Nivada Grenchen F77 Chrono MecaquartzvsVario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound

The Nivada Grenchen F77 Chrono Mecaquartz is praised for its solid case build, legible dial with applied indices and lume, and a domed sapphire crystal. Owners appreciate the mecaquartz movement for its slimmer profile, affordability, and reliability, with some finding the finishing excellent and the watch well-constructed for its price range of $550-$750. However, one owner reported abysmal crown action and a gritty winding feel, while another disliked the meca-quartz movement itself. The integrated bracelet's connection to the case is criticized for effectively increasing the lug-to-lug distance, potentially impacting wearability on smaller wrists. On balance, owners rate the Nivada Grenchen F77 Chrono Mecaquartz highly for its value and build quality, despite some reservations about the movement and bracelet integration.

Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound for its detailed, multi-layered dial featuring applied numerals and guilloche patterns, its elegant Art Deco-inspired design, and the enjoyable winding feel of the Miyota 6T33 handwound movement, often visible through an exhibition case back. The 38mm case size is considered a positive by many, and the included leather strap is noted for its comfort and quality. Some owners find the differing fonts on the sub-dials and perimeter less appealing, and the absence of a constant seconds sub-dial is flagged as a drawback. On balance, owners rate the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound highly for its distinctive Art Deco styling and detailed dial at its price point.