TAG Heuer Aquaracer Collection, which is among the first alternatives to come to mind within the entry and mid-range dive watches since the first day of its introduction, was the guest of our Hands On corner with the Ref. WAY201B.BA0927 model that attracts attention with its blue dial inspired by the oceans and sporty rubber strap.
TAG Heuer is a name that is commonly associated with motorsports-inspired models. But when we look at the brand’s recent and current product groups, we also see a number of stylish and successful dive watches. Of course, the first model family that comes to mind is the Aquaracer Collection, which stands out with its wide variety of model alternatives. I am not saying a wide variety just for the sake of conversation as there are 142 different Aquaracer Collection variants available at the brand’s official web site at the moment.
The model I chose for the review, Ref. WAY201B.BA0927, is one of the first models that comes to mind when you think about the Aquaracer Collection.
The model comes in a stainless steel case measuring 43mm in diameter. Distinguished by the thick sporty lug design which highlights the model’s tool watch character, the case is water resistant to 300 meters / 30 bars in line with its name. The case is equipped with a scratch-resistant anti glare coated sapphire crystal on the front face. The classic rider tab style unidirectional dive bezel is present equipped with a modern blue ceramic bezel instead of the old aluminum insert. The case back is solid stainless steel with a beautiful diving-bell illustration engraved and accompanied by a large, easy grip winding crown signed by the brand’s stylish logo.
Tag Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 5 (Ref.WAY201B.BA0927) comes a dark blue dial. The lay out of the dial and the design of the accents used offers both stylish and easy-to-read composition. However, those accents and details have another characteristic feature; they look familiar. The horizontal lines on the dial reminds me the dial design of the Omega Seamaster Aquaterra timepieces which is inspired by the teac wood used on the deck of the boats. And the cyclops over the date display window is self-explanatory. The dial supports the sporty character of the model with the orange-tipped second hand and Caliber 5 text written in same tone. Green/blue tone Super LumiNOVA applied hands and indices offer optimal legibility in every occasion.
The model is powered by the TAG Heuer Caliber 5 automatic movement. The movement, which beats at 4Hz (28.800vph), is most probably Sellita SW300 based considering its 38 hour power reserve.
The model I chose for the review comes on a blue rubber strap designed to match the dial color. The strap is decorated with TAG Heuer amblems on both pieces and secured by a matt stainless steel folding clasp. The strap offers a comfortable use on the wrist while giving the model’s overall design a unique touch.
The Aquaracer Collection has always been one of the model groups I like. I used to have the first-generation automatic version with blue dial and I enjoyed wearing it. As always, it is one of the first models to see in person if you are looking for a entry to mid range automatic Swiss diver.
