Swiss watchmaker Tissot’s latest addition to its much-loved PRX line challenges the old adage that bigger is always better. In a bold move, Tissot has combined the 35mm case of its most historically accurate PRX model with the mechanical movement of its top-of-the-range piece. The result is a luxurious steel sports watch that references the brand’s own back catalogue while also drawing comparisons with Audemars Piguet’s iconic Royal Oak. The Tissot PRX 35mm Automatic is a stunning watch that is already being described as a smash hit by fans and offers versatile and unisex sizing that can only add to its appeal.
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The Small Watch Trend is Here to Stay
A few years ago the watch world went mad for luxury steel sports watches with an integrated bracelet. Keen to offer an affordable alternative to the Royal Oak or Patek Philippe’s Nautilus, Swiss entry-level brand Tissot didn’t have to look far for inspiration. It recreated its 1978 PRX model – Precise, Robust and with X (10) ATM of water resistance. This new rushed release had a quartz movement like the original, but as a concession to modernity, it came in a larger 40mm case. To say that it was a success is an understatement. Tissot CEO Sylvain Dolla has noted that sales were 20x predictions and, like Rolex, fans even had to go on waiting lists.
Unsurprisingly, Tissot extended the PRX range to include automatic models, 35mm and 40mm cases and a selection of dials including a distinctive waffle pattern. And that is where this latest release sits. For the first time ever the brand offers the classic PRX aesthetic in the 35mm case of the original, but with an automatic movement and a waffle dial.
In addition to capitalising on the smaller size trend, this new model harnesses the essence of the late ’70s and features a distinctive steel case with an integrated steel bracelet. The case has contrasting polished and satin finishes and an engraved crown. There are four eye-catching dial colours – blue, black, green and a mother-of-pearl white. The waffle pattern is embossed directly onto the dial, reinforcing the impression that there’s a lot of watch here for the money.
Both the PRX 35mm front and back boast sapphire crystals with the exhibition rear displaying the Swiss-made automatic movement. It’s Tissot’s ETA-based Powermatic 80, a well-regarded workhorse movement equipped with an 80hrs power reserve. This new iteration is a permanent addition to the PRX family and will be the model many’ve been waiting for. With a price of $1,100 – $1,150, we predict that Tissot has another hit on its hands.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Black
Diameter: 35mm
Case: Stainless Steel
Movement: Powermatic 80 Automatic
Strap: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD $1,100
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Green
Diameter: 35mm
Case: Stainless Steel
Movement: Powermatic 80 Automatic
Strap: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD $1,100
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Blue
Diameter: 35mm
Case: Stainless Steel
Movement: Powermatic 80 Automatic
Strap: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD $1,100
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 White
Diameter: 35mm
Case: Stainless Steel
Movement: Powermatic 80 Automatic
Strap: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD $11,50
