[cmartin]

I'm thinking about getting one of the new Tag Carrera's soon. Anyone have a local or online watch shop to recommend? Bailey Banks & Biddle carry's the line, but dont seem to discount much, I'm always looking for a deal.

[Rick Lee]

Some manufacturers run sales at all their retailers. That's what made my Breitling a little more affordable. I got it at Lenkersdorfer's in Tyson's. Some of those high end watches are hard to buy on the Internet with any assurance of authenticity. Breitling states on their website that they won't honor any warranty on any watch that was purchased via the Internet. I've heard the fakes are getting so good that the factory sometimes can't tell the difference.

[BW911]

Chris,

There are lots of reputable watch sources on line, if you are careful. The critical thing is insisting on an intact serial number. Some of the non-reputable big discounters sell gray market and file off the serial numbers. Ask about that before putting any money down.

I'd suggest going to www.timezone.com -- a big online watch forum/community. Read it for a while and you'll pick up on recommendations.

A good virtual and real store is www.wannabuyawatch. They're in LA and really know their stuff. I've been in their shop on trendy Melrose, They don't handle Tag but pick up a lot of stuff and might be able to steer you right.

One of the top online places is actually in Spain, Gisbert A. Joseph, www.joseph-watches.com. They have an excellent reputation. You can learn a lot, and kill a lot of time, browing their inventory online. Not cheap, but high quality stuff, especially if you like vintage. There are tons more in Asia and and some in Caribbean. Some specialize in particular brands

At risk of sounding like a watch snob, in the horological world some look a bit askance at Tag because it basically is a marketing company that contracts with others to manufacture their line, as opposed to being a manufacturer of mechanical timepieces themselves. But they keep time as good as any, and they have made some very cool watches. Some of the old '60s and '70s Carreras were terrific and are very desirable now. For a while I was after one that had a salmon-colored face. Really nice Carrera. A few years ago, some of their new Tiger Woods chronos were very hot items. Check Ebay -- they usually have a lot of Tags.

Finally, there are a couple decent watchsellers in downtown DC, and most will discount if you ask for it. (You have to ask.)

As you can probably tell, I've bought and sold a few watches. I'm out of it now, fortunately, and only have five or six I really like But PM me if I can help.

Bill

[cmartin]

Thanks guys, great information. My dad has an old Carrera, I've always wanted one. 2004 is the 40th edition of the watch, limited 1964 produced... you get the idea. My pop is telling me to blow the next comission check on one, anyone want to buy some software?

Thanks for the links Bill, looks like I have some reading to do.