Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMERvsTissot PR516
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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.
Prospex SPEEDTIMER
PR516
Diameter
41.4mm
40mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.9mm
n/a
Thickness
13mm
12.2mm
lowest
Water Resistance
100m
100m
MSRP
$750
$575
lowest
Movement
Seiko V192
13.25'
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsHead-to-head
Forum discussions often highlight the Tissot PR516's perceived superior build quality, with mentions of a better bracelet and movement, and a preferred cushion case shape. Reviewers note the Seiko Speedtimer's solar power and date complication as key advantages. While some find the Seiko on the thicker side, others appreciate the Tissot's overall construction. Ultimately, the choice often comes down to prioritizing build and aesthetics versus practical features like solar power.
Reviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMER for its beautiful dial colors, with specific mentions of ice blue and cream, and its vintage-inspired design. Some find the 39mm case size, which wears smaller than its 41.4mm specification due to short lugs, fits perfectly on smaller wrists. However, owners are split on value, with some considering it a beautiful and incredibly valuable watch, while others question the price for a solar quartz movement and find the 13mm thickness notable. One reviewer noted the lack of quick-release or micro-adjustment on the bracelet. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the Seiko Prospex SPEEDTIMER for its striking dial designs and compact, vintage-inspired wearability.
The solar-powered chronograph movement is a key strength. The bracelet finishing is a potential area for improvement. Reviewers are split on whether the aesthetic successfully revives the spirit of the original "Pogue."
Owners and reviewers widely praise the Tissot PR516 for its athletic 1970s charisma, vintage-inspired dial design, and thoughtful finishing. The manual-wind chronograph variant is noted for its robust case and impressive A05.291 movement with a 68-hour power reserve, while the automatic Powermatic 80 variant offers an 80-hour power reserve in a 38mm steel case at an accessible price. However, several sources flag the bracelet clasp as a letdown, describing it as a folded steel or stamped design that does not match the case quality. Some owners find the dial bland or wish the bezel looked different, and one reviewer notes the 14mm thickness of the chronograph can be noticeable. The Powermatic 80 variant's fixed bezel is criticized by one owner as a departure from dive watch principles. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Tissot PR516 highly for its strong value and retro-inspired design, with the chronograph movement and accessible pricing being key draws.
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