The price / performance monster TAG Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 5 (Ref. WBD2111.BA0928), got full score from us with its robust structure, original design and relatively affordable price tag.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 5 comes in a stainless steel case measuring 41mm x 12mm. The surface of the case is dominated with satin brush finish although there are very limited mirror polished parts at the sides of the case and on the bezel. I would like to say a few words about this finishing matter as I believe it drastically changes the character of the model. And we see that TAG Heuer made a great choice in terms of sportiness when designing the surface of the case (and bezel), which is one of the best tricks to highlight the character of the timepiece being introduced. I also think that the dodecagon style bezel being made of the same material with the case gives the model a distinctive originality. I note this detail, opposite to many dive watches with colorful bezel inserts, in favor of TAG Heuer. The model, which I water resistant to 300 meters, is equipped with an anti-glare treated sapphire crystal on the front face and a solid stainless steel case back on the rear side.
The model features an eye-catching dial design thanks to the black framed hands and indexes filled with white Super LumiNOVA phosphor material. These accents offer a beautiful contrast while providing a better legibility. The cyclops over the date display window at 3 o’clock is effective and practical. The orange accents, which are pretty limited with the second hand and Caliber 5 text, can be considered as one of the most visually pleasing details of the model.
Thanks to its dimensions, the model sits comfortably on the wrist. Of course, the bracelet that is brilliantly integrated to the case plays a big role. The bracelet, which is also equipped with a diver’s extension part to be worn on wetsuits, feels light but also firm on the wrist. The solid stainless steel case back that prevents us to enjoy the movement still makes us smile with the beautifully engraved vintage diving helmet figure.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 5 is powered by the Caliber 5 as the name suggests. The movement is either based on ETA 2824-2 or its younger clone Sellita SW200. Both movements are purpose built calibers and widely used in entry or mid-level Swiss automatics. Movements are differentiated with their jewel number, 25 for the ETA and 26 for the Sellita, in case you open the case back but cannot see the brand emblems under the balance spring. Self-winding movement beats at 28.800vph and offers a power reserve of 38 hours.
Let’s come to the most crucial point; the price tag. TAG Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 5 is available with a MSRP of 2200 US$ (US list) that makes it shine as perfect alternative in its price range among its features like built quality and craftsmanship. Its arguably unique style and undeniable brand prestige of TAG Heuer are the other assets.
