Phoibos NarwhalvsTissot 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.

Phoibos Narwhal at true scale

Narwhal

Tissot PR516 at true scale

PR516

Diameter

38mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

46mm

n/a

Thickness

11.5mm

11.2mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

highest

100m

Power Reserve

n/a

80h

MSRP

$509

lowest

$825

Movement

Miyota 9015

Tissot Powermatic 80

Case

4 specs
Category
Diver
Sport
Thickness
11.5mm
11.18mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
n/a
Water Resistance
200m
100m

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
Dial Color
Malachite
White
Indices
n/a
Indexes
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Super-LumiNova ®

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Miyota 9015
Tissot Powermatic 80
Power Reserve
0h
80h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$509
$825
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Reviews

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

Phoibos Narwhal

The Phoibos Narwhal is praised for its captivating aventurine and Howlite dials, and its 38mm case is noted to wear well on smaller wrists, with one owner comparing its profile to a vintage Zenith El Primero. Some owners appreciate the brand's quality for the price, with one describing the case shape as resembling an integrated bracelet. However, criticisms include misaligned markers and a tilted date window, with one owner finding the hands to be too thick. The watch is considered by some to be overpriced at $480, with a slabby design and difficult-to-size bracelet links. Opinions are split on the 38mm size, with some finding it wears larger than expected, and the brand's logo is polarizing. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Narwhal highly for its unique dial options and distinctive case design at its price point, despite some concerns regarding finishing consistency.

From video reviewers

The unique stone dial is a significant strength. The bracelet's refinement is a weakness. Reviewers disagree on the dial's appeal, with one highlighting its sunburst effect and applied indices, while another focuses on the natural stone variation.

Tissot PR516

Owners and reviewers widely praise the Tissot PR516 for its robust build quality, vintage motorsport aesthetics, and accessible price point, with many appreciating its historical connections and the 38mm case size. Some owners find the dial bland and the fixed bezel disappointing, while others note that its 14mm thickness and substantial lug-to-lug may feel large on smaller wrists. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Tissot PR516 highly for its blend of heritage design and modern build at an attractive price.

From video reviewers

The value proposition against competitors is a shared strength. Reviewers did not agree on the case size, with mentions of 40mm and 38mm.

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