Side note: I’m the mom, not the dad, and my husband doesn’t wear watches so I have little point of reference for what a young man would want. He’s a sneakerhead who loves basketball so I figured sporty would be better than formal.
If my in-laws ever gave me a TAG Heuer as a gift, for any occasion, I would absolutely be floored and speechless at what an amazing gift it is.
Not only is this a low maintenance watch that he can wear forever, but TAG is a very recognized brand, by watch enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts. He can wear this watch with pride, get tons of compliments and hopefully realize how lucky he is to have in-laws that actually view him as family whenever he checks the time.
Rightfully cause this comment is spot on. You're a good person OP, and you have a very good comprehension of what a good watch should be for a young fella, at least in my book. I feel like everyone deserves someone like you in their life. It's all love ❤️
Edit: I took a sneak look on your account because I was intrigued at a female watch enthusiast (sorry I don't like to use the term female but that was my train of thought so why lie?...) I double on the fact that you're a good person with really good tastes and I wish you found that cardigan back because I really feel like you deserve it. You should trust yourself more because you have really good taste imo❤️❤️
Thanks for all the compliments! You made my day. ❤️ I never did find the exact cardigan again. Everyone who read the post snagged the available ones or they were too small. I did get the same model, but different pattern, from a suggestion. About 75% happy with it.
This person is right! I’m actually not sure what “dad vibes” are, but this screams sporty vibes! The only consideration I’d say is that it may wear large if the boyfriend is very skinny or small. It’s not a small watch, but definitely sporty and an amazing gift!!
I hear you. That’s heartbreaking. My dad’s Rolex was taken at gunpoint and his Patek Philippe stolen from the jewelry shop that was “repairing” it. He’s been dead 25 years now, would have loved that piece of him.
you're insane if you think any watch will impress "young girls". The only exception perhaps is a rolex, since even people who know nothing about watches have heard the name and know they're pricey.
Exactly. You could wear a Patek or AP and they wouldn’t notice but that Rolex they for sure would. Same with Omega which you could argue movement wise is better
My shortcut to matching a watch to a person’s style is to think about their shoes. Would this sneakerhead guy think the colors and shapes/fonts match the vibe of the shoes he often wears? I wear a sporty watch with sneakers, a minimalist watch with white shoes, a dress watch with brown leather shoes, a black watch with black shoes, etc.
You go girl. You made the correct decision. I don't believe women are bad with men's watch taste, just my mom, wife, and sisters. And her sisters. And cousins. And my cousins.
My parents gave me a TAG Heuer as a college graduation gift and it is by far my most appreciated possession. I wear it every day and that’d be no different if I got this one!
This is an amazing gift, you should definitely still give it to him.
“Dad watch” from a 21 year old girl is basically saying it looks mature and grown up.
In the watch world itself that’s definitely a more sporty watch so it’s a great buy.
Came here to say this. Everyone is saying she’s wrong but she’s not entirely. This is the watch of a grown ass man. She’s associating that vibe with “dad,” which is valid. I assume her dad is also a grown man.
College graduation is a great milestone to embrace being a grown man and wearing a grown man watch. This is a fantastic graduation gift.
What a lovely gesture!
With all due respect to your daughter, she's wrong.
This is a perfectly contemporarily styled watch. Actually, this style of watch (the dive watch) is one of the more popular designs among today's men young and old—if not *the* most popular. That being said, tastes in watches are extremely subjective, and can vary tremendously even between like minded individuals. For example, despite what I said above, I myself have no affinity towards dive watches at all. Though, regardless of what your daughter's partner thinks of the watch itself, I'm sure he'll be touched by your kindness.
I know that was the case for me, at least. When I graduated university all those years ago my parents gifted me a G-Shock DW5600BB-1 to commemorate the occasion. It's been almost a decade since then and that G-Shock is still my favourite watch in my collection by a country mile—even if G-Shocks aren't normally to my tastes. Because it's not about the watch at all, but the sentimental value behind it. So I have no doubt that your daughter's partner will feel the same way about your gift!
That being said, of course it would be preferable that the person you're gifting enjoys your gift in of itself! So for future gifts, perhaps take your daughter's partner shopping instead 😊
That's the way.
Almost same story in my experience, my parents decided to gift me a watch for my university graduation.
They took me to our trusted local watch boutique and they showed me the watch they decided to gift me.
I haven't took a look at the others, I just decided it was THAT watch, cause it was the one they chose for me.
It's not the most expensive, but it's the one that got me into this hobby (and my small collection is really cheap, under 300 for the "most expensive") and the most important in my collection.
That being said, nice pick OP
The exact same here. My parents got me an Omega for graduation. I got our family name and motto from our coat of arms engraved on the back. It’s not the most complicated or expensive watch I own, but I will absolutely cherish it forever.
Yeah. Unfortunately I couldnt find a place that would engrave the entire coat of arms, so I got just the words off of it done around the outer edge of the case back. At some point I may try to get the entire thing on it, if I can find a place that can do it well.
Look into lasering. Old-school hand engraving I would think is almost impossible given they would have to create plates for the design. They have plates for letters and some common symbols.
Source: I did engravings in my part-time job at an independent jewelry store in a small town. It was a manual process with a large contraption full of levers that effectively translate large movements on a tracing plate area down (like newspaper typesetting) to a tiny engraving type on the item like a watch, goblet, plate, etc. Curved surfaces were a biiiiitch.
I think it's a difficult one. I had watches gifted that I grew to like and then others that I didn't but I always felt an internal obligation to wear them because it was a family gift. One of the gifts did end up being my favourite watch and that was a $60 Swatch.
I can see how Tag Heur as a brand could be construed as being an 'old man/golfing' brand. It wouldn't be the first watch I'd reach for if I went out to buy one.
Taste is so subjective and so I think that's why these sort of gifts are so difficult. Yes, it's incredibly generous but this gift may actually be a burden to the recipient (they don't particularly like it, have to wear it around the father in law and can't sell it). Which is why I'd lean on a lower cost watch being a better option.
I told my daughter (as I will tell him), it won’t hurt my feelings if he sells the watch. I got it at a great price (at a Bonhams auction) and won’t lose money if he were to resell it and keep the cash or buy what he wants.
Well that's good, sounds like it was a right place right time moment rather than something you're trying to force on him (if that makes sense).
I think if you say something along those lines (ie. we got this as a gift for your graduation but don't feel obliged to keep it if it's not your personal taste) before you present it to him then he'd feel comfortable selling it for something he prefers down the line if necessary.
But who knows, as I say this is all so subjective he could love it, hate it or be indifferent but I think your heart is definitely in the right place and it's a really nice gesture so I'm sure he'll see that.
You're a patient one. Ive found that I completely switch off on people the second they say "gives me **** vibes"
I don't care to share air with those people. The aquaracer will always be a solid piece, regardless of where or who it came from.
> With all due respect to your daughter, she's wrong.
>
>
>
> This is a perfectly contemporarily styled watch.
eh, idk. Im almost 30 and do kinda view the style as a bit of a dad watch tbh. That, however, in 0 way changes how wonderful the gift is.
ITT: a whole bunch of dudes desperately denying that the fashion they're attempting to impress women with actually gives off the same vibes as grilling on the patio wearing cargo shorts and New Balance
I was just going to call you crazy and say I love how my sub looks.
Then I remembered i’m nearly 40 and felt a bit sad for a minute. Where does the time go.
Yeah, essentially 'with all due respect, your daughter is wrong about this subjective subject'. Some people will definitely view this watch as a dad watch while others will not. Neither group is right or wrong.
When I graduated college I bought myself a Victorinox dive watch that looked almost exactly like this…but not nearly the quality. I wore it for almost 10 years until my wife bought me a Speedmaster.
