User profile : Regular bodybuilding practice (lifting of heavy loads), need a shock resistant watch and adaptable to daily use. Choice motivated by the search for an alternative to connected watches, with a solar autonomy and a robust construction. Daily use for 6 months.
See the Promaster Tough and the opinions on Amazon
First contact and installation
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Perceived quality : Hardened/titanium steel case (BN0118 model) with anti-scratch coating, immediately reassuring sapphire glass. Solid H-Link bracelet but without conicity (22mm constant), precise millimeter clasp.
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Handling : Quick initial setting (small but readable date window), reactive screwed crown. Titanium model (50g) much lighter than steel (187g).
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Drain : 2 weeks necessary to get used to the weight (steel version) and soften the Kevlar/Rigid Cordura bracelet at the outlet of the box.
Real test vs promises
Performance ::
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Shock : Supports moderate impacts (weight controlled deposit), but avoidance of violent voluntary shocks (risk on the E168 movement according to community returns).
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Tightness : 200/300m tested leisure diving and flawless swimming pool.
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Brightness : Effective super-luminova 4 hours+, Differentiated marking needle for practical minutes.
Disappointment ::
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Bracelet : Uncomfortable steel version for wrists.
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Date : Tiny window (BN0211), illegible in motion.
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Antimagnetism : Not tested in extreme conditions (mechanical workshop).
Key points for the buyer
For whom?
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Moderate outdoor sports practitioners (hiking, bicycle).
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Those who favor zero maintenance (Eco-Drive).
Who’s not?
Alternative ::
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Citizen Promaster Titanium (BN0118): + light, + expensive.
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Casio G-Shock GW-5000 : + shock resistant, – elegant.
Value for money : Correct at 300-400 € (taking into account the sapphire and hardened steel), but competed below 250 €.
Cash verdict
3 strengths ::
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Infallible solar autonomy (Eco-Drive).
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Lightness Titanium version (ideal sport).
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Perfect readability day and night.
3 weak points ::
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Uncomfortable and noisy steel bracelet.
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Shock resistance below a G-Shock.
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Bulky design (47mm with crown).
Recommended ? Yes, for moderate active Wanting an autonomous and versatile watch. Avoid for trades at mechanical risks or fine wrists.