AV86 1960 Racing ChronographvsVario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

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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.

AV86 1960 Racing Chronograph at true scale

1960 Racing Chronograph

Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph at true scale

Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

Diameter

40mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

47.5mm

n/a

Thickness

12.7mm

11.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

100m

highest

50m

MSRP

$399

$328

lowest

Movement

Miyota 6S20

Seiko VK64

Case

5 specs
Diameter
40mm
38mm
Thickness
12.7mm
11.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
47.5mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
Black & Off White
Black

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Miyota 6S20
Seiko VK64

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$399
$328
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Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

AV86 1960 Racing Chronograph

Owners widely praise the AV86 1960 Racing Chronograph for its Speedmaster-inspired aesthetics and its value at the $400 price point, with one owner calling it "nearly perfect." Some community members note its decent finishing and textured wave dial, making it a fun summer daily wearer. However, one owner questions its value proposition against other quartz chronographs in a similar price bracket, and another suggests better quality alternatives exist for the money, though personal preference for the look is paramount. Overall, owners rate the AV86 1960 Racing Chronograph highly for its Speedmaster-like aesthetics and fun summer wearability at the price.

Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

The Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph is praised for its elegant, art deco-inspired multi-layered dial and comfortable leather strap. Owners note its 38mm diameter, 46mm lug-to-lug, and 11.5mm thickness, along with a sapphire crystal and 5 ATM water resistance. Criticisms include the use of different fonts for sub-dial and perimeter markers, and the absence of a traditional running second hand. Overall, owners appreciate the Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph for its distinctive dial design and comfortable wearability.

From video reviewers

The Art Deco aesthetic is a key strength. The Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement is also consistently mentioned.

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