Side by side

Tissot PR516vsVaer R1 Racing Chronograph

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

Tissot PR516

The Tissot PR516 is widely praised for its vintage-inspired design, robust and well-finished case, and the value it offers. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight its crisp dials, heritage inspiration, and modern refinements like the Powermatic 80 movement. Some owners appreciate its size and jubilee bracelet, finding it comfortable and a good alternative to other models. However, several sources note a 14mm thickness that can feel noticeable, and the bracelet clasp is considered a weak point by one reviewer, being a folded steel design. The case design is described by some as unrefined or boring, lacking the appeal of the original 70s model, and one enthusiast finds the hands a dealbreaker. The fixed bezel on some variants is seen as a gimmick by some owners, and the orange subdial hand can be difficult to read. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Tissot PR516 highly for its strong vintage aesthetic and robust build quality at its price point.

From video reviewers

The Valjoux automatic movement is a key strength. The price point of €2,145 is a point of contention.

Vaer R1 Racing Chronograph

The Vaer R1 Racing Chronograph is widely praised for its beautiful cream dial, which some describe as champagne-like, and its luxurious case finishing for the price. Owners appreciate its well-proportioned design, pleasing dial with well-chosen font weights, and retro feel, with one noting it remains a favorite in their rotation and has easy band swapping. The watch features a 38mm cushion case, a Seiko VK63 meca-quartz movement, 100m water resistance, and American assembly. One owner noted the 42mm size wears small for a larger wrist, and the "ghost" crown position is mentioned. It includes two signed-buckle straps and a domed sapphire crystal. Overall, owners rate the Vaer R1 Racing Chronograph highly for its vintage-inspired aesthetic and value.

At a glance

12 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
PR51641mm
R1 Racing Chronograph38mm
Power Reserve
PR51668h
R1 Racing Chronograph
Water Resistance
PR516100m
R1 Racing Chronograph100m
MSRP
PR516$2,150
R1 Racing Chronograph$499

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
41mm
38mm
Thickness
14.19mm
12.6mm
Lug-to-Lug
41mm
46mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

5 specs
Crystal
Sapphire
Domed Sapphire
AR Coating
Yes
Dial Color
White
Cream
Indices
Indexes
Lume
Super-LumiNova ®
None

Movement

2 specs
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
68h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,150
$499
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