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I wouldn't really compare a Tag to a Invicta by a large margin. (or high end vs low end brands).
Of course, with 'brand' names, u pay for the brand name as well (part of your $$$ goes into the advertising/marketing for that brand
).
I was like you when I started my early collection. What makes a $3k watch so much better than a $1000 watch potentially using the same movement?
Here's my observation (and yes, I've owned at least 2 v7750 based Invictas in the past). I don't own any high-end unlike some others here but I've handled $10k Rolexes (credit to Rob of Toppers Jewellery who lets me play/try the high end watches in his store).
Invicta (and many others in this price range) use base v7750 movements (these movements are NOT modified nor decorated). Nor are these movements tested for accuracy. The v7750 movement also comes in different grades. The COSC easily the most expensive.
Secondly, if you inspect the dial/markers on high end brands, you'll find such details are highly polished and detailed and applied (not just painted on the dial). Pick up a Invicta and you'll find the dial is mainly made of plastic. The tiny finishing is what makes the high end watches more 'refined'. Then the amount of work the high end brands put into the movement also is another factor. Invicta doesn't even have a factory (but they've claimed in the past..lol).
Same goes for bracelet. Omega (imo) has one of the most made bracelets (I totally dislike the Rolex ones, considering the cost..my opinion).
Then you remove the strap from the case. Most low end brands don't finish the back case at all (I saw that on my Hamilton Jazzmaster where inside lugs were roughly brushed, but then it also didn't cost $2k).
Then you get real croc/gator straps on high end watches VS croc-GRAIN leather straps on low end.
Then lastly, you get prestige and heritage (which increases the perceived value of the watch). Some care for this and some don't. I know people that wear a $100 Seiko watch half their lives and they are totally okay with it.
In the end, it's up to you
. If you care for such things and brand names, save up. If you are okay with settling with a quality but low end brand, so be it !
My own grail is a Tag Carrera but after getting my SWI recently, I've pushed the grail hunt further out to next 2 years. SWI is barely a brand name outside WIS'ers but for me, the built quality/finishing/movement is right up there with my grail so I'm totally content with it...considering I paid $899 for the watch VS $2.5k for the Tag.
My opinion/experience from this hobby
. Your mileage may vary.