Tissot has garnered a strong following as an accessible yet reputable watch brand. This popularity stems from its commitment to providing quality timepieces at reasonable prices. Despite its position in the lower price range, Tissot watches - especially the PRX family - have good value and could potentially be a worthy investment.

Further, the enduring question for many prospective buyers and watch collectors is whether Tissot timepieces truly retain their value over time. Their reliability and durability play a crucial role in this equation. These watches are crafted with precision and care, often featuring Swiss movements, which are renowned for their accuracy and longevity. The combination of affordability and Swiss craftsmanship makes Tissot watches a desirable choice for those seeking a reliable timepiece that won't break the bank. But that doesn’t exactly answer the question.

Read More: STYLISH ELEGANCE: TISSOT PRX POWERMATIC 80

Tissot As An Affordable Luxury Brand

For many, Tissot serves as the gateway to Swiss mechanical watches, and it's a pretty good starting point. They're known for being innovative and responsive to what their fans want. In recent years, models like the PRX, PRX Chronograph, and Gentleman have thrust Tissot into the spotlight for pocket-friendly Swiss luxury watch.

Tissot has its roots in Le Locle, Switzerland, dating back to 1853. The founders, Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son, Charles-Émile Tissot, converted their home into a small factory and embarked on their watchmaking journey. Charles-Émile Tissot later headed to the Russian Empire to sell their savannette pocket watches. Besides, some of their early accomplishments include:

• The first mass-produced pocket watch
• The first pocket watch shows two time zones
• Being one of the pioneers in using anti-magnetic technology in wristwatches

Read More: WHY IS TISSOT PRX SO POPULAR?

As you can see, Tissot has always been known for pushing boundaries. While they may not have the same prestige as brands like The Crown or Patek Philippe, they take pride in their history and their current identity.

In 1971, Tissot introduced the Astrolon, also known as IDEA 2001. Despite the astronomical name, it was the first watch entirely made of 18K plastic, both the watch itself and its movement. In 1985, Tissot released a "rock" watch. Though geologists might argue it's more of a "mineral" watch since it featured materials like:

• Alabaster
• Aventurine
• Basalt
• Blue Lace (Agate)
• Blue Sodalite
• Lapis Lazuli
• Magnesite
• Picture Jasper
• Pink Rhodonite
• Quartz
• Thulite

Most of these are minerals rather than rocks!

In the '80s, Tissot even experimented with wooden watches. Today, the brand has evolved from using unconventional materials to being one of the leading "entry-level" Swiss watch brands. Further, they offer a wide range of timepieces, from inexpensive quartz options to open-heart mechanical ones, catering to various tastes and budgets.

The Characteristics That Boost The Watch’s Value Over The Years

You might have heard that luxury watches have been doing very (read that in all caps) well, and that's true. Depending on the watch you own and a few other factors, you might be looking at a valuable asset. 

Here are some things that can affect whether your watch will keep its value.

Unique Design

When it comes to watch designs, some stand out from the crowd. For instance, there are plenty of dive watches with a black dial, black bezel, and steel bracelets. Sounds ordinary, right? But a Rolex Submariner with the word 'Submariner' in red can be worth $20,000 to $40,000 more than its standard counterpart.

Additionally, timepieces with distinctive designs, whether big or small, tend to catch the attention of collectors and enthusiasts. These unique items often acquire nicknames and stories that further boost their value. Even watches that aren't exceptionally rare can gain extra value due to specific features. Recognizing these design attributes may be challenging if you're not a watch aficionado, so staying informed about the industry can be a valuable asset for investors.

What Is Its Story

As mentioned earlier, a compelling story can significantly boost a watch's value. A story gives a watch character and makes it come alive. People are often willing to pay a little extra for a timepiece with a fascinating story behind it. Who wore the watch? Why was it made? Is there a controversial history? 

Some gem-set Daytonas, for instance, might not be particularly attractive at first glance, with gems packed tightly, leaving little space for the dial. However, the 'Nic Cage' Daytona carries a notable premium, partly due to Mr. Cage's association with it and the iconic photograph taken during their time together. You might even see that happen with a Tissot PRX in Canada.

Brand History

Undoubtedly, brands like Rolex (and others of the same category) and their watches are incredibly in demand. Buying one today might mean you can sell it the next day for a handsome profit just because it's a Patek.

Brands with a rich history, especially those already in the history books, often fetch extra money. Also, you might miss out on certain models, but these brands generally command a hefty premium over their retail prices.

Exclusivity

Is it a special edition? Well, that means people will compete fiercely to make the best offer. An anniversary model? Store it in a safe, admire it, and you'll likely make a tidy profit a few months later.

