Nivada Grenchen Chronoking Vintage ValjouxvsVario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph
lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.
Chronoking Vintage Valjoux
Empire Tachymètre Chronograph
Diameter
38mm
38mm
Lug-to-Lug
46.5mm
n/a
Thickness
12.9mm
11.5mm
lowest
Water Resistance
100m
highest
50m
Power Reserve
48h
n/a
MSRP
$4,900
$328
lowest
Movement
Valjoux 23
Seiko VK64
Case
7 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
4 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Nivada Grenchen Chronoking Vintage Valjoux is widely praised for its faithful vintage-inspired design, featuring flat-top pump pushers and drilled lug holes. Owners and reviewers alike highlight the smooth winding feel and proper operation of the manual-winding Valjoux 23 movement, with some noting the friction-based bezel also operates smoothly. The watch is considered excellent value for a manual-wind chronograph under €2K. Some find the faux patina indexes too yellow. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Nivada Grenchen Chronoking Vintage Valjoux highly for its authentic vintage aesthetics and the satisfying manual-wind Valjoux 23 movement.
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.
The Art Deco aesthetic is a key strength. The Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement is also consistently mentioned.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
Also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.