Any recommendations for vintage Heuer watches on a budget? Any upward resale value (not to say "investment") potential? What are your thoughts on the Heuer Camaro?
Relative to other Heuer models, especially those with column-wheel movements, Camaros are quite undervalued right now. There's one for sale on this forum now, in fantastic condition
Always liked the Camaro - I would think it will at least retain value moving forward (potentially modestly appreciate) given modern size, relative rarity, chronograph, classic dial colours + stainless steel case by a major brand recognized for their vintage sports watches from that era. I'd reference this: https://www.calibre11.com/ultimate-guide-heuer-camaro/ if you're interested.... One thing to note in that article is the "starburst" finish on parts of the case which is fairly easily scratched and dinged so often has been poorly polished or refinished.
From the early 80s divers I would choose the 980.023. It is quite unique with the crown at 4, and is very reminisicent of contemporary Squale divers and the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bund. Other than that, the chronographs from the 40s and 50s are probably undervalued relative to the big three from the 60s (Autavia, Carrera, Monaco). This is probably a lot to do with a lack of knowledge on these. Until recently, sites like OnTheDash have almost exclusively focused their efforts on the big three, but as the prices of those head out of reach I see that the earlier watches are starting to be discussed. Catalogue image courtesy OTD.
I'm a big Heuer fan, as well as an Omega fan. My favorite model is the Speed, but the Carrera is up there in terms of quality and almost there as far as history is concerned. There is, however, a department where Carreras have the edge over the Speedy: rarity. The reason I've wrote this is that I feel like, in this market, the Carreras are undervalued relative to the rising prices of the Speedmasters... You can get 3647s with Valjoux 92 based movement for around 4,5k$, which I believe is a steal. If you're looking for a lower even budget, go for either a Camaro (but they're not so cheap anymore), the 80's divers (you gotta like the style) or the older 1950's chronos. One thing I would suggest are also the "economic" versions of the carrera, like ref 3641, often mistaken for Pre-Carreras (they were just not badged Carrera and have cheaper movements/cases).
My recommendation would be to look at a Heuer 844-3 to 844-4 Automatic Diver. Probably $1200 -$1500 depending on condition, bracelet, etc. good value and you won't lose in the future. Very wearable with jeans and/or a dress shirt! Good luck.
All depends on your definition of "budget" but there are a lot of avenues you can go (many noted above). The one I'll add - the Carrera ref 73653, which was the last manually-wound Carrera before the 1153 was introduced in tandem with their development of the Cal 11 automatic chrono movement. The case shape isn't as "pure" as the 60's Carreras, but the dial is the same beautifully balanced design that drew so many to Heuer back in the day. These will run anywhere from 3.5-5.5 depending on condition and inclusion of the bracelet, but they're quite scarce. Maybe add it to the list! (From Google)
To add a little fuel to the fire () I think these are such a bargain with the GF bracelet that I had bought one before writing the post above. Had a chance to take some proper pictures and figured I would post them here. Such a great feel on the wrist...as Richard Crosthwaite recently wrote..."they look and wear far above their price point."
Big fan of the Camaro. Can find great deals out there for ones in great condition. The cushion case is eye-catching. It's 37mm, but because of the shape, wears a lot bigger. Personally a fan of the 9220T or 7220T.