Tissot Telemeter 1938 Reddit
The Tissot Telemeter 1938 brings a charming blend of vintage elegance and practical functionality, winning praise from Reddit watch enthusiasts for its classic styling and thoughtful details. This chronograph captures the spirit of early 20th century timekeeping while offering modern reliability. Its telemeter and tachymeter scales recall traditional methods of distance measurement from lightning strikes to racing speeds appealing to collectors who value both history and hands-on usability.
Design and Aesthetic Highlights
The Telemeter 1938 is available in two main dial styles, each with its own character. One features a silver-brushed matte tone with black printed numerals, blue hands, and blue and red track scales. The other has a glossy black gilt dial with raised gold numerals, gilt hands, and matching telemeter and tachymeter scales.
- 42 mm stainless steel case with polished and brushed finishes
- Boxshaped sapphire crystal with antireflective coating
- Elegant oval pushers and a classical crown shape
- Transparent caseback revealing the automatic chronograph movement
Reddit user Gayguylikewatches comments on this design:
>My God what a beautiful chronograph!…And very pared down dial with only tissot in old logo with no automatic or writings like those it’s not that big not chonky/thicc boi on my wrist.
This sentiment is echoed by others, who appreciate the watch’s balanced proportions and heritage feel.
Functions: Telemeter and Tachymeter Scales
The dual scale layout attracts collectors who enjoy mechanical complexity and real-world applications. The telemeter scale usually marked in kilometers helps measure the distance of an event by timing the interval from seeing lightning to hearing thunder. Meanwhile, the inner snailing tachymeter scale calculates speed based on travel time.
Redditor jfgarnant notes:
>Its purpose is racing, but the telemeter function was also used during WW1 to time artillery distance, a very cool bit of history imho.
These features create a vintage instrument vibe, attractive to those who appreciate horological nostalgia.
Size, Case, and Wearability
The case measures 42 mm across and about 13.7 mm thick some consider it large for a dress watch. Yet users praise the proportions as well-balanced.
- 42 mm diameter with 22 mm lug width
- Thickness controlled by the Valjoux A05.231 movement
One reddit comment summed up the sizing experience:
>I didn’t get it yet you should try it in person. It work well for my 6.5³ wrist.
Despite its size, the vintage design and thinner profile are said to make it wearable even on average wrists.
Movement: Valjoux A05.231 Automatic Chronograph
This caliber is a modern Swiss automatic chronograph with:
- Automatic cam-lever chronograph architecture
- 4 Hz frequency and around 68 hours of power reserve
- Nivachron hairspring and 29 jewels
- Central chrono seconds, 30-minute sub dial, and running seconds
While some Redditors wish Tissot used a thinner modular movement, many appreciate the reliability and feel of the Valjoux base.
> though I still wish the diameter could go down a bit quicker fix with a milanese bracelet and also it’s pretty lighter than most Valjoux powered mechanical chronograph watches.
Others highlight how the movement feels alive: hearing it echo on the wrist is an appealing experience.
Community Opinions from Reddit
Across r/Watches and r/tissot, the Telemeter 1938 gathers positive feedback for design, heritage flavor, and wearing experience.
- Love it so much I bought two (both dial variants)
- Stellar looking piece, very different from most
- I didn’t realize it was available already love it
Its versatile design neither overly formal nor entirely casual makes it a favorite among those who appreciate vintage-inspired chronographs.
How It Compares with Other Heritage Chronos
Many compare it to models like the Hamilton Intra-Matic, Omega Museum Officer, Alpina 130 Anniversary, and Tissot’s own Heritage 150th chronograph. The Telemeter 1938 distinguishes itself with distinctive scales and its blend of vintage cues with modern execution.
>My local ADs don’t have this one yet but I’m looking forward torn between black and silver dials
Reddit feedback often weighs build quality and legibility especially when compared with Hamilton and Longines.
Community Tips on Strap and Comfort
Owners frequently experiment with strap choices for comfort and style. Posts show leather, NATO, milanese, and beads-of-rice bracelets. One owner swapped the camel leather strap for olive nylon from Tissot, emphasizing how strap choice transforms the watch’s character.
>This beauty came on camel colored cow leather strap, but I decided to swap it out for an olive colored nylon strap.
Adjusting straps is a common way to customize the watch’s vintage aesthetic and wrist feel.
Price Point and Value
At around USD 1,9751,995 (~EUR 1,995), the Telemeter 1938 positions itself as a competitively priced Swiss automatic chrono. It offers collector-grade appeal at a more accessible price than comparable luxury models from Omega or Longines.
One Reddit post highlighted that the watch matches or eclipses peers at a similar value, with standout looks and heritage scales often commanding higher prices elsewhere.
The Tissot Telemeter 1938 stands out in today’s watch market by delivering vintage charm, practical complications, and solid Swiss mechanics at a reasonable price. Reddit consensus is clear: its telemeter and tachymeter scales, classical dial options, and wearable design make it a favorite among enthusiasts. While some might prefer a slimmer case or alternate movements, most agree that it’s a thoughtfully designed chronograph worthy of serious consideration. Whether you lean toward the black gilt or silver dial, it captures history, style, and function in a beautifully balanced way.
