By-Tor Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 I don't buy many watches, and when it comes to replicas I have "quality over quantity" approach. I often trade the watches I don't wear and I never make any "impulse buys", either. Also, when I'm in the verge of purchasing a new watch I always think "will it see any wrist time or not"?. But when I first saw this TAG rep I knew for sure that I would own it soon. I immediately started pestering Precious Time, my trusted dealer, and virtually forced him to get this watch into his stock. Needless to say my watch arrived well packaged and in absolutely perfect condition - quickly, and without any hassles, as usual. I rarely praise any dealers in my reviews but you really can't do it any better than PT. It's not exaggeration to claim that the new TAG Link Automatic Chronograph is one of the most impressive & accurate replica watches. I almost pulled a trigger with Bentley, but since I already own a Breitling I decided to go with the TAG first. Yes, I didn't own a TAG - or any watch with blue face for that matter... and besides, I really like the looks of this particular model. It's very sporty - and the blue dial is very beautiful and captivating. The dial is very tricky to photograph, because it has Seamaster-type "waves" (or perhaps "stripes" would be better word) on the center surface. The only way to bring up the "electric" effect is to shoot it with reflections: The crown is a standard screw-down crown and it operates normally. Pushers are rather stiff but function firmly and solidly. The replica factories and our dealers have been spoiling us with absolutely stunning replica watches recently. PO 4th Gen and 45mm, Breitling Bentley, IWC Jones & GST, and the new Navitimers. Accuracy and solid quality design (that we consider a standard now) has probably affected on the sales of less "perfect" models. This is, of course, unfortunate from the dealers' point of view. Members have become more "anal" than ever before, and we've had a few discussions about this lately. Still, I want to believe that our "anal retentive feedback" can help the factories to build better and more accurate models. Due to aggressive marketing (using sports heroes like Tiger Woods and Kimi Raikkonen... and Hollywood celebrities like Uma Thurman and Brad Pitt in their advertising) TAG Heuer has built very solid and luxurious reputation among the non-watch enthusiast circles. But hardcore WIS gang has always looked TAG down their noses. Probably because majority of TAG's sales come from grossly overpriced (and sometimes rather cheaply constructed) quartz models. WIS also think Heuer betrayed its roots when the company was bought by TAG in the mid-eighties... and as mentioned before, started moving their production more towards quartz-powered watches. HERE is a link to a brief historical background of TAG and Heuer. Personally, I have always been quite a fan of some Heuer/TAG models. I used to own a genuine Aquaracer quartz two-tone watch and I have nothing but good to say about it. Tag Aquaracer 2000 Chronograph is one of the best looking chronograph watches I've seen, and I'm anxiously awaiting for a good rep. And while I have to admit that most of TAG advertising is rather pretentious, at least they don't claim that "It takes a year to build a TAG Heuer". Quartz models aside, TAG's higher end chronograph line (Link, Aquaracer 2000/Aquagraph, Monaco, Carrera) belong to the same category with other mid-luxury brands (such as Breitling, Omega and Ebel). All these brands, like TAG, use outhouse movements and heavily base their chronograph line on Valjoux 7750. The Link Chronograph Calibre 36 even uses the mighty 36,000 vibrations per hour El Primero, which pushes it to the Daytona/ Broad Arrow/ Zenith heavyweight class. Perhaps not horologically (due to outhouse movement), but at least from practical and technical standpoint. So it's quite fair to say that (besides overpriced, overhyped quartz models) TAG also makes some very impressive sports chronographs. Like the replica of Breitling "Fighters" model, this watch has perfect subdial spacing. This is still rare to see, even on high-end replica watches that our fantastic dealers can source for us. It was almost impossible to find anything other than factory pictures for reference, so I constructed this rather poor and small comparison shot. Don't be fooled by the different lighting and photographing conditions: the only difference I'm able to spot is the larger date window on the genuine. Or perhaps it's just the factory pic that makes it look that way? The perfect subdial spacing is possible due the basic 7750 construction (12-9-6 subregister arrangement), which the new, high beat 28.800bph Asian copy of the 7750 imitates naturally. This new 7750 movement is among the most discussed topics on the rep community right now. If it turns out to be reliable... only sky is the limit... and we have a lot of watches to buy. This basic subdial arrangement makes a movement swap to genuine ETA Valjoux possible (if the original movement fails). Ziggy reports that this new, high-beat Asian 7750 should be much better built than the old movement. He has only reviewed the infamous "seconds at 6" version so far... but according to the report the movement itself should be good. Rep of TAG Link Chronograph is running in its natural evinronment (12-9-6), which hopefully improves the reliability. But only time will tell I guess... Movement. Picture borrowed from the Zigmeister. There are whoppin' eight different replica variations of the TAG Link Automatic Chronograph. It's available in black, white and blue with brushed bezel... and in grey, white and blue with polished bezel. In my version TACHYMETER is printed on the bezel surface, while it's positioned on the "inner ring" on the brushed versions. TAG's official site lists only 4 variations of the standard model. According to the site the "brushed bezel" version comes only in black and white, and the "polished" ones only in grey and blue (my watch). First I was sure that the replica factories have screwed up again and put out 2 stupid fantasy models, and adviced Precious Time to NOT include those watches in his stock. Then I found the blue "brushed" version listed for sale on watchesonnet.com[/url]. This makes me suspect that the white "polished" version could also be available on request. The jury is still out on that one. I constructed a "mosaic picture" of the all available 8 replica models which is quite impressive (the model repertoire, not my picture). Just keep in mind that a while ago we didn't have ANY decent TAG replicas. Source images are courtesy of Joshua (www.perfect-clones.com). I