Cartier Tank Solo Large vs TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173

In-Depth Comparison

The Cartier Tank Solo Large and the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Cartier and TAG Heuer are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Tank reference was introduced in 2014, while this Autavia reference debuted in 2021. The TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Cartier Tank Solo Large beats the Cartier 690 caliber running at 32,768 vph with 4 jewels. The TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 is powered by the Calibre 5 with a 38-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 25 jewels.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Cartier Tank Solo Large features a 31.0mm case at 6.0mm thick with a 40.8mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 comes in at 42.0mm and 13.0mm thick with 50.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. The Cartier Tank Solo Large wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 38g, the Cartier Tank Solo Large is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Cartier Tank Solo Large uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, integrated brancards bezel, while the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Bidirectional rotating, smoky black ceramic with 12-hour scale bezel. On the wrist, the Cartier Tank Solo Large comes on a Black leather strap with Steel ardillon buckle, while the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 is fitted with Green textile strap with leather lining featuring Pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Cartier Tank Solo Large is rated to 30m / 98ft and the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 to 100m / 328ft. For water sports and diving, the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Cartier Tank Solo Large lists for $3,050 compared to $3,150 for the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173. On the secondary market, the Cartier Tank Solo Large trades around $2,500 while the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 commands approximately $2,400.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Cartier Tank Solo Large and the TAG Heuer Autavia Three Hands WBE5116.EB0173 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Cartier Tank Solo Large is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.