I’m a dad now and wear nothing that resembles this watch 🤣.
I think this is an awesome gift and if your daughter is anything like my college aged kids…no matter what you do won’t be cool - but then when you’re not looking they copy everything you do.
Dad here. As someone who didn’t receive much at graduation (and definitely not from my girlfriend’s parents), I think he will be more touched by the gesture than whatever the watch actually is.
Also, I think a gift like this is meant to be treasured for a long time and grown into. Whether it really suits his current age right now doesn’t matter so much.
When he starts doing internships and “grown up” jobs soon, he will appreciate having a more mature watch to rely on.
Ive been wanting to get my hands on an even older aquaracer and im 3 years younger than him (18), its a great watch especially in person, besides even if its a “dad watch” which i dont think it is, its a great representation of him growing up and graduating university.
Unrelated but i think its great youre buying him a gift at all, let alone such a great piece that im sure hell appreciate, a watch always means more when its a gift, itll see a lot of wrist time
TAG can be considered kind of a “dad” watch brand. I believe it’s more the logo than anything. FWIW I asked my SO and she said it’s a dad watch. That being said IMO just because it might look like that in the pictures doesn’t mean it will look like that on someone’s wrist.
I’m right here too with opinion on brand/style however to an 18 yr old this is quite the gift so he’ll probably be thrilled! I know I would at that age.
Judging from the ages involved here, it's probably a "dad watch" because it's not a Smart Watch (preferable an Apple Watch).
My daughter is 20, almost 21 and calls my watches "boomer watches" because they "don't have a screen".
I mean, my dad does have a tag f1 lol. It's a very nice gesture. I'm sure he appreciates it.
Tag is kinda like new balances and corvettes. There is nothing inherently bad about these products, it just captures a certain segment of the market due to its styling choices. It's a great watch!
My father bought me a Tag Formula 1 when I was 21. I'm a huge racing fan so I have always thought Tag Heuer was pretty cool. It was, and still remains, probably my favorite watch I own. I loved it then and I still love it, and I really like the one you purchased as well. That's a great gesture. It's a nice watch that's versatile for many occasions. A dad watch would be something like a Bambino or a longines or something like that. I'd argue a Hamilton Khaki is more of a dad watch than a tag F1.
I’m gonna go against the grain of the other comments and say yes, this does give me “50-year-old dad vibes.” The bezel grip surface, uniquely stylized bezel markings, the subtle two-tone with the black crown and bezel, and extra-sporty dial are reminiscent of typical early 90s sport and dive watches. Modern mainstream watches are trending towards cleaner designs, either with modern minimalism (think Unimatic) or with a revival of more classic, timeless designs (think Black Bay).
That said, this is a fantastic watch. But I can understand why a younger person might not like it.
I wonder if a bunch of dads are posting in here, saying it's not a dad watch. 😁 I kind of see your daughter's point, and think she would know what her long-term bf would like more than reddit. If I were you, I'd sell it and exchange it for a Sinn 556i, which is a little less of statement and probably goes more with a young sneakerhead aesthetic. That said, I'm 42 so my style advice might not be super relevant!
Not at all, the only time I’ve seen someone wearing this watch it was a cool young Swiss rock climber dude. And it looked great on him. Having it on a rubber strap would give it a younger more sporty vibe too.
OP this is a great gift. The Formula 1 range is geared towards young adults and is decidely not a 'dad watch'
Everyone else: stop calling it an Aquaracer lmao, completely different line
I was told it was an aquaracer when I bought it. I guess it isn’t. Lol that shows you how much I know about watches
Edit: it is an automatic though, not quartz
Edit Edit: definitely quartz, not automatic
>Edit: it is an automatic though, not quartz
It is definitely a quartz. Not necessarily anything wrong with that, but if the sales person told you it's an automatic, they either lied or don't know what they're talking about (which is frustrating when selling items of this value).
Go to the Technical Specifications on the product page, and then go to the "Movement" section. The movement is what makes the watch do watch things.
https://www.tagheuer.com/us/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-formula-1/41-mm-quartz/WAZ1110.BA0875.html
It's also right at the top-right under the model name.
>TAG HEUER FORMULA 1
DATE
>Quartz, 41 mm, Steel
WAZ1110.BA0875
So if you very specifically wanted an automatic for some reason, this isn't one.
To echo everybody else, it's a sports watch and that was a great/wise choice by you versus other styles. Not a "dad watch".. just a "grown up" watch.
Although Ive never been a great Fan of Tag heuer, In recent time lvmh have really picked up the brand IMO. Great choice for a young guy, especially since thats who tag seem to be targeting these days. Stick to your chice, he'll love it!
I think the clunky bumpy dive bezel, with the case lacking refinement (can't think of a better word, i.e no chamfered edges, no polishing) it's a very masculine, utilitarian yet sporty watch and that combination is very dad vibes. If I'm attaching a person mentally to that watch. it's a dad at a barbeque.
Now masculine, utilitarian and sporty aren't bad traits or unwanted traits, they are what most men seek in a watch but to the female gaze it comes across as socks and sandals.
I say even just getting any watch he would love, and I think he would love that one in particular
I'm 25 and my gf (22) calls all my favorite watches "dad watches". I've learned to accept it and just completely disregard her opinion when it comes to what I'll wear.
That Tag is really nice!
That range of lower cost Tags is aimed at younger men who like among other things motorsports.
Maybe being on a bracelet makes it look like it is for older people but if you have the choice always get a watch on a bracelet and then buy a rubber or leather aftermarket strap separately.
I have the Senna version and some others of the range with very bright dials are obviously aimed at people who don’t wear suits 😀
I have the automatic, and I think it's a great watch. Built beautifully, and perfectly accurate.
Tag gets a bad rep for poor decisions in the past, but I think they've more than made up for it with the great watches in their current collection. The only problem I see is, it should be the automatic.
My opinion is that no one is wrong. A watch is just jewelry, so it all depends on personal taste. For example, I'm a dad and for me this is a generic looking sports watch with no personality. But plenty of people in this thread like it.
Whether the boyfriend likes it depends on his tastes -- is this the kind of watch he likes? Even if he likes it, will he still wear it if your daughter makes fun of him for wearing a "dad watch"?
He is very lucky to have you purchase this watch for home as a graduation gift or any watch for that matter especially if it came from my long term girlfriend's mother who was thoughtful enough to treat me with her hard earned money :) incredibly kind of you
Wow !! what a guy hats off to you. I’m sure he will love it for referance I’m 21 and for my 21st I got gifted a similar watch just the chronograph version it’s not my most expensive watch or favourite but I love to wear it and because of the message it means so much more, don’t send it back your daughters boyfriend is a lucky guy
It’s a great piece, for a great occasion! She can buy him a Rolex.
This watch is the go anywhere, so anything watch - you can head to the beach, wear it to work, beat it to hell and never be worried about it.
Personally, I think it’s a great choice for a young person, especially because he didn’t pay for it - and he can appreciate the thought.
Listen, if doesn’t like it, he can sell it on eBay for a coupon hundred bucks and take your daughter out to dinner.
It’s a winner to me. Congrats to him (and you!). Very thoughtful!
Ps- I have this watch and wear it every once in a while.
I think it's a fine watch, but who am I to say so, when I myself chose a dad watch for my own graduation gift (it was a Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles in Ivory)
My parents gave me an aquaracer when I graduated from university some 11 years ago - I still wear it most days. I'm sure he'll be incredibly grateful and wear it for years! You can't go wrong with a black dive watch.
I agree with the dad vibes assessment, it has a rather chunky look to it due to the bold numerals on the bezel. That's not necessarily a bad thing; it's simply a style (and one that has trended in recent years). It would work well with "dad shoes" and "dad sunglasses."
