Rolex’s unfair advanTAGe. And even TAG Heuer acknowledges it. While we can’t accurately quantify how accurate Rolex watches are (every watch varies how it’s used), they’re certified by Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), which certifies a chronograph to be accurate between –4 and +6 seconds a day.

From a traditional horology standpoint, it can’t get any better than this. But Rolex goes even further with an in-house test that certifies their watches as Superlative Chronometers that keep time to -2/+2 seconds a day. 

TAG Heuer, on the other hand, can’t afford the fancy certifications and R&D teams, which they’ve admitted helps them to keep costs down. In fact, they claimed that their watches are as accurate as any COSC-certified model, which makes sense.

We aren’t sure of the costs to obtain a certification, but it’s much easier for Rolex to incorporate COSC certificates and research spending in their pricing. So if it makes sense, you can get a TAG Heuer that’s just as accurate as a Rolex, even if it’s $4,000 cheaper. But Rolex is officially the better timekeeper.

Comparable TAG Heuer and Rolex Watches

The Rolex Submariner and the TAG Heuer Aquaracer are iconic dive watches critics and enthusiasts have compared. We’ll have a brief look at the features of both timepieces for an insight into how they build their watches. 

The most obvious place to start is how deep they can go underwater. Here, the Aquaracer wins, capable of depths up to 500m, while the Rolex has 300m water resistance. But the Submariner trumps the Aquaracer with luminescence in the dark, higher resale value, and a robust build from its stainless steel and precious metal strap options.

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer is mainly only sold in rubber straps, stainless steel, and bands like NATO fabric. However, they have many more dial and case options than the Rolex. On average, an entry-level Rolex Submariner costs around $8,000, while an Aquaracer could sell for around $2000.

Ultimately, you’ll find that unless you’re scuba diving into the Mariana trench, you can thrash either watch in water, and they’ll be perfectly alright. But the Submariner is a more valuable piece (although there are also a few priced limited edition. Aquaracers) 

Some Other possible Comparable Rolex and TAG Heuer Watches

Dress Watches

Oyster Perpetual vs. Link or Carrera Monaco

Chronographs

Day-Date vs. Monaco or Autavia

Dive Watch

Submariner vs. Aquaracer

Racing Watch

Rolex Daytona vs. Formula 1 or Aquaracer Professional

Resale Value

Rolex is the king of resale value when it comes to luxury watches. Not just because they’re more expensive but also the brand name. And TAG Heuer isn’t beating that today. But resale value generally depends on the condition of the watch, casing, warranty, or status of the previous owner.

And they’ll factor in what you can get for a Rolex or TAG if you want to sell them pre-owned. But you have a better chance of getting close to what you spent on a Rolex than a TAG Heuer watch

Warranty

TAG Heuer offers the industry-standard 2-year warranty period. But Rolex watches come with a 5-year warranty (a policy they started in 2015), but it is now a norm in ultra-luxury brand circles. While Rolex has a more extended warranty, both have excellent after-sale service in the US, so that won’t be an issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TAG Heuer Related to Rolex?

No. TAG Heuer is not in any way related to Rolex other than the fact that they’re both swiss watchmakers.

Is There Any Better Watchmaker Than Rolex?

It’s hard to say as opinions vary, depending on watch type and price points. But some of the few luxury watchmakers touted to make better watches than Rolex are A.Lange & Söhne, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Breguet, Philippe Patek, and Audemars Piguet. However, Rolex still has the best price value of any other watchmaker.

Would TAG Heuer Be Considered A “Luxury” Brand?

Absolutely. TAG Heuer is a Swiss luxury watch brand established in the 1800s.

Final Thoughts

While choosing between a Rolex and TAG Heuer all comes down to preference and budget, we can’t deny that Rolex is the better brand in this comparison. TAG Heuer is a world-class watchmaker, but Rolex plays on a different level. 

You can’t go wrong with either if you’re interested in a famous luxury watchmaker. Rolex timepieces tell a story with robust cases and mindblowing complications, while TAG Heuer offers timeless and precise watches that turn heads just as much. 

tag heuer vs movado brand comparison

Which is a better watch brand – Tag Heuer vs Movado?

