Released early this year, the Tissot PRX 20 405 quartz watch has become a best-seller. Inspired by this success, the Swiss watchmaker is unveiling a new automatic timepiece fitted with the integrated bracelet. The new PRX Powermatic 80 features stainless steel case and bracelet, embossed, chequered dial and high-performance automatic movement.
In 1978, Tissot created a quartz model characterised by a bracelet with a wide, transverse link which was perfectly integrated with its flat, slim, tonneau-shaped case. A few years later, Tissot registered the PRX name. “PR” stands for Precise and Robust. The Roman numeral “X” indicates its water resistance -10 bar, or 100 metres. And so the Tissot PRX was born. Like its predecessor, the PRX Powermatic 80 reflects the style of the 70s.
The case of the Tissot Powermatic 80 measures 40 mm in diameter. At 11.3 mm, it is of a similar slenderness to the version equipped with quartz movements. It has a slight tonneau shape and a smooth, slim and polished bezel. The mid-section combines vertical brushed finishes with polished facets, which soften the look.
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 features dials marked with a chequered pattern, the relief of which is printed in the metal itself. This is the hallmark that instantly distinguishes the PRX Powermatic 80 from its quartz counterparts. These dials are available in three colours: black, silver and blue.
Tissot has opted for appliqué indexes on these embossed surfaces, rather than flat decals. These metal components add depth, presence and substance to the PRX line. The window encasing the date display at 3 o’clock is also bevelled and appliqué, which highlights and enhances it.
The versions with black and blue dials are made entirely from steel, from the bracelet to the indexes and the crown.
The third PRX Powermatic 80, with its silver dial, is distinguished by the bezel, hands, indexes and date window. They are all rose gold PVD treated, which further enhances the 70s feel of its design.
The automatic PRX watches feature Tissot’s flagship Powermatic 80 (ETA 80.111) mechanical movement. This Swiss-made movement beats at 3 Hz. It is equipped with a Nivachron balance spring, which guarantees excellent anti-magnetic performance, and its components have been optimised to ensure a power reserve of up to 80 hours. The see-through back offers the view of this calibre.
The lines of the case extend directly into the bracelet of the PRX Powermatic 80 models, without recourse to traditional lugs. The design of this bracelet is based on the series of large links that take up its whole width. Its mobility and flexibility allow it to sit beautifully on the wrist.
The satin finish on the external faces is as carefully executed as the polishing on the internal faces. The former adds a masculine matt aspect, whilst the latter feels soft to the touch. This watch looks flattering, as well as being superb to handle and to wear.
The luminescent hands of the PRX Powermatic 80 models are mounted in a very tightly stacked formation. This creates a raised effect and allows the dial to be brought closer to the glass. The visual effect achieved by the Tissot designers makes the case appear even more slender than it really is.
In the USA, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 watch has retail price of $650.00 for black and blue dial models and $675.00 for silver dial variant.
Technical details
Model: Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
Case
Steel case, polished and satin finishes
Polished steel bezel, or rose gold PVD on the silver dial version
Diameter: 40 mm
Thickness: 11.3 mm
Sapphire crystal, mineral glass back
Water-resistant to 100 m (10 ATM)
Engraved crown
Movement
Mechanical self-winding movement
Powermatic 80 calibre
80-hour power reserve
Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Dial
Dial with chequered pattern, blue, silver or black
Hour and minute baton hands coated with Super-LumiNova®
Appliqué indexes coated with Super-LumiNova®
Date display with bevelled appliqué window
Bracelet
Satin-finish steel bracelet, single link
Triple-blade folding steel clasp
Retail price
$650.00 for black and blue dial versions
$675.00 for silver dial version