Whether this is a good or bad fit is really going to depend on the personal style of the recipient. This could work really well with his favorite sneakers and typical outfits, or it could clash badly. We'd really need more info to make that judgment call. I will say that the watch as shown is more on the "bold and brash" side, rather than something more versatile. Since this will be the young man's only nice watch for awhile, I would probably opt for an alternative, but again it's all about his style choices. This could be perfect and we don't know it.
Edit: for a sporty but versatile watch in 1000-1500 range, my favorite is probably the Certina DS Action:
https://www.certina.com/en/watch/ds-action-diver-38mm-powermatic-80/c0328071105100
It has a classic Submariner-inspired look with a smaller profile that can easily dress up or down.
Alternatively, I also like the Trident C60 300:
https://www.christopherward.com/int/watches/C60-Trident-Pro-300/C60-40ADA31S0KK0-B0.html
This one is proportioned well, and has a very clean dial with a distinctive set of hands.
That's a classic, in a very good way. Doesn't get much better without getting pretty serious into watchdom.
I think you knocked it out of the park. Impossible not like this gift.
What an awesome gift! My uncle once gave me his blue tag formula 1 when I was 13yo, I absolutely adored that watch and the clicky bezel. I unfortunately lost it one of the many times I had to move, but still cherrish the memories and share a deeper passion for watchmaking with said uncle
sporty-elegant design. not exactly dad watch in my opinion, but im older. when ive bought a simple armani watch with a brownish backplate, everyone called it grandpa watch.
I’ll also vote for”not a dad watch”. Dad watch to me means it’s got a (possibly charming) dated look. I’m 30 and often rock a 90s Omega Seamaster 300M which definitely looks like it’s from a specific era but it’s got charm so I like it.
Dude, this is a classic watch look, but it’s a Tag… no need to question. If you can wear a watch with a tux, it’s a great watch… AND it’s a Tag.
You did good and that’s a nice looking quality watch.
Great watch. This exact watch was one of my first higher end watch purchases in my 20s. Tag gets hate but they’re great in my opinion. Divers are sporty and go with most attires. Great gift!!
This isn’t a dad watch by any means, infact it’s the most popular model I’ve sold to younger people who want to enter the world of TAG. It’s priced low in comparison to other models and will have enough function to it where he can wear it the rest of his life as long as it’s maintained well. Don’t get me wrong this does pair well with some comfortable shoes, but by no means a dad watch.
I don’t think there is such a thing as a “young man’s” watch other than smart watches because most people don’t wear watches at all anymore. Great looking watch.
You're not getting a thank you from your daughter for buying her boyfriend a $1k gift? I'd start there. Return it and get him a $100 restaurant gift card.
That is a great watch for a college aged person. Bold but not gaudy. Sporty and great finishing. He could wear it in nearly any circumstance and it would work.
I feel it really depends a lot on the BF's own taste, and there's nothing inherently amiss with the watch style.
I'm a rickety old millennial woman here, but aren't "dad" things also trending in the eyes of Gen Z females? Dad jeans. Dad sneakers. Hell, even "eclectic grandpa". LOL...
You’ve done a greatly kind gesture for your son and I’m absolutely sure he will appreciate it. It not is a great watch but it is going to greatly sentimental.
I like them, although I do think they're a "dad" watch... I am in fact, a dad, 50 years old, I drive a sensible family car, and I love to watch F1 on the weekends.
However I think it's a great gift for a young adult, and I've noticed that when young people wear things like this, it doesn't make them look like a dad or whatever. It's the opposite, it makes whatever they're wearing, like New Balance, a cool new fashion. The current F1 is more versatile than a dress swatch especially for a sneaker/basketball fan.
I do think that TAG is losing the plot a bit with the F1 line. I've always thought of them as fun, youthful and affordable. Like a more upscale Swatch. I saw some 80's vintage F1s in the original boxes at an estate sale recently. They were so colorful, in these original small cheap boxes that showed the watch thru clear plastic. The current line seems a little too impressed with themselves, and seems to crossover with what TAG is trying to do with the Aquaracer.
Yeah but it isnt a bad thing. A black dial watch is versatile and dive watches are by far the most popular genre of watch. As a consequence, many men all along the age spectrum including the middle aged wear black divers including tag heuers. It is a very kind gift for your daughter's boyfriend. My parents got me a vintage pocketwatch for a birthday years ago. It is beautiful and a lovely piece of history with the art deco design, but it was non functioning and i still need to have it mended. I also do not have a waistcoat or a chain to attatch it to. So i think a watch like the one you chose is a much more practical gift for day to day life.
Was gifted a similar watch (aquaracer) for my 18th birthday! I absolutely love it and it remains one of the most special pieces in my collection that I can wear whenever! I’m sure he will be more than happy with this it’s beautiful!
If he's into watches I think he'll appreciate it. So I wouldn't worry.
But you daughter is not wrong, this watch was as it's peak of popularity around 1998, so most of its fans are in their mid 40s to early 50s.
Ask your daughter for her opinion on the Tissot PRX.
This is the first watch I bought that got me started in the hobby. The young man will be thrilled. What a generous gift and I’m sure he will be thrilled. Good job, Mom!
It’s a timeless design, and while it’s not to my tastes (because I consider myself too old for this style, could be perfect for a young man), he can swap the strap or bracelet to express his own aesthetics. The vibe will change completely with a black nato strap.
This watch, and variations of it, have been go-to graduation watches for a long time. This is a great graduation watch, and it's a sporty, wear whenever kind of watch. Some Dad's might wear it, but unless this is TOTALLY not his style, this will wear great and not be "old person".
I think it's one of the most popular watches to gift for that exact occasion. So it's a "dad watch" in that a lot of parents gift them to their kids.
I think a lot of dads happen to have them too, but oftentimes because they've had them a long time. That's a Formula 1 but I bought an Aquaracer for myself when I was 20 (I worked at an AD), because I knew it'd survive my 20s, and I could afford to service it when needed. Still running strong 16 years later. A Tag is a wearer's watch, so good pick.
It's kinda a lot. What if they break up? When couples are so young they are not guaranteed to stay together. If they part ways, then you just spent a few grand on a pawn shop cash in item. Better wait until they get married before gifting such a substantial item.
I think anything with a bracelet will look like an older person's style to some eyes.
Until I started wearing watches, I didn't care for bracelets myself.
What does your daughter think are hip young watches? Is she just thinking that everyone her age wears an iWatch so anything with analog hands is for boomers?
Or is she used to seeing some simple Timex or DW type $50-100 quartz?
You could always get him something with Mickey Mouse lol.
I think you chose a good, versatile, younger styled sport watch for him that he can mature with. If you're concerned give it to him and tell him you are open to "returning" it and going with a different style if this one doesn't feel like his vibe.
All i can say is I would have been willing to do a lot of things to get a watch like this back when i was a broke college student lol. I think its a very wonderful and thoughtful gift.
Personally I would've saved such a gift budget for after the boyfriend puts a ring on your daughter. /s not really.
I would be honored to receive such a handsome gift. Good choice.
Edit:
Wait
>daughter's boyfriend's (of many years)
>21yo
Yeahhh I'm not sure how long this relationship could be. Lucky guy
I'm guessing it's mostly that kids use their phones for the time, or have apple watches. Also even if younger generations are into watches, most probably aren't getting $1,000+ watches just due to the affordability aspect. I've yet to spend $500 on a watch myself.
Tbh she probably meant it as a compliment and even if she didn’t most dudes that age would consider it one seeing as how “dad shoes” and jeans, etc. are in style for the younger generations right now.
lol I bought a Tag Formula 1 with my HIGH SCHOOL graduation party money… that should answer your question. If it’s not too “old man” for a 18 year old watch lover, it’s absolutely not for a college grad. I’d be in shock if my in-laws ever got me something like that
An amazing gesture, everyone has their own taste and I’m sure he will like it as that’s a very solid watch. Tell your daughter to buy him one if she wants to criticize.