Production Time

This is different from exclusivity, as sometimes production runs end unexpectedly or changes are made sooner than expected. For example, the SeaDweller 4000 was produced in just three years. While it's a regular sports watch in the catalogue, you don't come across them every day. 

Well, rare items always fetch more money than common ones.

Condition

How well have you taken care of your watch? If it's a vintage model with replaced hands and hour markers, its value diminishes. On the other hand, if it's a new model kept in impeccable condition, its value remains intact. 

It's a bit tricky to pinpoint precisely what people desire in this category, but here's the bottom line: the same watch can vary by $10,000 in value based on its condition.

What About The Tissot PRX Watch That Has Graced Your Wrist?

Let's get straight to the point!

Will your Tissot watch hold its value? Well, the chances are it won't. When you consider the factors we've discussed, there's not much reason to expect your Tissot to increase in value.

While some Tissot watches may have unique designs and stories, these are mostly limited to vintage models. You might stumble upon exceptions like the new ice blue PRX. But in general, it's vintage models that have a shot at holding or increasing their value.

Furthermore, it is an exceptional brand, but they don't typically offer exclusivity. Their approach is to create affordable Swiss luxury, and once something becomes affordable, it's less likely to hold its worth, as buyers may opt for new pieces.

Which Models Have A Chance?

For the most part, you're unlikely to make your money back. There are a few exceptions, though. It doesn't guarantee a full return on your investment, but with effective marketing, you might recoup around 90% of it.

PRX/PRX Chronograph: 

These remain hot items for good reason!

You could potentially recover your investment. Yes, especially with sought-after Powermatic versions or Quartz options if marketed to individuals who may not discern the difference.

Read more: The Resurgence of Vintage Quartz: Tissot Prx Takes the Lead

Le Locle: 

If you take good care of it and market it to those who appreciate a beautiful (Swiss) watch, it could be a reasonable investment.

Gentleman:

Further, this timeless classic tends to hold its value because it's a versatile watch at a reasonable price.

Every investment comes with a certain amount of risk. Buying a Tissot watch doesn't involve significant risk because you can find many of the same models in the same store.

Every Watch Lover Is Attracted To The History!

We've mentioned that vintage watches generally have a better chance of retaining or even increasing in value. So, how about vintage Tissot watches? Have any of them held or gained value?

Reference 6216 Lemania Chronograph: 

Many vintage Tissot chronographs tend to retain value, and the ref. 6216 is a prime example. It was released in the early to mid-40s as a collaboration between Tissot and Lemania under the SSIH brand. It's a beautiful vintage piece that could keep its value with:

• A radium dial
• Large Arabic numerals
• A well-sized 35mm case

Tissot/Omega 33.3 Chronograph: 

Omega, part of the same SSIH company as Tissot, co-developed one of the most beautiful vintage chronographs that don't belong to the three big brands. With a substantial 40mm size, an unusual feature for the 1940s, and the legendary Omega-made chronograph movement called calibre 33.3 -it stands out.

Tissot Navigator 4002: 

The Tissot Navigator is one of the most renowned vintage Tissot models, and the ref. 4002 is highly sought after. This world timer watch outshines, and a single look explains why some are willing to pay big bucks for this timepiece.

Is a Tissot Watch a Wise Investment?

If you're eyeing a Tissot watch to turn a quick profit, you might be in for disappointment. However, if you seek a dependable and high-quality timepiece that could become a cherished heirloom, then a Tissot watch is a splendid choice. They outrank the competition as some of the finest pieces you can acquire, offering excellent value for your money.

Typically, in the first three years, a watch's value drops by 10-20% annually. After just three years, your watch might be worth only about half of its original purchase price. It holds for many watches, with a few exceptions for specific brands and models that instantly gain value, like those with long waiting lists. However, for Tissot, most watches are produced in sufficient quantities to prevent them from being highly exclusive.

There's always the chance that a particular Tissot watch model might unexpectedly appreciate over time, perhaps due to its discontinuation or increased demand! But in such cases, it's more of a gamble, hoping that your watch will be the lucky one. On the other hand, acquiring a Tissot watch as a smart investment, with no intention of selling it at a higher price, is a brilliant idea.

Tissot watches, while not the cheapest, deliver exceptional matter for your money and are a smart choice for those seeking a durable and high-quality timepiece.

Bottom Line

If you’re only buying a watch to sell it at a higher price in a few years, Tissot PRX in Canada is definitely not what you are looking for. However, if you do end up purchasing it, Tissot will be your companion for years to come. It might even be a good heirloom. You just need to know your priorities better!

To browse the complete collection, visit Bijoux Eclore’s product page. You’ll find other luxury watches, too, making it easy to choose from a list of widely loved pieces. So, start shopping!