Breitling Superocean Heritage B31 AutomaticvsVaer D5 Meridian Auto

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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic

D5 Meridian Auto
Diameter
42mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
46mm
Thickness
12.0mm
lowest
12.5mm
Water Resistance
200m
200m
Power Reserve
78h
n/a
MSRP
$6,500
$729
lowest
Movement
Breitling B31
Miyota 9015
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
1 specsMovement
4 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Breitling Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic for its revived, characterful design embracing '50s charm and its comfortable fit, with some finding the 42mm case size preferable to larger options. Reviewers highlight the new B31 automatic movement, noting its 78-hour power reserve and COSC certification, along with stylish Milanese bracelets and a thinner, more ergonomic case. Some owners find the watch to be the heaviest they own but also the most comfortable, with lugs that hug the wrist. However, the pared-back dive bezel is noted by some as potentially impacting legibility, and the white date wheel at 6 o'clock could be divisive. Criticism is directed at the movement at its price point by some community members, while others appreciate its quality and COSC certification. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Breitling Superocean Heritage B31 Automatic highly for its revived design and comfortable wearability, supported by its new B31 automatic movement.
Owners widely praise the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto for its classic aesthetic, comfortable 39mm wearability, and well-executed 120-click bezel with minimal back play. Reviewers highlight the anodized aluminum bezel insert, lyre lugs, sword hands, and gold accents on the blue sunburst dial as contributing to its old-school charm. One owner notes the watch keeps good time, running 3-5 seconds fast per month. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto highly for its vintage-inspired design and comfortable dimensions at its price point.
The D5 Meridian Auto is praised for its classic 39mm diver proportions and USA assembly. No shared weaknesses were identified.
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