Tag Heuer and Movado are two vastly different watchmakers that offer plenty of value in their respective corners of the watch market. Both with a rich horological history, they have evolved over time and have continued to design luxurious and innovative timepieces. Tag Heuer has built a solid reputation around producing unpretentious luxury sports watches stemming from their ties with Formula 1 and Movado is known for their minimalist designs that exude sleek luxuriousness. 

Today, both watch brands are producing a variety of timepieces that appeal to multiple areas of the market. From affordable quartz analog watches, to fine Swiss watches, and even smart watches, Tag Heuer and Movado are widely known across the watch market to have something for everyone. 

Is Movado watch a higher end brand watch?

Movado watch on a wrist

Movado has slowly moved more into the fashion watch side of the market. Starting as a high end Swiss watch brand, Movado has evolved to put more focus on their affordable timepieces and acquiring fashion watch brands in the U.S. Today, Movado owns 11 fashion watch brands and is the second largest American watch group. Over the past couple of years Movado has prioritized staying relevant in “a challenging and evolving landscape for both retail in general and the watch category in particular.” 

Unlike exclusive luxury brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe, Movado has transitioned into more of an e-commerce focused business model. Focused on growth, the goal of the company has been to “connect directly with consumers in the digital world”, according to Movado CEO Efraim Grinberg who realized that in order to be an omni-channel player in the market they would have to go digital. 

Grinberg, who inherited the company from his father who founded Movado group in 1983 after acquiring Movado, has shifted the business focus on growth and development across multiple segments. Movado, originally a luxury Swiss brand, has evolved into a watch brand that is more accessible to the average consumer. Compared to luxury brands in the market like Omega, Tag Heuer, and Mont Blanc, Movado is more affordable and more accessible to consumers.

Today, Movado is seen mostly as a fashion watch brand, appealing to millennials and watch enthusiasts who are looking to find a timepiece at an affordable price and without having to join a potentially lengthy waitlist for a highly sought after watch.  

Tag Heuer watches

Tag Heuer watch brand

During the year of 1860, Edouard Heuer founded the Heuer Watch Company. His goal was to be at the forefront of horological innovation with his watch designs. Within 10 years of starting the company, Heuer started to file patents. In 1869 they filed the first patent for a keyless, crown-operated winding system for pocket watches. In 1882 Heuer patented the company’s first chronograph. Amongst their first handful of patents was the oscillating pinion mechanism that is still being used by watchmakers today. 

During the year of 1911 Heuer began their long standing relationship with the automotive and airline industries. They patented their first dashboard chronograph which served as catalyst for a season of rapid growth and development in the company. Only a couple years later in 1916 they patented the Micrograph, the world’s most accurate stopwatch at the time. This patent led Heuer to building a partnership with the Olympics committee who made them the official timekeeper of the 1920 Olympics. 

For the next couple of decades, Heuer continued to strengthen their ties with the automobile and airline industries. From producing chronographs designed specifically for pilots to more dashboard instruments, Heuer came out with the Autavia. This clock featured a timer function, could run for eight days on one full wind, and was the first watch designed for racecar drivers.

The year of 1985 was a monumental year for the Heuer Watch Company. They were acquired by a group under the name of Techniques d’Avant Garde and became the brand we know today, Tag Heuer. Despite being under a new name and leadership, Tag Heuer remained loyal to the automotive industry.

In 1992 they became the official timekeeper for Formula 1 racing. This partnership ultimately led to the Formula 1 collection from TAG. To this day the company has upheld their position in the market by continuing to innovate with their designs and mechanics.

Movado watches

Professional man wearing a Movado watch

Movado was founded during the year of 1881. Before operating under the name “Movado” the company was initially known as LAI Ditescheim & Freres SA. It wasn’t until 1905 when the name “Movado” was introduced. A direct translation to the english phrase “always in motion”, the new branding of the company set the tone for the next couple decades of Movado watchmaking. 

From the beginning, Movado proved itself to be at the forefront of watchmaking by pushing innovation within its watch designs and operational strategy. They were one of the first watch companies to invest in electrically powered machinery which led to a boost in productivity and helped scale the business to increase its workforce and output. 

As the company started to evolve, they came out with new technologies leading to patents that would help distinguish Movado as a leading watch maker in the industry. One of their most notable patents was filed in 1912. Movado introduced the Polypan, an incredibly ergonomic design that allowed the watch to conform to the natural curvature of the wrist.

