Knot Watches STS-38 (Miyota 1L45)vsTissot Ballade

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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.

STS-38 (Miyota 1L45)

Ballade
Diameter
38mm
40mm
Thickness
6mm
lowest
8.3mm
Water Resistance
30m
100m
highest
MSRP
$222
lowest
$400
Movement
Miyota EL31
11.5'
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Knot Watches Knot STS-38 (Miyota 1L45) for its 38mm case size, considered perfect for wearability, and its overall quality and finish. The red lacquer dial with gold specks is noted as subtly beautiful and eye-catching. One owner appreciates the ease of strap changes due to quick-release pins and the unique Japanese fabric straps. The Zaratsu polish, while attractive, is reported to scratch easily. The Miyota movement's rotor can be loud, though not to a bothersome degree. Overall, owners rate the Knot Watches Knot STS-38 (Miyota 1L45) highly for its attractive design and quality finishing at its price point.
Owners widely praise the Tissot Ballade for its exceptional value, comfortable wearability, and impressive dial finishing, with many considering it a standout in its price segment. Reviewers highlight its COSC-certified automatic movements, often noting the Powermatic 80 with a silicon balance spring, and a slim case profile. Some owners find the design reminiscent of other luxury watches, and the Jubilee-style bracelet and leather straps receive mixed feedback, with some finding them lacking premium features or detracting from the watch's elegance. One owner expressed disappointment that the specific model they encountered was quartz, preferring an automatic version. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Tissot Ballade highly for its blend of design, precision, and value, making it an accessible "nice watch."
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