Seiko Essentials ChronographvsTimefactors PRS-40
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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.

Essentials Chronograph

PRS-40
Diameter
40mm
40.2mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.8mm
lowest
53.5mm
Thickness
11.5mm
lowest
12.3mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
MSRP
$415
$315
lowest
Movement
Seiko 8T63
Seiko VK61
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Seiko Essentials Chronograph for its beautiful and fun dial, with one noting the green dial and gold hands, and another finding the dark greenish dial less impressive than black. The watch is considered a great first watch, comfortable for active wear due to its lightweight nature, and enjoyable for its chronograph function. One owner reported the orange stripe on a stopwatch button expanded and fell off in heat, while another found the 40mm case wore smaller than expected. The Seiko Essentials Chronograph is considered beautiful for its price, especially on the grey market. On balance, owners rate the Seiko Essentials Chronograph highly for its attractive dial and comfortable wearability at its price point.
The watch is praised for its impressive execution and value at its price point. Its 50-meter water resistance is cited as a potential limitation.
Owners widely praise the Timefactors PRS-40 for its unique, "badass" and futuristic design, particularly the 12 o'clock crown and fixed lugs, which contribute to its bombproof nature for harsh environments. The Seiko VK61 mecaquartz movement is noted for smooth winding, and the bead-blasted finish shows light marks but resists deep scratches, with the sapphire crystal being durable. Some owners find the 40.2mm case size acceptable, while others consider it slightly small or large, and the fixed lugs restrict strap options to NATOs. One owner expresses general dissatisfaction with the brand's designs. Overall, owners rate the Timefactors PRS-40 highly for its distinctive, rugged aesthetic and robust build suitable for active use.
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