hope he doesn't mind me using them. Let it be known that my goal is not to endorse or put down his (or any other dealers') products when comparing these watches, but just honestly point out the flaws for the members, as objectively as possible. And all our dealers (mostly) have access to same watches anyway... There are also a"Special Edition Ayrton Senna" version available in 2 colors, which is basically the same watch, with just Ayrton Senna signature on the dial and the green 9'o'clock small running seconds hand. Unfortunately I couldn't find enough accurate information of the "Senna" models for this review, but my friend Robertk owns this watch and praises its accuracy in his review. I also like the "brushed" version very much (which Rolexman reviews and photographs HERE). He reports it's extremely well built replica and possesses instant quality feel. It looks to be just as accurate and it has more "rugged" appearance which I like. However, the datewheel in the "brushed" rep version is rather bad, which is clearly demonstrated in the next picture I constructed (again from Joshua's sales pictures). There are also excellent, Swiss ETA-powered reps of the standard, (non-chronograph) Link and Link GMT. When you examine the accuracy and quality of these new TAGs I think they are up par with the best Omega and PAM reps. Simply outstanding, and due to this sudden quality increase I suspect TAG might start getting more attention among the members, too. The Link bracelet is a famous TAG "trademark", and will make this watch easily recognizable among the watch people... and perhaps even among non-watch people, too. It has very original and innovative design and it's completely different from all other sports watch bracelets. It's very attractive, goes really well with the brushed case and polished bezel... and feels comfortable on the wrist. The Link bracelet has very "different" resizing method. It's not difficult with good instructions. That's why I have added a PDF file of the resizing process into this post (see the attachment). This very useful file was provided to us by a member called *engineer*. Big thanks! The clasp shape is pretty original with the big, oversized fliplock: Caseback with excellent, thick TRL. :) SUMMARY: When you get a new watch you're always excited. It's difficult to remain 100% objective and sometimes I notice a small bias in my reviews when I look back at them. But no matter how much I tried to find flaws and problems from this watch I can't find much at all (except the mentioned smaller date window). I'm actually overwhelmed by this TAG - and almost can't believe the rep factories forged it this well. I actually find it a bit ironic: After 200 different Rolex Submariner incarnations the rep factories have barely approached excellent accuracy (design wise) on that MUCH simpler... and thousand times more popular watch... but they replicate an obscure and rather complicated model like this almost flawlessly... on their first try. I swear, it's a conspiracy! Hope you enjoyed the review and found it useful. I really had a great time doing it... and learned a lot about TAG/Heuer during the process. Tag_Link_Bracelet.pdf Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pugwash Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 At last! This really does look all the rep we'd hoped. Great work, By-Tor. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robertk Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 By-Tor, you've outdone yourself......again. Great review. BTW, I just had the opportunity to compare my Senna model with the gen side by side. The owner of the Gen and I could find no fault. I told him that if we had a loupe we'd probably find stuff, and he said, "who goes around with a loupe?". Aside from his "can't believe it", his other comment was, "Where can I get these kind of quality reps, the hell with paying all this money for gens" LOL. Guess where I recommended him to go? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrgod Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 (edited) Excellent review, as always! It is too easy to be nitpicking these days, when there are so many excellent replicas to choose from. But this one is indeed one of the very best. Definently a "must-have" Edited August 2, 2006 by chrgod Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
triplehd Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 Now that's a review! Great job Tor ! Might have to shift from collecting Omegas and move on to Tags. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
By-Tor Posted August 2, 2006 Author Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 Thanks all! Just for the record: This is the only non-factory gen pic I managed to find from the blue dial version. And I swear: I can't see ANY difference. NOTHING! I'm not sure about the date window size though. But I'm sure someone will find at least something. It's a weird feeling. Now that I stare at it... perhaps the date font is a bit offcenter on my watch? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
By-Tor Posted August 2, 2006 Author Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 And here's the traditional "review wristshot" that I forgot. Sorry. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pugwash Posted August 2, 2006 Report Share Posted August 2, 2006 perhaps the date font is a bit offcenter on my watch? Not convinced. Set it to the 4th and check it against the genuine pic at the same angle and time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
By-Tor Posted August 3, 2006 Author Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Not convinced. Set it to the 4th and check it against the genuine pic at the same angle and time. I swear, when it changed to "3" it's more noticeable. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
2005SUBMARINER Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 hey BT Im not a TAG fan , but the link looks mighty fine to me !!!! awsome enjoy ! i love the ss BAND hey BT what do you mean by There's ZERO customs risk (for us EU guys) when the watch gets shipped from UK. no risk for USA customers if the watch is shipped from UK ? dont they have customs there scaning for reps ? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mikellem Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 By-Tor, This review is utterly magnificent ! Your reviews keep getting better and better! Thanks for the great job... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bazz Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Outstanding post and review once again Great comparison and great pics Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
