Running through the base models of the TAG Heuer range of the 1990s; a restructure of operations was brought about largely by the disruption caused by the introduction of quartz technology during the 1970s. The Heuer watch company was in severe financial distress by the 1980s and not only financial rationalisation was required; a review of all products that formed the basis of the current TAG Heuer range was undertaken.
The 1000 series formed the entry-level base models and I liked what was on offer. This was a 1970s vintage timepiece based on Rolex styling although I can’t say I’m a fan of the jubilee type bracelet. As an entry-level timepiece, the 1000 series was an affordable purchase into Swiss watch ownership for plenty of people. I knew very little of the 1500 series and really had to search for examples finding the 1500 series is actually a hybrid of the 1000 and 2000 series. The 1500 was purely a quartz series as the watch was released when quartz movements threatened traditional mechanical movements.
The 1500 was a little too close to the 2000 series, the lugs on the face of the bezel on the 1500 are pointed whilst the 2000 series lugs are much smaller. The 2000 series morphed into the Aquaracer, I looked into purchasing a 2000 series briefly before deciding on a S/el chronograph. In a somewhat ironic turn of events, I finally purchased an Aquaracer with ceramic bezel.
This was in late 2016 nearly twenty years after first TAG Heuer purchase after seriously considering the 2000 series. I am glad I waited as I really like my ceramic bezel Calibre 5 automatic Aquaracer. The 4000 series was replaced by Kirium, during my initial searching; I never really considered the 4000 series but ended up with a Kirium requiring repair as a gift. I had to replace the quartz movement in the Kirium as the movement was left in the sun burning the electrical components out.
I still wear the Kirium occasionally but really can’t regard myself as a fan of either the 4000 series or the Kirium. The S/el series was and still is my favourite TAG Heuer timepiece of the era. I was initially drawn to the 2000 series as a close friend of mine was the proud owner of a gold/stainless steel 2000 series.
The S/el was transformed into the Link range and whilst good, I hope the S/el is re-released as a heritage model as the Link has already been reviewed a re-released already. Heritage models are keenly sought after with 1960s inspired timepieces driving heritage inspired sales, I guess a S/el revival is still a number of years away.
The 6000 series was considered the the premium range but I really struggle to see why. After TAG Heuer was once again deemed financially secure, the search for a flagship timepiece led to the development of the 6000 series that also came in precious metals. I just don’t like the styling or design of the 6000 series and think the watch looks very dated. I don’t the bezel on the 6000 series, the case or the bracelet but the redeeming feature of the timepiece is the dial.
Observations in an undemocratic world 