Mark,

Thank you for your reply, perspective and photo. As a newbie to Heuer collecting I do not think it appropriate to continue to raise a topic here that has been likely discussed before, namely whether a tool watch should be anything other than steel. However, from collecting other brands, my first priority is to collect what I like and secondly if you like what is out of favor there is the potential for purchasing value. Trends and demand for certain styles will change over time. You could not give away Rolex Explorer 2 (Steve McQueen) watches in the 70s or 80s and manual Daytonas could be bought in 1985 in steel for $200.

I do not look at vintage Heuer as tool watches. For me they are classically and wonderfully designed watches that are at home in a race car or with a suit. I think they have evolved beyond a "tool watch". For me the ultimate tool watch is Sinn. They lack the style of Heuer but offer great functionality and reliability. Anyway, I think there is a place in anyone's collection for a gold or gold plated Heuer. Worn not with the 70's gold plated band but with a stylish leather or croc band, these watches can really fit in today. I am not a cheerleader for gold plated Heuer watches. I do like the SS models much more but it just seems that there is a big difference in price and potentially a good opportunity to purchase value for those wanting to start or add to a collection.

Could someone give me their opinion on the watch below? Is it a good specimen worthy of $900. The photo is not great and the watch could likely benefit from a polish but assuming it is in good working order, a three register Heuer with val 7736 manual movement for that price seems to be a good deal. If there are others like this for sale, it could be of interest when SS models go for 3 times as much. Thanks again

Jesse