Tissot Telemeter 1938vsVario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph
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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.

Telemeter 1938

Empire Tachymètre Chronograph
Diameter
42mm
38mm
Thickness
13.8mm
11.5mm
lowest
Water Resistance
30m
50m
highest
Power Reserve
68h
n/a
MSRP
$2,400
$328
lowest
Movement
Tissot Valjoux A05.231
Seiko VK64
Case
5 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners and reviewers widely praise the Tissot Telemeter 1938 for its vintage-inspired design, handsome dial finishing, and the value it offers as a mechanical chronograph. The automatic Tissot Valjoux A05.231 movement, with its 68-hour power reserve, is noted positively, and some owners describe the movement as feeling "alive." The watch features a polished stainless steel case, monopushers, and a double-sided anti-reflective coating. However, the 42mm case size is frequently cited as being too large for the retro aesthetic, with many wishing for a smaller variant, and its 30-meter water resistance is considered poor. The pusher feel is described as sharp but slightly stiff, and the average accuracy is reported at +6 seconds per day. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Tissot Telemeter 1938 highly for its attractive vintage design and good value, despite concerns about its case size.
Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph for its elegant, art deco-inspired tuxedo dial and its value as an affordable chronograph option. Some owners note a criticism regarding the differing fonts used for sub-dial and perimeter markers, and the absence of a traditional running second hand in favor of a 24-hour sub-dial. The Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph features a Seiko VK64 MecaQuartz movement, a sapphire crystal, and measures 38mm in diameter. Overall, owners rate the Vario Empire Tachymètre Chronograph highly for its attractive design and accessible price point.
The Art Deco aesthetic is a key strength. The Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement is also consistently mentioned.
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