1000

The Tag Heuer 1000 series captures the early days of Swiss dive watches made for everyday wear, first introduced in the late 1970s when Heuer was transitioning into the quartz era. Originally conceived as a rugged tool watch for both professionals and recreational divers, the 1000 became a gateway into luxury sports watches for many collectors. Its blend of classic Submariner-inspired design and Tag Heuer’s approachable pricing has made it a favorite among those seeking vintage charm without breaking the bank.

Key references include the 980.013 (mid-size), 980.014 (full-size), and the 980.021 (gold-tone), each available in both quartz and automatic variants. Most models feature a 38mm or 42mm case, with screw-down crowns and a 200m water resistance rating, making them practical for actual diving or daily wear. The quartz versions use the reliable ESA 536.121 movement, while automatics house the ETA 2824-2, with the latter typically commanding higher prices due to mechanical appeal and lower production numbers.

Desirability is driven by dial condition, originality of the bezel insert, and whether the watch retains its signed crown and bracelet. Early “Heuer”-only dials (pre-Tag merger) are especially sought after, with collectors paying premiums for untouched examples. Price variation also hinges on case size and movement—automatics, larger cases, and rare dial variants fetch more. When shopping, confirm the reference number inside the caseback and look for correct period details, as many 1000s have been modified or serviced with later Tag Heuer parts over the decades.