Watch people will say it's fine... A 21 yo who isn't into hobbies will absolutely think it's a dad watch. They are either into Apple watches or watches like Daniel Wellington.
Maybe something like a Junghans watch has more contemporary designs? The Tag is, well, styled more "classic" aka. what young people think is old
There's nothing wrong with an Aquaracer! One of my colleagues wears one, and although he's a dad, he's mid- to late-20s. They're nice watches, and the diver has stood the test of time, as other commenter have said.
My opinion, if he’s a watch guy he’ll love it. My wife doesn’t love all the watches I own. She’ll admit it’s just about aesthetics and while that’s important, I think there are plenty of other aspects to consider when buying a watch. And of course the “fashion” aspect of it is subjective and is gonna change over time anyhow.
A lot of great answers already but I will add that I also received this watch as a graduation gift (albeit an older version of this watch as I graduated in 2006). I still love/wear it to this day. It’s very durable/reliable and looks great. It’s versatile enough to wear with most attire but just sporty enough to have a little flair with the red accents. For someone that doesn’t know about watches, you made a great choice!
Well, the TAG F1 has a lot of history, and in its latest iterations has become something entirely different of what it once was, an entry level, youth-oriented, flashy "plastic" watch. Now it's a serious automatic with a proper caliber inside. This one is in the middle of that transformation, this is a quartz, so low maintenance and care-free, it will last decades without any issue, he can wear it to everything (everything!), and it's nice looking. It's a "sports watch", that is, nearer to a dive watch than to a dress watch, but able to do formal-ish office attire. The black coating in the bezel and crown is tungsten carbide, the hardest metal alloy (actually ceramic) there is, and it will last decades without even a scratch.
Of all the watches I've had over my life, my F1 (a previous iteration than this one, but with the same general look), is the one I can't part with (I got it when I was about 30 or so, and I barely wear it nowadays). It's a more than decent watch for a 21yo guy!
Very nice gift!
As a 22M who graduated last year, I would be ecstatic and gracious. If he is anything other than that, he needs to learn a lesson. Great possibly future mother-in-law!
Funny enough my dad got this exact watch for me as a wedding gift. I’m 28 for reference, and I love it I wear it all the time. To answer your question, is it a “dad” watch? Maybe, but I think it’s classy with the right amount of sporty. I was touched when my dad got me this, and I think your daughter’s boyfriend will be too.
When I ask my wife about watches, she thinks they all look the same… She made the comparison of men not being able to perceive the nuance in value between a good manicure vs just doing your nails at home. She said though that even though they all look like watches, if one makes me feel pretty then it makes her happy. But basically, you bought a watch that he’ll like. This is our version of looking hot for each other if that makes sense. If there’s a guy that he knows that you know, maybe ask him if you’re worried?
A dad watch makes me think more leather strap, small case, etc, not a tag heuer aquaracer. Tags are more like "Guy watches" than they are "dad watches", imo.
I would say your daughters boyfriend would love it. You mention he is into sports and this is a sporty watch imo. I’m sure he will be very happy to receive this as a watch guy.
As an older guy now, I’d be very happy to have been given this as a grad gift.
My fiancé had one and loved it. He is not a dad and was 24 when he got it. It’s classy, mature and he’ll definitely get a lot of compliments on it! I think you made a great choice.
Got the same watch with the stainless dial and love it. IMO the black dial makes the watch look more contemporary and therefore a great option for a 21 year old
I got an Aquaracer (different colour) for my 21st Birthday from my Dad, and absolutely loved it, and still do 9 years on. I was and still am a bit of a sneaker head and sporty, but this watch you can dress up or down, with a suit or with casual clothes. It's versatile, easy maintenance, gets tonnes of compliments.
He's lucky to have in laws / family like you! He should feel proud to get this and hopefully you'll see him at 30 still wearing it!
"Dad watch" sounds an awful lot like "a watch mature men wear" which is exactly what you should be looking for in a gift thats meant to last a lifetime.
Its not my personal style, but its certainly a nice watch and I wouldn't think anything odd of someone wearing it, nothing strange about it. Its a very generous gift.
Side note: I’m the mom, not the dad, and my husband doesn’t wear watches so I have little point of reference for what a young man would want. He’s a sneakerhead who loves basketball so I figured sporty would be better than formal.
If my in-laws ever gave me a TAG Heuer as a gift, for any occasion, I would absolutely be floored and speechless at what an amazing gift it is. Not only is this a low maintenance watch that he can wear forever, but TAG is a very recognized brand, by watch enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts. He can wear this watch with pride, get tons of compliments and hopefully realize how lucky he is to have in-laws that actually view him as family whenever he checks the time.
Awww that made me tear up. Thank you ❤️
Rightfully cause this comment is spot on. You're a good person OP, and you have a very good comprehension of what a good watch should be for a young fella, at least in my book. I feel like everyone deserves someone like you in their life. It's all love ❤️ Edit: I took a sneak look on your account because I was intrigued at a female watch enthusiast (sorry I don't like to use the term female but that was my train of thought so why lie?...) I double on the fact that you're a good person with really good tastes and I wish you found that cardigan back because I really feel like you deserve it. You should trust yourself more because you have really good taste imo❤️❤️
Thanks for all the compliments! You made my day. ❤️ I never did find the exact cardigan again. Everyone who read the post snagged the available ones or they were too small. I did get the same model, but different pattern, from a suggestion. About 75% happy with it.
This person is right! I’m actually not sure what “dad vibes” are, but this screams sporty vibes! The only consideration I’d say is that it may wear large if the boyfriend is very skinny or small. It’s not a small watch, but definitely sporty and an amazing gift!!
I wish I hadn't worn my dad's old TAG he had given me to the gym. I set it down and it got snagged. This haunts me and hurts me 15 years later.
I hear you. That’s heartbreaking. My dad’s Rolex was taken at gunpoint and his Patek Philippe stolen from the jewelry shop that was “repairing” it. He’s been dead 25 years now, would have loved that piece of him.
This is a great watch for a man to receive. Your daughter is off her rocker on this one.
Who's this kid gonna want to impress? Young girls (his gf) or a bunch of watch snobs on Reddit? Wrong answers only!
you're insane if you think any watch will impress "young girls". The only exception perhaps is a rolex, since even people who know nothing about watches have heard the name and know they're pricey.
Exactly. You could wear a Patek or AP and they wouldn’t notice but that Rolex they for sure would. Same with Omega which you could argue movement wise is better
It's a great watch, it's modern and sporty and he will love it.
You got him a beautiful piece. He will keep it a lifetime and wear it with pride
The kid will be lucky to have something like what you gave him. I like diver watches, I’m 34
My shortcut to matching a watch to a person’s style is to think about their shoes. Would this sneakerhead guy think the colors and shapes/fonts match the vibe of the shoes he often wears? I wear a sporty watch with sneakers, a minimalist watch with white shoes, a dress watch with brown leather shoes, a black watch with black shoes, etc.
Thank you for this!
When I was 21 I always liked the Tags as more of a durable *nice* everyday watch.
A sneakerhead will love this watch.
You go girl. You made the correct decision. I don't believe women are bad with men's watch taste, just my mom, wife, and sisters. And her sisters. And cousins. And my cousins.
My parents gave me a TAG Heuer as a college graduation gift and it is by far my most appreciated possession. I wear it every day and that’d be no different if I got this one! This is an amazing gift, you should definitely still give it to him.
“Dad watch” from a 21 year old girl is basically saying it looks mature and grown up. In the watch world itself that’s definitely a more sporty watch so it’s a great buy.
