Casio Vintage A168WA vs Longines HydroConquest Automatic
Casio's chronograph meets Longines's diver
Quick Verdict
The Casio Vintage A168WA (Under $50) offers Casio Quartz (Battery) precision in the tier below the Longines HydroConquest Automatic ($1,500–$2,500). The Vintage A168WA measures 36.3mm and is rated 30m (3 ATM). The HydroConquest Automatic counters with Swiss Made craftsmanship and 300m (30 ATM) water resistance. Both are exceptional watches for their respective tiers.
Transparency — We earn a small commission on purchases made through our Amazon links. This doesn't affect our editorial independence.
Specifications Compared
| Feature | Casio Vintage A168WA | Longines HydroConquest Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Under $50 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Case Size | 36.3mm | 41mm |
| Movement | Quartz Module 3298 | Automatic L888.5 |
| Caliber Type | Casio Quartz (Battery) | ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Balance Spring |
| Power Reserve | — | 72 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 30m (3 ATM) | 300m (30 ATM) |
| Crystal | Mineral Glass | Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel & Resin | Stainless Steel |
| Origin | Made in Japan | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Casio's design language vs Longines's approach
The Casio Vintage A168WA features a Stainless Steel & Resin case at 36.3mm with Mineral Glass protection. The Longines HydroConquest Automatic offers Stainless Steel construction at 41mm with Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Quartz Module 3298 vs Automatic L888.5
The Vintage A168WA runs the Quartz Module 3298 (Casio Quartz (Battery), standard power reserve) at standard frequency. The HydroConquest Automatic uses the Automatic L888.5 (ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Balance Spring, 72 Hours reserve) at 25,200 vph (3.5 Hz). The HydroConquest Automatic offers a longer power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
36.3mm vs 41mm — different wrist presence
At 36.3mm, the Vintage A168WA wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the HydroConquest Automatic at 41mm. Water resistance differs: 30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Casio sits in the lower tier
The Casio Vintage A168WA sits at Under $50 and the Longines HydroConquest Automatic at $1,500–$2,500. On the specs that outlast any price: the Vintage A168WA uses Mineral Glass with a standard reserve, against Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating and 72 Hours on the HydroConquest Automatic. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
30m (3 ATM) vs 300m (30 ATM)
The Vintage A168WA is rated to 30m (3 ATM) while the HydroConquest Automatic handles 300m (30 ATM). The HydroConquest Automatic offers superior water resistance.
Our Verdict
Casio
Vintage A168WA
Choose the Casio Vintage A168WA if you prioritize Casio Quartz (Battery) engineering, Made in Japan craftsmanship, and 30m (3 ATM) water resistance. At Under $50, it delivers Quartz Module 3298 with solid power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonLongines
HydroConquest Automatic
Choose the Longines HydroConquest Automatic if you value ETA-Based Automatic with Silicon Balance Spring technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 41mm proportions. At $1,500–$2,500, the Automatic L888.5 with 72 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Casio Vintage A168WA and Longines HydroConquest Automatic represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Casio bringing Made in Japan tradition while Longines delivers Swiss Made engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Comparisons
Explore These Watches
How This Page Was Made
Our comparisons are generated from a hand-maintained specification database and reviewed under our editorial standards. We use AI tools to assemble pages from that data. We don’t invent specs: every number traces back to the database, and when we correct an entry, the fix is applied site-wide. As an Amazon Associate, The Horologist earns from qualifying purchases.