The genius idea came from Isidore Ditesheim and the name Polypan was derived from the multi (poly) level shape of the movement. The Polypan movement was built in 3 distinct layers which allowed the watch to adopt a curved shape. A design like this was unheard of at the time and helped Movado stand out as a noticeable watchmaker in the Swiss watch industry. 

Towards the end of the 1930’s Movado introduced fully in-house chronograph movements to their timepiece portfolio. They designed the M90 and the M95 movements which differed by 1 subdial. The M90 had 2 sub-dials and the M95 had 3. The M90 was launched in 1938 and was produced until 1965. The M95 was launched just after the M90 in 1939 and was in production until the early 1970’s.

At this point Movado began to partner with Zenith, a watchmaker known for designing the first chronograph movement. Movado resided within the European watch market well through the 1900’s until the North American Watch Corporation acquired them in 1983. From there Movado crossed the pond and entered the U.S. market. Upon arrival, Movado instantly built a reputation for their sleek minimalist designs.

Their most popular design was the “Museum” line. Embodying minimalism, the watch only has one dot at the 12 mark and no other prominent features aside from the watch hands. This design is still one of, if not the, most popular designs from Movado. 

In 2018, Movado acquired the fashion watch brand MVMT. MVMT is a fashion watch brand that manufactures modern yet simplistic affordable timepieces for those who aren’t keen on spending a fortune on a watch. Movado, having history in fine Swiss watchmaking, has evolved to become a brand that produces both luxury and fashion watches. 

How long do Movado watches last?

Movado produces watches with a couple different movements. In their fashion watch lines, the quartz analogs will house a 1.55 Volt battery that is specifically designed for watches and will last 18-36 months under normal use. A great reason to buy a quartz watch is that when the battery dies they can be easily replaced at a low cost. By keeping your watch in good condition and replacing the battery when needed, you can extend the life of your watch by a lifetime. 

The other movement that is housed in Movado’s higher end watches is the ETA 2824-2 Swiss automatic movement. This movement has shock protection, quick set date, and a 40 hour power reserve. An automatic watch is powered by the kinetic movement of the wearer’s wrist and will run depending on how often it is being worn.

Automatic movements, if being worn regularly, will need to be serviced every 5-7 years. When servicing an automatic watch, the watchmaker will disassemble the movement, clean it, and put it back together. If your watch is regularly serviced it will last a lifetime. Swiss movements are more intricate and costly to design and service but deliver high accuracy timekeeping and potential to last for many decades.

By offering both quartz analog and Swiss automatic watches, Movado has made it very accessible for watch enthusiasts to buy into the brand at a range of price points. From affordable quartz to fine Swiss movements, your Movado watch has the potential to last a lifetime. 

Is Movado Swiss made?

Movado produces a wide range of timepieces. On the fashion watch side of the house Movado utilizes quartz analogs housing Citizen Miyota movements. These movements are usually between $95 to $195 which allows Movado to produce more and have affordable options for watch enthusiasts on a budget. Movado still produces higher end watches that are in the entry level swiss segment. These watches cost up to $2,500 and contain a Swiss automatic movement.

Is Movado a luxury brand?

Movado primarily competes in the “accessible luxury” segment of the watch market. A majority of their timepieces range from $500 to $2,500. This area of the market allows consumers to purchase a timepiece at a comfortable, affordable price but also have access to pieces that are closer to the entry level luxury pricing. Aside from MVMT,  Movado also owns seven other fashion watch licenses under brands like Coach, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger.

 In the last couple years these fashion watch segments accounted for almost half of their watch sales in total. Most pieces ranging from $75 to $500, these timepieces are categorized under the fashion watch segment of Movado. The goal for Movado was to offer “radically fair prices” to give more accessibility to millennials on a budget.

The brand isn’t afraid to dabble in this segment of the market which takes focus off their luxury pieces and higher end watch production. Movado has created a certain niche in the watch market that allows them to be viewed as a luxury brand to some as well as a fashion watch brand to others. 

After comparing the history, strategy, and reputation of both Movado and Tag Heuer, we’ll let you decide which brand is more appropriate for your taste and budget. Both brands have a rich history that allow the wearer to bear a timepiece from a watchmaker that has held strong to the test of time. From affordable quartz watches to fine Swiss pieces, you’ll be sure to find a watch that best fits your needs, style, and budget. 

To Top