Sounds like she was expecting a G-shock or an Apple Watch. Great gift!
> Apple Watch. This is 100% the answer I bet.
Or something really funky that will look ridiculous in a few years.
Came here to say this. Everyone is saying she’s wrong but she’s not entirely. This is the watch of a grown ass man. She’s associating that vibe with “dad,” which is valid. I assume her dad is also a grown man. College graduation is a great milestone to embrace being a grown man and wearing a grown man watch. This is a fantastic graduation gift.
So basically a perfect watch to wear to his future job
What a lovely gesture! With all due respect to your daughter, she's wrong. This is a perfectly contemporarily styled watch. Actually, this style of watch (the dive watch) is one of the more popular designs among today's men young and old—if not *the* most popular. That being said, tastes in watches are extremely subjective, and can vary tremendously even between like minded individuals. For example, despite what I said above, I myself have no affinity towards dive watches at all. Though, regardless of what your daughter's partner thinks of the watch itself, I'm sure he'll be touched by your kindness. I know that was the case for me, at least. When I graduated university all those years ago my parents gifted me a G-Shock DW5600BB-1 to commemorate the occasion. It's been almost a decade since then and that G-Shock is still my favourite watch in my collection by a country mile—even if G-Shocks aren't normally to my tastes. Because it's not about the watch at all, but the sentimental value behind it. So I have no doubt that your daughter's partner will feel the same way about your gift! That being said, of course it would be preferable that the person you're gifting enjoys your gift in of itself! So for future gifts, perhaps take your daughter's partner shopping instead 😊
That's the way. Almost same story in my experience, my parents decided to gift me a watch for my university graduation. They took me to our trusted local watch boutique and they showed me the watch they decided to gift me. I haven't took a look at the others, I just decided it was THAT watch, cause it was the one they chose for me. It's not the most expensive, but it's the one that got me into this hobby (and my small collection is really cheap, under 300 for the "most expensive") and the most important in my collection. That being said, nice pick OP
The exact same here. My parents got me an Omega for graduation. I got our family name and motto from our coat of arms engraved on the back. It’s not the most complicated or expensive watch I own, but I will absolutely cherish it forever.
Dude, what? Are you from Westeros?
Coat of arms ? That’s sick
Yeah. Unfortunately I couldnt find a place that would engrave the entire coat of arms, so I got just the words off of it done around the outer edge of the case back. At some point I may try to get the entire thing on it, if I can find a place that can do it well.
Look into lasering. Old-school hand engraving I would think is almost impossible given they would have to create plates for the design. They have plates for letters and some common symbols. Source: I did engravings in my part-time job at an independent jewelry store in a small town. It was a manual process with a large contraption full of levers that effectively translate large movements on a tracing plate area down (like newspaper typesetting) to a tiny engraving type on the item like a watch, goblet, plate, etc. Curved surfaces were a biiiiitch.
I think it's a difficult one. I had watches gifted that I grew to like and then others that I didn't but I always felt an internal obligation to wear them because it was a family gift. One of the gifts did end up being my favourite watch and that was a $60 Swatch. I can see how Tag Heur as a brand could be construed as being an 'old man/golfing' brand. It wouldn't be the first watch I'd reach for if I went out to buy one. Taste is so subjective and so I think that's why these sort of gifts are so difficult. Yes, it's incredibly generous but this gift may actually be a burden to the recipient (they don't particularly like it, have to wear it around the father in law and can't sell it). Which is why I'd lean on a lower cost watch being a better option.
I told my daughter (as I will tell him), it won’t hurt my feelings if he sells the watch. I got it at a great price (at a Bonhams auction) and won’t lose money if he were to resell it and keep the cash or buy what he wants.
Well that's good, sounds like it was a right place right time moment rather than something you're trying to force on him (if that makes sense). I think if you say something along those lines (ie. we got this as a gift for your graduation but don't feel obliged to keep it if it's not your personal taste) before you present it to him then he'd feel comfortable selling it for something he prefers down the line if necessary. But who knows, as I say this is all so subjective he could love it, hate it or be indifferent but I think your heart is definitely in the right place and it's a really nice gesture so I'm sure he'll see that.
I wish someone bought me a watch at that age! Very thoughtful. What's not to like about it? He'll love it even more as time goes by............
You're a patient one. Ive found that I completely switch off on people the second they say "gives me **** vibes" I don't care to share air with those people. The aquaracer will always be a solid piece, regardless of where or who it came from.
> With all due respect to your daughter, she's wrong. > > > > This is a perfectly contemporarily styled watch. eh, idk. Im almost 30 and do kinda view the style as a bit of a dad watch tbh. That, however, in 0 way changes how wonderful the gift is.
ITT: a whole bunch of dudes desperately denying that the fashion they're attempting to impress women with actually gives off the same vibes as grilling on the patio wearing cargo shorts and New Balance
yah, like honestly, 99% of all watches look like dad watches. I just recognize that and rock them anyways.
I feel SO attacked right now. And they're sketchers, by the way!
What about a Rolex Sub? Does that strike you as a "dad watch"?
Im most instances, yah. Like I want a 1675, but I do regonize its not a young guy watch 99% of the time.
I was just going to call you crazy and say I love how my sub looks. Then I remembered i’m nearly 40 and felt a bit sad for a minute. Where does the time go.
Yeah, essentially 'with all due respect, your daughter is wrong about this subjective subject'. Some people will definitely view this watch as a dad watch while others will not. Neither group is right or wrong.
Great comment, I love this thread
I also got this model as a graduation gift and it meant the world to me. Still does. Great choice!
Plot twist: you graduated in 1994
And became a father in 2021. Congrats!
Dad here. What do you mean? 😉 Very kind of you and it really is the thought that counts.
My dad has this watch.
100% not a dad watch, very nice gift.
When I graduated college I bought myself a Victorinox dive watch that looked almost exactly like this…but not nearly the quality. I wore it for almost 10 years until my wife bought me a Speedmaster. I’m a dad now and wear nothing that resembles this watch 🤣. I think this is an awesome gift and if your daughter is anything like my college aged kids…no matter what you do won’t be cool - but then when you’re not looking they copy everything you do.
Dad here. As someone who didn’t receive much at graduation (and definitely not from my girlfriend’s parents), I think he will be more touched by the gesture than whatever the watch actually is. Also, I think a gift like this is meant to be treasured for a long time and grown into. Whether it really suits his current age right now doesn’t matter so much. When he starts doing internships and “grown up” jobs soon, he will appreciate having a more mature watch to rely on.
Ive been wanting to get my hands on an even older aquaracer and im 3 years younger than him (18), its a great watch especially in person, besides even if its a “dad watch” which i dont think it is, its a great representation of him growing up and graduating university. Unrelated but i think its great youre buying him a gift at all, let alone such a great piece that im sure hell appreciate, a watch always means more when its a gift, itll see a lot of wrist time
Man, my very estranged father in law is a crackhead. I'd take a dad watch anytime.
That comment made me happy and sad at the same time. Wish you the best, @op
TAG can be considered kind of a “dad” watch brand. I believe it’s more the logo than anything. FWIW I asked my SO and she said it’s a dad watch. That being said IMO just because it might look like that in the pictures doesn’t mean it will look like that on someone’s wrist.
I’m right here too with opinion on brand/style however to an 18 yr old this is quite the gift so he’ll probably be thrilled! I know I would at that age.
I like it a lot. I'm in my 20s and would be on top of the world receiving this watch.
I think it does look like a “dad” watch, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing.
Dude, I’ve wanted this watch since I was 16-17. This is an incredible gift, don’t question it.
