Buying a luxury watch isn't something most people often consider practical. Spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a watch might seem like a bit much when you can easily check the time elsewhere. However, occasionally, a timepiece comes along that blurs the line between a want and a need.

Over the past decade, there have been a few contenders for the title of the best-value automatic watch, the kind you'd pick up when you're just starting to get into the hobby. Two years ago, Tissot introduced a throwback watch that pays homage to a quartz model from the 1970s. The Tissot PRX has a stainless steel sports watch, an integrated bracelet, and a reasonable price tag. While it was undeniably cool, it lacked the pure mechanics found in models from Seiko and Hamilton. But all of that changed with the arrival of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80.

Read More: WHY IS TISSOT PRX SO POPULAR?

Brief History of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80

As mentioned earlier, the PRX Powermatic 80 has its origins in the 1970s, precisely in 1978. Moreover, it could be seen as a somewhat latecomer in that decade, especially when you assume that the Royal Oak had already set the trend for luxury steel sports watches back in 1972.

On the other hand, Patek's Nautilus and Vacheron 222 didn't hit the market until 1976. So, you could argue that Tissot wasn't all that tardy. Additionally, Tissot had the advantage of drawing inspiration from its predecessors.

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The Original Model

The original model was the Tissot Seastar, a sporty watch with a slim profile powered by a quartz movement. Also, it shared some similarities with the GP Laureato, albeit at a more accessible price point. A side note- the Quartz crisis was still ongoing during this time.

If you look closer, you'll notice that Tissot's designers took a push from other popular models of the era, one in particular. If you squint and close one eye, you might even mistake the Seastar for a Rolex Oysterquartz Datejust. They both had tonneau-shaped cases, smooth round bezels, and similar dial designs and layouts. Of course, the Seastar lacked the date magnification feature known as the Cyclops.

Read More: SEIKO VS. TISSOT: THE TWO WATCHMAKING GIANTS

Its Own Identity!

However, it wouldn't be fair to claim that the Seastar was simply a direct copy of the Oysterquartz. Many designs from that era followed a similar circle-on-a-square aesthetic that appeared quite popular.

  • Like its counterparts, the Seastar also had an integrated steel bracelet.
  • It started off wide and then tapered down to a fold-over clasp, providing a decent quality bracelet for the price.
  • Eventually, Tissot decided to change the name from Seastar to PRX.

Over the years, Tissot produced various versions of the Seastar, making it quite challenging to find a good example of the model discussed earlier. Additionally, it's not considered a collector's item or even particularly expensive. It's just that many of them don't seem to be around anymore! The good news is that you don't have to worry about that with the new Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. It's the closest homage to the original you can find, complete with some 21st-century upgrades, of course.

Read More: WILL THE TISSOT PRX GO UP IN VALUE?

The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 | T137.407.11.351.00

Heritage and vintage re-issue watches have been a long-standing trend. Brands have been using this approach, delving into their archives, for many years. Well, it has proven to be quite successful. Take, for example, the Tudor Black Bay 58 or the Omega Seamaster 300. Even Seiko joined in with the impressive SLA017, among others. The key to this success lies in remaining faithful to the original design while creating a modern watch. This is where Tissot has excelled!

To start:

  • The dimensions of the PRX Powermatic 80 closely match those of the original, making it suitable for most wrist sizes. It sits comfortably on the wrist and easily slips beneath a cuff.
  • Further, the case and bracelet combine brushed and polished surfaces, emitting that sporty industrial vibe characteristic of watches from that era.
  • Its finishing and attention to detail are quite impressive, especially considering the lower budget range. It rivals far more expensive watches in this regard.
  • One notable difference is that the case is now water-resistant to 100m.

A Spacious Case

The PRX Powermatic 80 might appear larger than it is due to its wide tonneau-shaped case. Besides, it measures 40mm in width and 39mm in height. The circular dial leaves a good amount of exposed brushed steel. Notably, the lugs are rather narrow, measuring only 12mm. It could be a drawback if you intend to use a third-party strap, but this works in your favor if you want to switch to other Tissot interchangeable straps.

Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the case is highly resistant to corrosion. Despite its generous dimensions, it doesn't feel overly bulky. This is because it has a slim profile, measuring just 10.9mm in thickness. Yes, including the smooth bezel with a semicircular cross-section.

Positioned at 3 o'clock, the crown is knurled around the edge for better grip. You'll spot the engraved "T" for Tissot at the crown's tip. The crown also screws down, contributing to the watch's 100-meter water resistance.

Additionally, the crystal has a slightly beveled edge, adding a subtle touch that catches the light differently without distorting the dial. It's invulnerable to scratches and coated with an anti-reflective finish. Likewise, the display case back is made from the same material. Encircling the case back are various engravings detailing the model and water resistance rating.

Read More: WHAT DOES PRX MEAN IN TISSOT?

A Simple Dial

The PRX Powermatic 80 T137.407.11.351.00 features a light blue dial. But it comes in various colors, including black, white, green, and an eye-catching gold version with an 18K gold bezel. Except for the gold version, all dials have a textured finish with raised squares arranged in a pattern reminiscent of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

Moreover, the words:

  • "Tissot 1853" is printed near 12 o'clock in fine silver lettering
  • "PRX Powermatic 80" is located near 6 o'clock.

Around the dial's edge, you'll find short, very fine marks at each minute. These at the 5-minute intervals are slightly wider and notably longer, featuring white stripes down the middle. A double mark highlights the 12 o'clock position, while the 3 o'clock mark is a bit shorter and sits next to a date window with a matching silver border. Inside the date window, you'll see black Arabic numerals against a plain white background.

  • Both the hour and minute hands match the silver indices.
  • Also, they have a broad and blocky shape with a subtle taper towards the tips.

This design allows for wide white stripes down their centers. In contrast, the second hand is exceptionally narrow, just slightly wider than a sewing needle. Further, the stripes on the 5-minute marks and hands are coated with Super LumiNova. This guarantees that the watch remains easily readable regardless of the time of day.

Read More: THE RESURGENCE OF VINTAGE QUARTZ: TISSOT PRX TAKES THE LEAD

Unparalleled Swiss Movement

What initially drew everyone to this watch was its movement, the Powermatic 80.111. While not extensively documented, online enthusiasts have pieced together that it's based on the ETA C07.111, which ‌ finds its roots in the well-known ETA 2824-2 movement. This adapted movement has:

  • 23 jewels
  • The remarkable 80-hour power reserve

Another interesting feature of the Powermatic 80.111 is its titanium-alloy balance spring. Unlike regular ferrous metal springs, which can be influenced by magnetic fields and disrupt your watch's accuracy, titanium is mostly impervious to magnetic fields. This results in a much more precise timekeeping device.

The Bracelet

Undoubtedly, the standout feature here is the bracelet itself, boasting stunning flat links with polished sections and a noticeable taper. The bracelet's quality truly underscores the value Tissot delivers in the under $1K price range. It all comes together with a straightforward yet practical two-button release butterfly clasp.

One thing worth noting is the bracelet's quick-release spring bars, which make changing straps a breeze. Since its 2020 launch, Tissot has introduced the option of 40mm versions with fitted leather straps in addition to the original bracelet choices. Still, most people prefer to keep the original one as it's the favorite part of the watch and what sets it apart from many others.

That being said, Tissot has made an effort to address fitting issues by including multiple half-links. It should cater to most wrist sizes.

Read More: THE TISSOT PRX POWERMATIC 80: A WORTHY COMPETITOR IN THE LUXURY WATCH MARKET

Buy From Bijoux Eclore

​​Bijoux Eclore is your trusted authorized retailer for multiple luxury watch brands. Besides, we're proud to offer this exceptional timepiece to discerning watch enthusiasts. With our commitment to providing authentic, high-quality watches, be sure that every purchase from us is a genuine luxury experience.

When you buy the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 from us, you can have confidence in the authenticity and quality of your new timepiece. Shop with confidence and make your statement with a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 from Bijoux Eclore.