swdivad Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Great review By-Tor! I am not really a Tag fan.. despite the Link calibre 36 being quite nice I got rid of mine after only a month for something else.... The dial was too busy for me and it was very hard to read, especially at night. This Link chrono, although is a beauty and I may be getting it soon... the only thing I'm up in the air about it now is what color I will be getting, I like the tach scale on the bezel much better than on the inside of the crystal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alextor Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 GREAT REVIEW B-T!!! aka. the dean of all reports perfect. You put the 'need' in the phrase "I really need to get one of these"...impressive, thorough, honest. Learning material... (but I'll wait for the next generation...apparently it's going to be manufactured by Tag) Gotta email PT!!!where are my pilllsssss...? Cheers Alex Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nxuan Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Thank you for excellent review. You are an asset to RWG. Now, I am tempted. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thedoctor Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 What an excellent review. I don't have any Tag's in my collection, but have been thinking about it. Tag Heuer was the college guys dream watch when I was in school. I'm still not convinced that the new asian valjoux is a solid movement. I'm thinking about one of the eta reps. Does anyone know what base movement then gen link models use? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Category 5 Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 What an excellent review. I don't have any Tag's in my collection, but have been thinking about it. Tag Heuer was the college guys dream watch when I was in school. I'm still not convinced that the new asian valjoux is a solid movement. I'm thinking about one of the eta reps. Does anyone know what base movement then gen link models use? I have yet to hear anything bad about the new asian 7750s...despite their reputation being tarnished by the old model. Either way, the swiss 7750s come up on the bay for under $250 sometimes. It would be really cool to replace a broken asian with the swiss version and basically have a "virtual-gen" Link. By-Tor cost me $1200 when he started flashing pix of the Aquaracer again (although I had and sold the quartz version so the Auto was destined to find me somehow). Now he is going to cost me again. I don;t want to be searching for one of these in 6 monthns and read stuff like "Remember that awesome Link chrono rep that was around last year? Why don't they maken them like that anymore?" Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ahchard Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Great Review By-Tor!!! I have been planning to get this as my next watch... the only thing holding me back was when it was mentioned about the off-centered date in the window... but it seems fine in your photos. Robertk, what about your Senna edition? When you say you couldn't tell the difference from the gen... I assume the date is centered then? Which dealer did you get it from? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ryaku Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Great Review By-Tor!!! I have been planning to get this as my next watch... the only thing holding me back was when it was mentioned about the off-centered date in the window... but it seems fine in your photos. Robertk, what about your Senna edition? When you say you couldn't tell the difference from the gen... I assume the date is centered then? Which dealer did you get it from? Congratulations By-Tor, watch is great and your review at the same level. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
By-Tor Posted August 3, 2006 Author Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Great Review By-Tor!!! I have been planning to get this as my next watch... the only thing holding me back was when it was mentioned about the off-centered date in the window... but it seems fine in your photos. It _is_ about 0.0001mm offcenter... too right with single-digit fonts. But I didn't realize it before I stared the watch long enough. Definitely not noticeable. And it's perfectly aligned on Y-axis. Many old 7750-based watches had a problem with that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
By-Tor Posted August 3, 2006 Author Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 (edited) Does anyone know what base movement then gen link models use? The gen Link chronographs use quartz, ETA 7750 and El Primero. The model line starts from Link Quartz chronograph, then Link Automatic Chronograph (ETA Valjoux 7750)... and Calibre 36 (the top model) uses Zenith El Primero. PS: Thanks all for your comments, appreciated! Edited August 3, 2006 by By-Tor Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gerco Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Great review !!!!!! I think i'll do some car washing & some male gigolo work to get the funds to buy the great Tag Blue ! Gerco Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pugwash Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 hey BT what do you mean by There's ZERO customs risk (for us EU guys) when the watch gets shipped from UK. no risk for USA customers if the watch is shipped from UK ? dont they have customs there scaning for reps ? The UK is part of the EU. It's almost the same as if you post something from Texas to California. Being part of the European Union means there's no tax/duty to be paid taking items over the borders of say France and Germany, even though they're separate countries. There's no point in checking if watches are genuine or replicas as there's no duty to be collected on either. Quick edit to say ... if you order from the UK to the US, there is duty to be paid, so packages will be scanned the same as those coming from China. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jetsons Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 Beautiful watch and as usual, kick [censored] review, Bytor! Good to know that should the Asian movement develop issues down the road, the ETA 7750 should be a simple transplant. Enjoy! Jet Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
marrickvilleboy Posted August 3, 2006 Report Share Posted August 3, 2006 well done yet again! SO damn close to the genuine - the crown looks a little different but that would easily fool even the most intricate WIS. wear it well! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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