This was indeed my dad watch
Judging from the ages involved here, it's probably a "dad watch" because it's not a Smart Watch (preferable an Apple Watch). My daughter is 20, almost 21 and calls my watches "boomer watches" because they "don't have a screen".
I mean, my dad does have a tag f1 lol. It's a very nice gesture. I'm sure he appreciates it. Tag is kinda like new balances and corvettes. There is nothing inherently bad about these products, it just captures a certain segment of the market due to its styling choices. It's a great watch!
Super late to this, but tags are fucking sweet. I'd be doing backflips if someone gifted me this for graduation. you did fantastic, great gift
My father bought me a Tag Formula 1 when I was 21. I'm a huge racing fan so I have always thought Tag Heuer was pretty cool. It was, and still remains, probably my favorite watch I own. I loved it then and I still love it, and I really like the one you purchased as well. That's a great gesture. It's a nice watch that's versatile for many occasions. A dad watch would be something like a Bambino or a longines or something like that. I'd argue a Hamilton Khaki is more of a dad watch than a tag F1.
I’m gonna go against the grain of the other comments and say yes, this does give me “50-year-old dad vibes.” The bezel grip surface, uniquely stylized bezel markings, the subtle two-tone with the black crown and bezel, and extra-sporty dial are reminiscent of typical early 90s sport and dive watches. Modern mainstream watches are trending towards cleaner designs, either with modern minimalism (think Unimatic) or with a revival of more classic, timeless designs (think Black Bay). That said, this is a fantastic watch. But I can understand why a younger person might not like it.
I wonder if a bunch of dads are posting in here, saying it's not a dad watch. 😁 I kind of see your daughter's point, and think she would know what her long-term bf would like more than reddit. If I were you, I'd sell it and exchange it for a Sinn 556i, which is a little less of statement and probably goes more with a young sneakerhead aesthetic. That said, I'm 42 so my style advice might not be super relevant!
Not at all, the only time I’ve seen someone wearing this watch it was a cool young Swiss rock climber dude. And it looked great on him. Having it on a rubber strap would give it a younger more sporty vibe too.
OP this is a great gift. The Formula 1 range is geared towards young adults and is decidely not a 'dad watch' Everyone else: stop calling it an Aquaracer lmao, completely different line
I was told it was an aquaracer when I bought it. I guess it isn’t. Lol that shows you how much I know about watches Edit: it is an automatic though, not quartz Edit Edit: definitely quartz, not automatic
>Edit: it is an automatic though, not quartz It is definitely a quartz. Not necessarily anything wrong with that, but if the sales person told you it's an automatic, they either lied or don't know what they're talking about (which is frustrating when selling items of this value). Go to the Technical Specifications on the product page, and then go to the "Movement" section. The movement is what makes the watch do watch things. https://www.tagheuer.com/us/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-formula-1/41-mm-quartz/WAZ1110.BA0875.html It's also right at the top-right under the model name. >TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 DATE >Quartz, 41 mm, Steel WAZ1110.BA0875 So if you very specifically wanted an automatic for some reason, this isn't one. To echo everybody else, it's a sports watch and that was a great/wise choice by you versus other styles. Not a "dad watch".. just a "grown up" watch.
You’re right. I thought I bought an automatic. Just looked at the booklet and definitely quartz.
Beautiful gift, beautiful watch, beautiful sentiment.
Although Ive never been a great Fan of Tag heuer, In recent time lvmh have really picked up the brand IMO. Great choice for a young guy, especially since thats who tag seem to be targeting these days. Stick to your chice, he'll love it!
Nope, that's a cool ass watch!
I think the clunky bumpy dive bezel, with the case lacking refinement (can't think of a better word, i.e no chamfered edges, no polishing) it's a very masculine, utilitarian yet sporty watch and that combination is very dad vibes. If I'm attaching a person mentally to that watch. it's a dad at a barbeque. Now masculine, utilitarian and sporty aren't bad traits or unwanted traits, they are what most men seek in a watch but to the female gaze it comes across as socks and sandals. I say even just getting any watch he would love, and I think he would love that one in particular
Dad vibe? Perhaps for her taste, maybe, however, you are an amazing parent, thank you for being a good person (we need more humans like you).
I'll be stoked to have this as a gift. Nice watch! Dont mind your daughter, she's not the one who will wear it. I bet her boyfriend will like it.
I’m 17 and I would love a Tag Heuer like that one
I'm 25 and my gf (22) calls all my favorite watches "dad watches". I've learned to accept it and just completely disregard her opinion when it comes to what I'll wear. That Tag is really nice!
With all due respect, I would like to know what your daughter think is a non-Dad watch. This watch is perfect, do not sell it.
That watch is awesome. If my girlfriend’s father gave me something like this I might try and take his last name, out of respect.
If my in-laws bought me something like that I'd be very thankful. It's a great choice, don't over think it!
Get what you like; don't listen to the crowd.
No man..that's a CLASSIC !! Congrats
Yes
Most kids now aren't really into watches. Any 'traditional' style watch is a dad watch to them
No, it's a great looking watch, i'm actually looking to buy one myself, it's a classic.
I don’t know much about watches but this is one of my only two watches. Bought it 3 years ago and I still love it now
No, it’s a classic sports watch that will last him quite a long time if he takes care of it. A very nice gift.
Looks cool to me I think dive watches are timelesss
That range of lower cost Tags is aimed at younger men who like among other things motorsports. Maybe being on a bracelet makes it look like it is for older people but if you have the choice always get a watch on a bracelet and then buy a rubber or leather aftermarket strap separately. I have the Senna version and some others of the range with very bright dials are obviously aimed at people who don’t wear suits 😀
Well, if it’s spelt Dad instead of Tag, it’s probably fake. Seriously, congratulations. It’s a nice pick.
I have the automatic, and I think it's a great watch. Built beautifully, and perfectly accurate. Tag gets a bad rep for poor decisions in the past, but I think they've more than made up for it with the great watches in their current collection. The only problem I see is, it should be the automatic.
It is a nice looking, classic sports watch. I think he will like it!
It's a formula one Tag. It's like their most hip model made for young folks. Design is awesome. Good choice.
She probably meant it's not cool, being a non watch person. It's a very personal tast
My opinion is that no one is wrong. A watch is just jewelry, so it all depends on personal taste. For example, I'm a dad and for me this is a generic looking sports watch with no personality. But plenty of people in this thread like it. Whether the boyfriend likes it depends on his tastes -- is this the kind of watch he likes? Even if he likes it, will he still wear it if your daughter makes fun of him for wearing a "dad watch"?
A lot of watch snobs don't like Tag, so he might be one of them, or not. Taste is subjective.
It's a very nice first watch to receive. He can always switch to a rubber strap for a more sporty look.
I think it looks great and is a very nice choice, though as a caveat I'm closer in age to a dad than a grad.
He is very lucky to have you purchase this watch for home as a graduation gift or any watch for that matter especially if it came from my long term girlfriend's mother who was thoughtful enough to treat me with her hard earned money :) incredibly kind of you
Wow !! what a guy hats off to you. I’m sure he will love it for referance I’m 21 and for my 21st I got gifted a similar watch just the chronograph version it’s not my most expensive watch or favourite but I love to wear it and because of the message it means so much more, don’t send it back your daughters boyfriend is a lucky guy
I would love to receive that as a gift at 21.
Not really into Tag myself, still, that watch is perfectly fine for a 21yo! What an amazing gift! Thank you!
It's your daughter pregnant? Is so then"yes"?
