Knot Watches STS-38 (Solar)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 (Solar)

Ballade
Diameter
38mm
40mm
Thickness
6mm
lowest
8.3mm
Water Resistance
30m
100m
highest
MSRP
$222
lowest
$400
Movement
Miyota EL31
11.5'
Case
7 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners praise the Knot Watches Knot STS-38 (Solar) for its appealing 38mm dimensions and lightness, with one owner highlighting the comfortable, soft leather strap and another finding the red Urushi lacquer dial with gold flecks eye-catching. The watch is considered a reliable solar model by some, though the brand is relatively unknown outside Japan and some find its designs bland. A non-standard 17.9mm lug width prevents strap changes, disappointing one owner, and the gold specks on the dial require direct light to be visible. Overall, owners rate the Knot Watches Knot STS-38 (Solar) highly for its comfortable wearability and attractive dial 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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