Seiko Prospex SpeedtimervsVario 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.

Seiko Prospex Speedtimer at true scale

Prospex Speedtimer

Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph at true scale

Empire Tachymètre Chronograph

Diameter

39mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

45.5mm

n/a

Thickness

13.3mm

11.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

100m

highest

50m

MSRP

$725

$328

lowest

Movement

Seiko V192

Seiko VK64

Case

5 specs
Diameter
39mm
38mm
Thickness
13.3mm
11.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.5mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
Curved
n/a
AR Coating
Anti-reflective coating on inner surface
n/a
Dial Color
n/a
Black
Lume
LumiBrite on hands and index(es)
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Seiko V192
Seiko VK64
Type
Quartz
Meca-Quartz

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$725
$328
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Reviews

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

Seiko Prospex Speedtimer

Owners widely praise the Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMER for its vintage-inspired design and versatility as an everyday watch. Some owners find the 39mm case size comfortable and well-suited for active use. Reviewers note the solar-powered V192 movement offers a six-month power reserve. Criticisms include the watch's thickness, which some find to be between 13-15mm, and the 24-hour subdial. The price point is a recurring point of contention, with some owners questioning the value for a solar quartz chronograph. On balance, owners and reviewers find the Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMER a capable and attractive watch, with its design being the most frequently cited positive attribute.

From video reviewers

The Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMER's solar movement provides reliable power without battery replacements and accurate timekeeping, with a claimed accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. A notable trade-off is the watch's slightly thicker profile and somewhat lacking lume brightness. Reviewers disagree on whether the bezel action is smooth and clicky, with one reviewer praising it and the other not mentioning it.

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.