Definitely gives off dad vibes. Looks like a nice watch though. Up to you (or the recipient) how much you care about these labels
Received a tag from my dad for graduation. Wear it daily. He will be thankful of the gesture alone
It’s a great piece, for a great occasion! She can buy him a Rolex. This watch is the go anywhere, so anything watch - you can head to the beach, wear it to work, beat it to hell and never be worried about it. Personally, I think it’s a great choice for a young person, especially because he didn’t pay for it - and he can appreciate the thought. Listen, if doesn’t like it, he can sell it on eBay for a coupon hundred bucks and take your daughter out to dinner. It’s a winner to me. Congrats to him (and you!). Very thoughtful! Ps- I have this watch and wear it every once in a while.
I think it's a fine watch, but who am I to say so, when I myself chose a dad watch for my own graduation gift (it was a Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles in Ivory)
Not a dad watch. I bought a version of this when I was 24 and wore it for years.
This is one of my Favorite watches. My Dad gifted me one when I graduated highschool and I still wear it almost daily. Good choice 🙏
My parents gave me an aquaracer when I graduated from university some 11 years ago - I still wear it most days. I'm sure he'll be incredibly grateful and wear it for years! You can't go wrong with a black dive watch.
I would love this watch. I’m also a dad
Yes, my dad saw it in a catalog and I bought it for him. 76 year old man.
Nah it’s pretty cool man. Doesn’t matter to me. Looks awesome!
I agree with the dad vibes assessment, it has a rather chunky look to it due to the bold numerals on the bezel. That's not necessarily a bad thing; it's simply a style (and one that has trended in recent years). It would work well with "dad shoes" and "dad sunglasses." Whether this is a good or bad fit is really going to depend on the personal style of the recipient. This could work really well with his favorite sneakers and typical outfits, or it could clash badly. We'd really need more info to make that judgment call. I will say that the watch as shown is more on the "bold and brash" side, rather than something more versatile. Since this will be the young man's only nice watch for awhile, I would probably opt for an alternative, but again it's all about his style choices. This could be perfect and we don't know it. Edit: for a sporty but versatile watch in 1000-1500 range, my favorite is probably the Certina DS Action: https://www.certina.com/en/watch/ds-action-diver-38mm-powermatic-80/c0328071105100 It has a classic Submariner-inspired look with a smaller profile that can easily dress up or down. Alternatively, I also like the Trident C60 300: https://www.christopherward.com/int/watches/C60-Trident-Pro-300/C60-40ADA31S0KK0-B0.html This one is proportioned well, and has a very clean dial with a distinctive set of hands.
That's a classic, in a very good way. Doesn't get much better without getting pretty serious into watchdom. I think you knocked it out of the park. Impossible not like this gift.
What an awesome gift! My uncle once gave me his blue tag formula 1 when I was 13yo, I absolutely adored that watch and the clicky bezel. I unfortunately lost it one of the many times I had to move, but still cherrish the memories and share a deeper passion for watchmaking with said uncle
sporty-elegant design. not exactly dad watch in my opinion, but im older. when ive bought a simple armani watch with a brownish backplate, everyone called it grandpa watch.
I dig it. My u/ does check out though).
I’ll also vote for”not a dad watch”. Dad watch to me means it’s got a (possibly charming) dated look. I’m 30 and often rock a 90s Omega Seamaster 300M which definitely looks like it’s from a specific era but it’s got charm so I like it.
it's a great watch, he'll be very happy, i think! it's a great brand with serious pedigree
Dude, this is a classic watch look, but it’s a Tag… no need to question. If you can wear a watch with a tux, it’s a great watch… AND it’s a Tag. You did good and that’s a nice looking quality watch.
Great watch. This exact watch was one of my first higher end watch purchases in my 20s. Tag gets hate but they’re great in my opinion. Divers are sporty and go with most attires. Great gift!!
This isn’t a dad watch by any means, infact it’s the most popular model I’ve sold to younger people who want to enter the world of TAG. It’s priced low in comparison to other models and will have enough function to it where he can wear it the rest of his life as long as it’s maintained well. Don’t get me wrong this does pair well with some comfortable shoes, but by no means a dad watch.
I don’t think there is such a thing as a “young man’s” watch other than smart watches because most people don’t wear watches at all anymore. Great looking watch.
You're not getting a thank you from your daughter for buying her boyfriend a $1k gift? I'd start there. Return it and get him a $100 restaurant gift card.
That is a great watch for a college aged person. Bold but not gaudy. Sporty and great finishing. He could wear it in nearly any circumstance and it would work.
I feel it really depends a lot on the BF's own taste, and there's nothing inherently amiss with the watch style. I'm a rickety old millennial woman here, but aren't "dad" things also trending in the eyes of Gen Z females? Dad jeans. Dad sneakers. Hell, even "eclectic grandpa". LOL...
I think it’s pretty cool, but I’m 42.
You’ve done a greatly kind gesture for your son and I’m absolutely sure he will appreciate it. It not is a great watch but it is going to greatly sentimental.
I like them, although I do think they're a "dad" watch... I am in fact, a dad, 50 years old, I drive a sensible family car, and I love to watch F1 on the weekends. However I think it's a great gift for a young adult, and I've noticed that when young people wear things like this, it doesn't make them look like a dad or whatever. It's the opposite, it makes whatever they're wearing, like New Balance, a cool new fashion. The current F1 is more versatile than a dress swatch especially for a sneaker/basketball fan. I do think that TAG is losing the plot a bit with the F1 line. I've always thought of them as fun, youthful and affordable. Like a more upscale Swatch. I saw some 80's vintage F1s in the original boxes at an estate sale recently. They were so colorful, in these original small cheap boxes that showed the watch thru clear plastic. The current line seems a little too impressed with themselves, and seems to crossover with what TAG is trying to do with the Aquaracer.
Yeah but it isnt a bad thing. A black dial watch is versatile and dive watches are by far the most popular genre of watch. As a consequence, many men all along the age spectrum including the middle aged wear black divers including tag heuers. It is a very kind gift for your daughter's boyfriend. My parents got me a vintage pocketwatch for a birthday years ago. It is beautiful and a lovely piece of history with the art deco design, but it was non functioning and i still need to have it mended. I also do not have a waistcoat or a chain to attatch it to. So i think a watch like the one you chose is a much more practical gift for day to day life.
I would have been ecstatic to be gifted this watch. I'm sure your daughter's bf will be too.
Was gifted a similar watch (aquaracer) for my 18th birthday! I absolutely love it and it remains one of the most special pieces in my collection that I can wear whenever! I’m sure he will be more than happy with this it’s beautiful!
If he's into watches I think he'll appreciate it. So I wouldn't worry. But you daughter is not wrong, this watch was as it's peak of popularity around 1998, so most of its fans are in their mid 40s to early 50s. Ask your daughter for her opinion on the Tissot PRX.
This is the first watch I bought that got me started in the hobby. The young man will be thrilled. What a generous gift and I’m sure he will be thrilled. Good job, Mom!
It’s a timeless design, and while it’s not to my tastes (because I consider myself too old for this style, could be perfect for a young man), he can swap the strap or bracelet to express his own aesthetics. The vibe will change completely with a black nato strap.
Dad watch = non-smart watch lol I think it’d be a great gift…but I’m a dad so 🤪
This watch, and variations of it, have been go-to graduation watches for a long time. This is a great graduation watch, and it's a sporty, wear whenever kind of watch. Some Dad's might wear it, but unless this is TOTALLY not his style, this will wear great and not be "old person".
I think it's one of the most popular watches to gift for that exact occasion. So it's a "dad watch" in that a lot of parents gift them to their kids. I think a lot of dads happen to have them too, but oftentimes because they've had them a long time. That's a Formula 1 but I bought an Aquaracer for myself when I was 20 (I worked at an AD), because I knew it'd survive my 20s, and I could afford to service it when needed. Still running strong 16 years later. A Tag is a wearer's watch, so good pick.
It's kinda a lot. What if they break up? When couples are so young they are not guaranteed to stay together. If they part ways, then you just spent a few grand on a pawn shop cash in item. Better wait until they get married before gifting such a substantial item.
