Review (3/5): This is really impressive....But now I'm sad.
I've owned several Tag Heuer watches and I will forego the "for the money" comment; I'll keep the extra $4k in my savings and skip the Omega Sea Master. This watch is beautiful, and looks and feels high quality. I previously tried ordering the Sturling as an alternative: it arrived DOA and felt cheap...would avoid that, spend the extra and get this watch if you're considering.
UPDATE UGH: I actually REALLY loved this watch. However, I mistakenly took it camping, and took it into the swimming pool (and subsequent shower). On my way back to the campsite, I was VERY dismayed to find that moisture found it's way inside my watch. It's still running, but there are obvious moisture droplets inside the body (and the rice bag/time in the Sun trick failed). "Dismayed" doesn't begin to describe my level of disappointment. For some time, I have loved owning this watch. The band is solid, and feels quality. Ugh. Reckon I'll just get the TAG and be done with it.
Also fwiw, I think the company has gone cheap on the Sapphire as mine has the the "magnified" date, and that seems not to be included on the new models, which can be purchased for about $100 on Amazon (as opposed to the $300 that I purchased this watch for a year or so ago). I guess you get what you pay for, but I'm sad more than anything. I've loved owning this watch and always felt proud when I put it on my wrist, it still works, so I guess I'll keep wearing it until it completely fails. Anyway, if you're willing to pony-up, maybe you should go for a Tissot (nice midway between this and a Tag). Or just spend the grand and get the Tag or better, I've owned several and they are solid.