In my opinion, every re-edition should be a redesign, and not just a clone. Think if FIAT issued a re-edition of their 500 model as an exact copy of the original model: it would be small, noisy, unconfortable.
A re-edition watch should have a vintage design, but use better materials (sapphire glass, high quality steel, better printed dial, automatic movement), and have a shape and size more suitable for these days. For sure this is more risky, you don't know if people will like it or if maybe they will start to appreciate it after a while.
I think that the CS311* was a great seller because most of the people love this kind of chronograph, in the vintage market the most valuable pieces are bicompax or tricompax mechanical chronos, of any brand. For example, vintage russian watches are extremely inexpensive, but for a strela chrono with calibre 3017 you will not pay less than 800 dollars.

 

In my eyes the 2004 Autavia was a very beautiful watch. But the case was much to large. My arms simply didn't fit to it.
Hopefully TAGHeuer could offer an Autavia for "office workers"....

 

Well part of the appeal for me of my CS3111 is its similarity to the original. I was also delighted by the price. I think used prices can be driven by a combination of factors, including mainstream appeal, not just appeal to collectors. The Carrera is possibly cheaper right now because it's a very small watch in comparison to what most people expect from a major watch purchase these days.

 

Interesting discussion, and these always have me torn or conflicted because in a lot of ways the re-edition makes sense. A first execution 2447 is at the top of my hunting list, and my personal grail, and I think the CS3111 does a great job of reincarnating it, BUT knowing that originals are out there, I don't think I could buy one. I would say the same would go for any watch, provided the original version was not astronomically priced today. Slightly off topic, but I will say the Omega Seamaster 300 master co-axial does a pretty damn good job of it though.

 

The Autavia was a fantastic re-edition, I am asked almost constantly if I can source one for keen customers. However one re-edition that should be avoided IMO is the Monaco CW2111, this early 00's attempt at a re-editon of the Monaco is one of the most returned pieces (After any calibre S) in store. The polycarbonate screen marked with the slightest touch, the pushers fell off and the case was as waterproof as toast ! Thankfully this was sorted out when the change to CAW reference came about.

 

You know that's so true I never get the CS2110 in for repair, only the CW2111, its almost as if they changed the manufacturing process, I know the case backs are different but the pushers are the same, maybe there is an internal difference, i will ask next time I visit HQ. If you have a few scratches I can recommend this but take it slow and steady.http://www.amazon.co.uk/3M-Headlight-Restoration-Discoloured-Headlights/dp/B0078IHJ1K i know I am probably preaching to the choir.

 

yeah pearl drops smokers toothpaste used to work, however they changed the recipe and it now uses a different abrasive so it just makes your watch minty !

 

I tried once with toothpaste, but nothing happened... I think that if you just rub it with your finger, it will not be enough.
Anyway, never seen a caries on my watch since then!

 

Very well put, I completely agree with you here. The First Omega in Space is another good example. You're finally able to get a straight lug speedmaster with a lot of the vintage traits with modern reliability, and a much lower price. But you don't often see someone dabbling in both the originals and the re-edition / vintage inspired pieces.