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The Tissot Telemeter 1938 has captured the attention of watch enthusiasts around the world, especially within the Reddit watch community. Known for its vintage-inspired design and historical functionality, the Telemeter 1938 pays tribute to classic chronograph timepieces from the early 20th century. Reddit users frequently discuss its detailed dial, well-balanced proportions, and value for money, making it a standout piece in the sub-$2,000 category.
Overview of the Tissot Telemeter 1938
Originally inspired by Tissot’s 1938 chronograph, the modern Telemeter 1938 revives the old-school charm with precision engineering and refined aesthetics. The timepiece features a 42mm stainless steel case, vintage-styled telemeter and tachymeter scales, and either a silver or black dial depending on the model. These features not only enhance the watch’s aesthetic appeal but also speak to its historic significance in timing and distance measurement.
Key Specifications
- Case Size: 42mm
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Dial Options: Silver with blue and red accents or black with gilt printing
- Crystal: Box-style sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Movement: Valjoux A05.231 automatic chronograph
- Power Reserve: Approximately 68 hours
- Water Resistance: 30 meters
Why Reddit Users Appreciate the Telemeter 1938
Reddit users across watch-focused communities such as r/Watches and r/Tissot have consistently praised the Telemeter 1938 for combining vintage charm with everyday practicality. One major point of interest is the dial layout, which features a clean chronograph design without unnecessary branding or clutter. Enthusiasts appreciate the minimal ‘Tissot’ inscription in its old logo font, which enhances the retro vibe without screaming modernity.
Community Favorites
- Subtle design with no modern Automatic text
- Functional chronograph with dual scales for speed and distance
- Appealing for collectors interested in WWII-era inspired watches
Comments from Reddit reveal how users enjoy experimenting with straps and how the timepiece suits both formal and casual occasions. The flexibility and comfort of the watch, combined with its historical aesthetic, contribute to its popularity.
Dial Variants: Silver vs. Black
The Telemeter 1938 comes in two dial configurations: a silver dial with blue hands and colored scale markings, and a black dial with gilt numerals and printing. Each version has its own fan base on Reddit. The silver dial is often described as cleaner and more modern, while the black dial is admired for its vintage warmth and legibility.
Silver Dial Highlights
- Matte finish with blue and red printed telemeter and tachymeter scales
- Blue steel hands that enhance dial clarity
- Highly legible and striking in daylight
Black Dial Highlights
- Gilt printing with vintage-inspired typography
- Dark tone that enhances the warmth of the gold accents
- Preferred by users seeking an old-school military aesthetic
Movement Performance
Inside the Tissot Telemeter 1938 is the Valjoux A05.231 automatic movement, based on the tried-and-tested ETA 7750 architecture. This movement includes a cam-lever chronograph system and is known for its robustness, ease of servicing, and reliability. With a 68-hour power reserve and Nivachron hairspring for improved magnetic resistance, the watch delivers solid mechanical performance.
What Reddit Users Say About the Movement
Watch owners on Reddit generally agree that the movement’s thickness is a tradeoff for its reliability. While some would have preferred a slimmer profile, most users report that the weight and dimensions do not detract from wearability, even for those with smaller wrists.
Wrist Presence and Strap Compatibility
With a 42mm case and 22mm lug width, the Telemeter 1938 has a commanding presence without feeling oversized. Many Reddit users note that the watch feels lighter than expected, and swapping the leather strap for a NATO or Milanese band makes it even more versatile. The watch’s vintage design pairs well with brown, olive, or grey straps for a military-inspired look.
Popular Strap Options Mentioned on Reddit
- Olive green NATO straps for a rugged appearance
- Milanese mesh for a more dressy, 1960s vibe
- Distressed leather for a heritage-themed style
Historical Value and Modern Appeal
The Tissot Telemeter 1938 represents more than just a pretty dial. Its telemeter function harks back to wartime chronographs used to measure artillery distances. The tachymeter scale references motor racing and industrial applications. These dual tools, though rarely used today, create a connection to traditional timekeeping methods that Reddit users find both romantic and intellectually satisfying.
Price and Market Perception
At a retail price of around $1,950, the Tissot Telemeter 1938 sits in a competitive segment of Swiss chronographs. Compared to similar offerings from Longines, Hamilton, and even Seiko’s Presage line, the Telemeter 1938 holds its own with design authenticity, brand heritage, and overall build quality.
Value Considerations
- Reasonable price for a Swiss automatic chronograph
- Well-executed vintage aesthetics
- Reliable movement backed by the Swatch Group
Reddit users often mention that they chose the Telemeter 1938 over other chronographs because of its unique dial layout, historical inspiration, and limited use of branding. It’s seen as a collector-grade piece that’s still wearable and accessible for daily life.
The Tissot Telemeter 1938 stands out as a meaningful and stylish timepiece with broad appeal among watch lovers. Whether you’re drawn to its historical scales, vintage-inspired case, or versatile dial options, it’s clear from Reddit discussions that this watch offers an exceptional blend of form and function. Its approachable price, reliable mechanics, and strong heritage make it a favorite within the community and a worthy addition to any enthusiast’s collection.