Hemel HFT20vsVario 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.

Hemel HFT20 at true scale

HFT20

Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph at true scale

Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

Diameter

42mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

49mm

n/a

Thickness

n/a

11.5mm

Water Resistance

100m

highest

50m

MSRP

$450

$328

lowest

Movement

Seiko VK64

Seiko VK64

Case

4 specs
Diameter
42mm
38mm
Thickness
n/a
11.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
n/a
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$450
$328
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Reviews

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

Hemel HFT20

The Hemel HFT20 is praised for its engaging chronograph sweep and convenient grab-and-go wearability, with reviewers noting its legible matte black dial and sapphire crystal. Owners found the watch sweet at its $270 pre-order price, and the 42mm case wears well due to its 49mm lug-to-lug distance. The included leather strap is comfortable and well-made. One reviewer noted the chronograph minutes sub-dial does not precisely jump, and the 16mm thickness is slightly more than ideal for the Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Hemel HFT20 highly for its accessible take on vintage designs and enjoyable chronograph function at its price point.

Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph for its elegant, art deco-inspired tuxedo dial and its value as an affordable chronograph option. Some owners note a criticism regarding the differing fonts used for sub-dial and perimeter markers, and the absence of a traditional running second hand in favor of a 24-hour sub-dial. The Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph features a Seiko VK64 MecaQuartz movement, a sapphire crystal, and measures 38mm in diameter. Overall, owners rate the Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph highly for its attractive design and accessible price point.

From video reviewers

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