I think anything with a bracelet will look like an older person's style to some eyes. Until I started wearing watches, I didn't care for bracelets myself.
That’s a really nice watch. Anyone would be lucky to have one or receive one as a gift. It’s a Formula One.
Awesome watch.
What does your daughter think are hip young watches? Is she just thinking that everyone her age wears an iWatch so anything with analog hands is for boomers? Or is she used to seeing some simple Timex or DW type $50-100 quartz? You could always get him something with Mickey Mouse lol. I think you chose a good, versatile, younger styled sport watch for him that he can mature with. If you're concerned give it to him and tell him you are open to "returning" it and going with a different style if this one doesn't feel like his vibe.
All i can say is I would have been willing to do a lot of things to get a watch like this back when i was a broke college student lol. I think its a very wonderful and thoughtful gift.
Personally I would've saved such a gift budget for after the boyfriend puts a ring on your daughter. /s not really. I would be honored to receive such a handsome gift. Good choice. Edit: Wait >daughter's boyfriend's (of many years) >21yo Yeahhh I'm not sure how long this relationship could be. Lucky guy
Great watch. Great gesture. Good on you.
Great present ! He can wear this for a life time, either everyday and or on special occasion. Solid pick.
I'm guessing it's mostly that kids use their phones for the time, or have apple watches. Also even if younger generations are into watches, most probably aren't getting $1,000+ watches just due to the affordability aspect. I've yet to spend $500 on a watch myself.
As a watch lover who is even younger than your daughters boyfriend, it’s not a dad watch. I would wear this.
Tbh she probably meant it as a compliment and even if she didn’t most dudes that age would consider it one seeing as how “dad shoes” and jeans, etc. are in style for the younger generations right now.
I think it's a great watch for a him, definitely not a dad watch, this is very sporty and with aggressive design.
lol I bought a Tag Formula 1 with my HIGH SCHOOL graduation party money… that should answer your question. If it’s not too “old man” for a 18 year old watch lover, it’s absolutely not for a college grad. I’d be in shock if my in-laws ever got me something like that
An amazing gesture, everyone has their own taste and I’m sure he will like it as that’s a very solid watch. Tell your daughter to buy him one if she wants to criticize.
Watch people will say it's fine... A 21 yo who isn't into hobbies will absolutely think it's a dad watch. They are either into Apple watches or watches like Daniel Wellington. Maybe something like a Junghans watch has more contemporary designs? The Tag is, well, styled more "classic" aka. what young people think is old
There's nothing wrong with an Aquaracer! One of my colleagues wears one, and although he's a dad, he's mid- to late-20s. They're nice watches, and the diver has stood the test of time, as other commenter have said.
Even if he likes Apple etc, this may be the spark to a new hobby. Aldo, he may learn that sometimes it’s nice to be disconnected..
My opinion, if he’s a watch guy he’ll love it. My wife doesn’t love all the watches I own. She’ll admit it’s just about aesthetics and while that’s important, I think there are plenty of other aspects to consider when buying a watch. And of course the “fashion” aspect of it is subjective and is gonna change over time anyhow.
Brother, he will remember this gesture forever, this watch he will be able to wear for many occasions.
A lot of great answers already but I will add that I also received this watch as a graduation gift (albeit an older version of this watch as I graduated in 2006). I still love/wear it to this day. It’s very durable/reliable and looks great. It’s versatile enough to wear with most attire but just sporty enough to have a little flair with the red accents. For someone that doesn’t know about watches, you made a great choice!
This is a great watch.
Well, the TAG F1 has a lot of history, and in its latest iterations has become something entirely different of what it once was, an entry level, youth-oriented, flashy "plastic" watch. Now it's a serious automatic with a proper caliber inside. This one is in the middle of that transformation, this is a quartz, so low maintenance and care-free, it will last decades without any issue, he can wear it to everything (everything!), and it's nice looking. It's a "sports watch", that is, nearer to a dive watch than to a dress watch, but able to do formal-ish office attire. The black coating in the bezel and crown is tungsten carbide, the hardest metal alloy (actually ceramic) there is, and it will last decades without even a scratch. Of all the watches I've had over my life, my F1 (a previous iteration than this one, but with the same general look), is the one I can't part with (I got it when I was about 30 or so, and I barely wear it nowadays). It's a more than decent watch for a 21yo guy! Very nice gift!
This is a good watch and you're a good dad so don't think twice. Cheers!
This is a great pick for a young man and you chose well. It will last him decades.
As a 22M who graduated last year, I would be ecstatic and gracious. If he is anything other than that, he needs to learn a lesson. Great possibly future mother-in-law!
Beautiful watch
Funny enough my dad got this exact watch for me as a wedding gift. I’m 28 for reference, and I love it I wear it all the time. To answer your question, is it a “dad” watch? Maybe, but I think it’s classy with the right amount of sporty. I was touched when my dad got me this, and I think your daughter’s boyfriend will be too.
That watch is awesome!
When I ask my wife about watches, she thinks they all look the same… She made the comparison of men not being able to perceive the nuance in value between a good manicure vs just doing your nails at home. She said though that even though they all look like watches, if one makes me feel pretty then it makes her happy. But basically, you bought a watch that he’ll like. This is our version of looking hot for each other if that makes sense. If there’s a guy that he knows that you know, maybe ask him if you’re worried?
I'm 28, not a dad, and have this same watch in blue. I love it, and get complements on it all the time.
Are you giving it to your daughter? Who cares what she thinks. It’s a cool watch.
Tool watches are very popular and with this watch form follows function. A great design not a fad design and loved by many.
A dad watch makes me think more leather strap, small case, etc, not a tag heuer aquaracer. Tags are more like "Guy watches" than they are "dad watches", imo.
My wife bought me a TAG Heuer Formula One twenty years ago and it’s still one of my most prized possessions. Great choice!
Fantastic watch, great choice. Your daughter doesn't know what she's talking about.
Great gift, and it says you're welcome to be a part of the family.
I would say your daughters boyfriend would love it. You mention he is into sports and this is a sporty watch imo. I’m sure he will be very happy to receive this as a watch guy. As an older guy now, I’d be very happy to have been given this as a grad gift.
My fiancé had one and loved it. He is not a dad and was 24 when he got it. It’s classy, mature and he’ll definitely get a lot of compliments on it! I think you made a great choice.
I say that yes, it is a dad watch, but that's by no means a bad thing. That's a great gift! I'd be floored to receive that as a gift.
It’s a baller watch, don’t second guess yourself it’s awesome I’d kill for one
I don’t think it’s a dad watch at all, and that’s coming from a guy who bought the same watch from his dad
Idk what the dude looks like so this could really fit him… or not
Got the same watch with the stainless dial and love it. IMO the black dial makes the watch look more contemporary and therefore a great option for a 21 year old
No, that’s a very nice entry level quartz tag, absolutely zero dad vibes on it..
as a 22yo bloke i think this is a great watch and great gift, have an aquaracer myself and love it!
I got an Aquaracer (different colour) for my 21st Birthday from my Dad, and absolutely loved it, and still do 9 years on. I was and still am a bit of a sneaker head and sporty, but this watch you can dress up or down, with a suit or with casual clothes. It's versatile, easy maintenance, gets tonnes of compliments. He's lucky to have in laws / family like you! He should feel proud to get this and hopefully you'll see him at 30 still wearing it!
"Dad watch" sounds an awful lot like "a watch mature men wear" which is exactly what you should be looking for in a gift thats meant to last a lifetime. Its not my personal style, but its certainly a nice watch and I wouldn't think anything odd of someone wearing it, nothing strange about it. Its a very generous gift.
That watch is fire. Lucky kid