The original fake TAG Heuer watches weren’t a problem to spot, because they cost nothing to buy (£20, for example) and were clearly replicas — even when viewed from a distance.

However, as time has gone on, the quality of fake TAG Heuer watches has improved (on the surface, at least); at first, they were still obviously replicas when viewed close up, but nowadays, it can be tough to recognise a counterfeit unless you know exactly what to look for. Even then, experts are sometimes holding their hands up to say they’re not 100 per cent certain.

Realistically, unless a buyer has two watches in their hands — a real TAG Heuer and a fake — then it isn’t possible anymore to tell the difference. Photos alone certainly won’t give you the information you require regarding the quality of craftsmanship, finish and materials.

Of course, if you are making the purchase online, you’ll only have the watch in your hand if you have already bought it — at which point, it is often too late.

Nowadays, the typical fake TAG Heuer comes with a guarantee card, branded paperwork, a swing tag, a branded box — even a branded bag — so all of these items shouldn’t be taken into consideration when you are deciding on a purchase from a non-authorised seller.

The paperwork should always feature a serial number and embossed holographic seal, and this used to be a reliable method of sorting the real from the fake. Unfortunately, even these documents can now be forged successfully.

So, taking all of the above into account, how can you really tell if a TAG Heuer watch is genuine or not?

How to tell if a TAG Heuer watch is fake

With it being so difficult to spot a fake, it is crucial to understand which TAG Heuer watches are most likely to be replicated.

Standard issue models are far more likely to be copied than limited edition models, as standard issues are likely to be easier to forge. Also, they offer criminals years to fine-tune their version — therefore getting it as close to the genuine version as possible.

The most vulnerable models include the TAG Heuer Formula 1 series and the Aquaracer series, so always steer clear of purchasing these online from anywhere unreputable — this includes eBay.

Unfortunately for you — the potential buyer — one of the best ways to check for a counterfeit luxury watch of any kind is to test its performance and reliability over time, but, of course, that isn’t often an option for you when making a purchase. Fake TAG Heuer watches won’t ever perform as well as the authentic originals.

Where to buy a genuine TAG Heuer watch

A TAG Heuer Gents Aquaracer 43mm Blue Dial Stainless Steel Automatic Watch

Buying online is an additional concern when it comes to spotting fake TAG Heuer watches, which is why it is imperative that you only buy from a trusted, authorised retailer such as Robert Gatward Jewellers.

You can explore our range of TAG Heuer watches in our online shop or visit us in-store to see them for yourself and try them on. We look forward to sharing our official TAG Heuer range with you; however you prefer to shop.

If you have any questions about our TAG Heuer watches, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.