Vintage Tag Heuer Black Coral worth anything?

[Danfactor6]

I'm cleaning out my husband's dresser and have come across one of his old watches. He thinks it's worth nothing, as is, but I disagree. It works (well it worked last time it was used in 1998) and most likely needs a new battery. It is in need of some repair, which he doesn't care to do. I think that back in 1986 this watch was a big deal for him, but 25 years later, his tastes have changed. I took a bunch of pictures and if anyone thinks it's worth selling (even if for parts), please share your thoughts. I just don't want to misrepresent it, since I know nothing about watches. I figure board members are knowledgeable and can point me in the right direction or tell me if I'm wasting my time.

Thanks!

Link

[bmwfreak]

Yes, the watch has value. Condition is everything. Your watch appears to be in good condition only missing the end piece and shows some scratches on the crystal. If you have the battery replaced and the watch works, it is obviously worth more. Otherwise, a buyer is taking a chance the watch will work with new battery which is not always the case. A similar watch in working condition could get $200-$300 maybe more to the right buyer.

[Danfactor6]

Thanks so much for the feedback. I will get the battery replaced tomorrow morning and will report back.

In the meantime, did I do a decent job with the photos? I'm well-versed in taking pictures of ........, to prove authenticity, but not so much in watches.

[bmwfreak]

Pictures look good. My only suggestion would be to get closer pics of the back so you can read all the engravings.

[Danfactor6]

Thank you!

[Danfactor6]

Okay, the watch works. It just needed a new battery, just as I thought. I also took a picture of the back (I had to get out the macro lens for that one).

I'm going to list it and hopefully someone will be interested. Thanks again for your help.

[Ken R]

I'm cleaning out my husband's dresser and have come across one of his old watches. He thinks it's worth nothing, as is, but I disagree. It works (well it worked last time it was used in 1998) and most likely needs a new battery. It is in need of some repair, which he doesn't care to do. I think that back in 1986 this watch was a big deal for him, but 25 years later, his tastes have changed. I took a bunch of pictures and if anyone thinks it's worth selling (even if for parts), please share your thoughts. I just don't want to misrepresent it, since I know nothing about watches. I figure board members are knowledgeable and can point me in the right direction or tell me if I'm wasting my time.

Thanks!

Link

I too have an identical Black Coral watch purchased in 1986 that needs repair. Recently went swimming with it on and shortly after, quit working. Sent it back to TAG for repair and I received a "form" letter stating it's unrepairable and they'll refund me 10% of a new purchase (limited to $200) if I purchase a new watch within 90 days. The watch has a lot of sentimental value and I REALLY hope to get it repaired somehow. I don't need it back to the original water-resistant quality. Any ideas??

[Drop of a Hat]

I too have an identical Black Coral watch purchased in 1986 that needs repair. Recently went swimming with it on and shortly after, quit working. Sent it back to TAG for repair and I received a "form" letter stating it's unrepairable and they'll refund me 10% of a new purchase (limited to $200) if I purchase a new watch within 90 days. The watch has a lot of sentimental value and I REALLY hope to get it repaired somehow. I don't need it back to the original water-resistant quality. Any ideas??

Depends what you mean by "quit working". If the movement was flooded, and it's been a long time, you may have to buy a new one. I would suggest finding a local watchmaker (not a jewelry store) and have them take a look. Usually, these guys are pretty creative.

Good luck.

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[Ken R]

Appreciate it, Drop of a Hat. I'm assuming the movement was flooded as there was some condensation underneath the crystal for a day or two. Took it to both a jewelry store and a local watchmaker and both say it is not repairable. I find it hard to believe it cannot be repaired, don't want to give up as it has much sentimental value.

[Drop of a Hat]

Appreciate it, Drop of a Hat. I'm assuming the movement was flooded as there was some condensation underneath the crystal for a day or two. Took it to both a jewelry store and a local watchmaker and both say it is not repairable. I find it hard to believe it cannot be repaired, don't want to give up as it has much sentimental value.

I know next to nothing about the old Tags, but it may be possible to replace the movement with something similar or even better. Maybe contact one of the watch guys that are known on WUS to work some magic.

Jay at motorcity watchworks
Jack at international watchworks

See what they say. You've got nothing to lose.

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