TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 vs TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650

In-Depth Comparison

The TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 and the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 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

TAG Heuer and TAG Heuer is a brand that needs no introduction. Comparing two models from the same manufacturer comes down to purpose, design philosophy, and intended use case. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Autavia reference was introduced in 2019, while this Autavia reference debuted in 2022. The TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 beats the Heuer 02 COSC Flyback caliber offering a 80-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 33 jewels. The TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 is powered by the Calibre 7 with a 50-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 26 jewels. The TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 wins on power reserve with a 30-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 features a 42.0mm case at 16.0mm thick with a 50.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 comes in at 42.0mm and 14.2mm thick with 50.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 175g, the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Bidirectional rotating, 12-hour ceramic insert bezel, while the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 features Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal with a Bidirectional rotating, 24-hour ceramic insert (blue/black) bezel. On the wrist, the TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 comes on a Stainless steel bracelet with Folding clasp with double safety push-buttons, while the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 is fitted with Stainless steel bracelet featuring Folding clasp with double safety push-buttons.

Water Resistance And Capability

The TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 is rated to 100m / 328ft and the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 to 100m / 328ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 lists for $6,450 compared to $3,350 for the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650. The TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $3,100 at retail. On the secondary market, the TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 trades around $4,800 while the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 commands approximately $2,600.

The Verdict

Choosing between the TAG Heuer Autavia Flyback Chronograph CBE511A.BA0687 and the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the TAG Heuer Autavia GMT WBE511A.BA0650 delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. 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.