TISSOT | PRX Powermatic 80 

An “innovator by tradition”, Tissot has always had a flair for designs in tune with the times. 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 the depth to which the watch is water resistant - 10 bar, or 100 metres. And so the Tissot PRX was born.
After the enthusiastic response to the quartz PRX 40 205 in 2020, Tissot is moving up a gear, with a counterpart equipped with a mechanical self-winding movement. Like its predecessor, the PRX Powermatic 80 reflects the style of the 70s. The hallmark of Tissot's timeless watches is that they remain true to themselves whilst being perfectly at home in today's world.
Variations
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.
Details
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 words “Powermatic 80” on the dial are a reminder of the mechanical nature of these models. They highlight the fact that the automatic PRX watches feature Tissot’s flagship mechanical movement, its original ETA calibre reference 80.111. 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 a spectacular view of this calibre, designed for the wearer's comfort.
Design
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.
Slenderness
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.
This illusion, in which design conceals dimension, is a hallmark of ingenuity, in which Tissot has a decades-long history. And so the models in the PRX Powermatic 80 range take their place in a long line of watches that Tissot has rendered timeless through its creativity, skill and attention to detail.