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.

1960 Racing Chronograph

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 specsCrystal & Dial
1 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
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.
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.
The Art Deco aesthetic is a key strength. The Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement is also consistently mentioned.
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