Tissot Gentleman 38mm review: finally the size we were waiting for
If you ask us about a first serious automatic watch, the Tissot Gentleman's name will come up sooner or later. Chic enough for the office, sporty enough for the weekend, and a price that won't break the bank.
There was always one caveat: at 40mm, it was just a bit too large for smaller wrists. And now there's an answer to that. The Tissot Gentleman 38mm is here, and we've worn it for a week.
Why two millimeters makes such a difference
The previous Gentleman measured 40mm with a lug-to-lug of approximately 48mm. This new version comes in at 38mm with 45.7mm lug-to-lug. That sounds like a minor detail, but the difference is clearly noticeable on the wrist. The case stays neatly within the wrist edges and the watch looks more elegant instead of massive.
We compared it in the same week to the Tissot Visodate 39mm. Interestingly, the Gentleman appears smaller, even though it's only a one-millimeter difference. This is due to the proportions: the Gentleman has a wider, sloping bezel which makes the dial itself appear more compact, and at 11.53mm, it's also slightly thicker.
Four colors: silver, black, blue, and green
The Gentleman 38mm comes in four dial colors. All four have a pyramidal sunray finish, which allows light to move beautifully across the dial.
We had silver and green in our possession. The green is a nice color, but we secretly would have preferred it a shade darker and a bit more matte. As it is, it's a bit too shiny, which makes it feel slightly less luxurious than it could be. Purely a matter of taste, and many people will feel exactly the opposite.
The silver version, on the other hand, is a positive surprise. In terms of appearance, it's closer to green than we initially expected. For those looking for a true all-rounder, the blue is also a great option in our opinion.
Design and finish
The case is mostly brushed with a polished, sloping bezel on top. On the side, a chamfered edge runs along the length of the case band. This contrast between matte and shiny is reflected in the bracelet, and it's precisely what makes the watch appear more expensive than it is.
The hour markers are applied and polished, with Super-LumiNova. The hands are subtle but not small: easy to read without demanding attention. The date window at 3 o'clock has a neat frame that blends seamlessly into the overall design.
Where the 40mm had a clearly visible crosshair pattern on the dial, it is executed much more subtly on this 38mm. In our opinion, this is an improvement.
One point of discussion: "Powermatic 80" is mentioned on the dial. We find a dial to be most beautiful with only the brand name and model name. For comparison, look at the Visodate: it simply says "Visodate" and nothing else. On the other hand: it is also just a good movement to be proud of.
On the back is an open case back, and the current Tissot logo is on the crown and clasp, not the classic logo of the Visodate.
The bracelet: three segments, quick release and 18 mm
The steel bracelet has three segments per link: brushed outer edges and a polished center link. It flows nicely towards the butterfly clasp with push-buttons, and the clasp closes neatly.
Two practical points. There are no micro-adjustments, but there are half links, so you can achieve a good fit. And the strap features quick release.
And now the most important detail, which many people overlook:
The lug width of the Tissot Gentleman 38mm is 18 mm. Not 20 mm, and not the 21 mm of the old 40 mm version. So check that carefully before ordering a strap.
That's good news, because 18 mm is a common size and the watch looks surprisingly good on leather.
Go for leather. On this case, an 18 mm leather watch strap looks really good, and thanks to quick release, you can change it in ten seconds without tools. Looking for something summery? An 18 mm mesh or rubber strap immediately makes it much more casual.
The movement: Powermatic 80
Inside is the Powermatic 80 (caliber C07.611), a further developed ETA 2824-2 with 25 jewels, a frequency of 21,600 beats per hour, and 80 hours of power reserve. The balance spring is made of Nivachron, a titanium alloy that is highly resistant to magnetic fields, temperature fluctuations, and shocks.
In practice, those 80 hours are the nicest thing about this watch. Put it away on Friday evening, pick it up from the table on Monday morning, and it's still running perfectly to the minute. Especially if this is your first automatic, that saves a lot of hassle.
A small nuance for enthusiasts: the Powermatic 80 comes in multiple variants. This Gentleman has the basic version with a Nivachron balance spring, so not the COSC-certified version found in, for example, the Tissot Ballade. At this price, that is perfectly logical.
Water resistance: 100 meters
Here, the Gentleman clearly scores very well. Where the Visodate is rated at 50 meters, the Gentleman is 100 meters water-resistant. Washing hands, a rain shower, a dip in the pool: no problem.
Do you wear multiple watches? Don't keep them loose in a drawer. A watch box or storage case prevents scratches on the case and crystal, and with a microfiber cloth, you can remove fingerprints from that polished bezel without damage.
Price and value for money
The Tissot Gentleman 38mm is priced at €795, exactly the same price as the Visodate on a leather strap.
What you get for that: a 316L steel case of 38mm, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, open case back, 100 meters water resistance, a Swiss automatic movement with 80 hours power reserve and anti-magnetic balance spring, plus quick release and a butterfly clasp. That's a strong list for under €800.
Gentleman or Visodate? This is how we choose
We wore both watches during the same period, so this question is inevitable.
| Tissot Gentleman 38mm | Tissot Visodate 39mm | |
|---|---|---|
| Case size | 38 mm x 11.53 mm | 39 mm x 10.45 mm |
| Water resistance | 100 meters | 50 meters |
| Lug width | 18 mm | 20 mm |
| Character | Neutral, versatile | Vintage, distinctive |
| Price | €795 | €795 to €875 |
The Visodate has more character. The dial is more unique, the classic logo is a delight, and simply more is happening. But it is also a more distinctive watch.
The Gentleman is the safer, more neutral choice. And that's not an insult. If this is your first or second automatic, that's exactly what you want: a watch that goes with you to the office, to the pub, to a wedding, and to the gym, without you having to think about it.
In short: if you're younger or just building a collection, the Gentleman is probably the smartest choice. If you already have a few watches and are looking for something with a story, then it's the Visodate.
Conclusion
For €795, the Tissot Gentleman 38mm offers a lot of watch. Good specs, neat finish, 80 hours power reserve, and finally a size that works for almost any wrist.
Downsides? We would have preferred the green dial to be a bit darker and more matte, and micro-adjustments in the clasp would make the fit perfect. Honestly, there's not much else to criticize.
If you're in the category of "I want to stay under €1,000, but I also don't want to shop under €500," then this one is at the top of the list.
Personalize your Gentleman
Pay attention to the size: 18 mm lug width with quick release. From braided leather to mesh and rubber, you can change your look in ten seconds.
Free shipping from €50. Ordered before 17:00, shipped the same day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the lug width of the Tissot Gentleman 38mm? 18 mm. This is narrower than the 21 mm of the 40 mm version, so pay close attention to this when ordering a strap. The strap has quick release, so you can change it without tools.
How thick is the Tissot Gentleman 38mm? 11.53 mm, with a lug-to-lug of 45.7 mm.
Is the Tissot Gentleman water-resistant? Yes, up to 100 meters. Swimming is not a problem.
What movement is in the Tissot Gentleman 38mm? The Powermatic 80 (caliber C07.611), a Swiss automatic movement with 80 hours power reserve, 21,600 beats per hour, and an anti-magnetic Nivachron balance spring.
How much does the Tissot Gentleman 38mm cost? €795.
In what colors is the Tissot Gentleman 38mm available? Silver, black, blue, and green. All four on a steel bracelet with a butterfly clasp.
Tissot Gentleman or Tissot Visodate? The Gentleman is more neutral and versatile and has 100 meters water resistance. The Visodate has more vintage character and a more unique dial. For a first automatic, we choose the Gentleman.
This watch was provided to us by Tissot for review. Our opinion remains our own.