A Detailed Look at the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
As a leader in the Swiss watchmaking market, Tissot is recognised by the watch community for its many innovations. One of the Swiss watch brand’s most notable achievements is the Powermatic 80, an impressive modern watch calibre released in 2011. Based on the ETA C07.111, the Tissot Powermatic 80 is a self-winding movement well-known for its extended power reserve. By adopting a more efficient spring barrel and reducing the beat frequency from 4Hz to 3Hz, this calibre can run for up to 80 hours when fully wound.
Tissot utilises the Powermatic 80 in a wide variety of models. However, there is currently no other wristwatch that can compare to the design and drawing power of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. Truly, this is a timepiece you want to be in the know about. Join us on the ride as we go through everything this modern and striking Tissot piece has to offer.
Up Close with the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
After unveiling the quartz versions of the Tissot PRX in early 2021, Tissot released the highly-anticipated Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 a few months later. The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a mechanical watch based on the brand’s 1978 flagship model, the Tissot PRX 40 205.
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is offered in four different colourways — a blue dial model, a black dial variant, a version with a silver dial with a rose gold PVD bezel, and one with a graded brown dial and an 18k fluted gold bezel. Of the four models in the series, the graded brown dial variant is the most expensive piece, selling for approximately $1,850 USD. In today’s watch review, we will be focusing on the specifications and price of the most quintessential version of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80: the black variant Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Ref. T137.407.11.051.00.
Stainless Steel Case
This Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 piece comes in a 40mm case, with a case height of 11mm. Although these dimensions are quite compact; the fixed end links and angular integrated bracelet give the watch the impression of being slightly larger than it is. As such, it can fit quite comfortably and nicely on wrists of any size.
The central case of this watch is made from stainless steel, finely bevelled to form a tonneau shape. It shows off a remarkably uniform vertical brush finish which shines vibrantly under the light, giving the watch a smooth lustre. The unguarded crown on the right side of the case is engraved with the brand’s “T” emblem and has visible notches for an easier grip. However, one downside to this crown is that it is quite small, so you might have some trouble adjusting, especially when you are on the move.
On the underside of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, the back of this watch is sealed off by a see-through rear case that provides wearers with a full view of the Powermatic 80 calibre at work. With its screwed-down crown and rear case, this watch has a solid depth rating of 100m, which is more than enough to withstand some splashes and showers, and even a quick swim in the pool.
Dial
Unlike its quartz counterpart, which showcases a sunburst dial with a completely smooth texture, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 showcases a black waffle-style Tapisserie finish. If you find this Grande Tapisserie design familiar, that is probably because it is akin to the dials seen on various steel sports watches from Audemars Piguet.
The dial contains applied steel indices and blunt hour hands, as well as a steel-framed date complication at 3 o’clock. Apart from the slim stainless steel seconds hand, the indices and hands of this watch are all coated in Super-LumiNova, providing optimal legibility.
On the whole, the look of this whole Tissot piece is clearly inspired by the trailblazing 1970s Gerald Genta steel sports watches, specifically those from Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe. Since other watch brands can provide this classic look on a higher quality model, some might not find the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 to be their ideal cup of tea. However, if you love the legendary Genta steel sports watches and do not have the budget for an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak or a Patek Philippe Nautilus, then the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a great choice.
Sapphire Crystal
Resting on top of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a raised sapphire crystal. As many watch enthusiasts know, sapphire crystals are sought after by watchmakers due to their clarity and powerful scratch-resistant properties. Sapphires possess a rating of “9” on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, meaning they can only be scratched or cut by diamonds.
One downside to sapphire is that the mineral is highly reflective. This could lead wearers to encounter visual distortions when viewing the PRX Powematic 80 at certain angles. However, Tissot avoided this obstacle by treating its sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating. Now, wearers can enjoy reading the time on the PRX Powermatic 80 without experiencing awful light refractions.
Movement
Underneath the Tapisserie dial is the Tissot’s signature Powermatic 80.111 movement. Secured by 23 jewels, this automatic calibre features the renowned 80-hour power reserve along with a reduced beat frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz).
While this Swiss calibre is self-winding, the Powermatic 80 also has manual-winding and hacking capabilities. Other notable aspects of this watch calibre include a ball-bearing rotor and a Novodiac anti-shock device that keeps it protected from hard impacts. Interestingly enough, the Powermatic 80 does not come equipped with a regulator. Apart from the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, the Powermatic 80 calibre can be found in multiple watches in Tissot’s T-Classic, T-Sport, and T-Lady collections.
Bracelet
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 comes with an in-built integrated stainless steel bracelet. Usually, the vast majority of companies do not offer such a well-made watch strap along this price line. By providing the Tissot PRX Powermatic 90 with a sleek watch band that exceeds expectations, the brand enables this watch to really stand out from the crowd.
This stainless steel bracelet has well-brushed flanks and hoods that meld harmoniously with the brush pattern of the case, giving the entire timepiece a more unified look. In contrast to its side links, the centre links of this bracelet display polished surfaces that play with light very well when wearers turn their wrists.
This bracelet is also equipped with a two-button butterfly clasp which has pin-adjustable links and an interchangeable quick release on its back. Do note that since this is an integrated bracelet, it does not have room for micro-adjustments. However, given the standard length of the bracelet, most people should not have any problems achieving a good fit on their watch.
Price
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 retails at around $650 USD. However, if you want to get a better deal on an unworn model in pristine condition, you can purchase the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 on TheWatchCompany for no more than $590 USD. For those who plan to buy a piece from a different professional dealer, the PRX Powermatic 80 can cost between $620 USD to $780 USD, depending on its condition.
Alternatives to the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is an outstanding and incredibly affordable version of the stylish steel sports watches. That said, it might not be to everyone’s preferences, either, whether it is because of its look or its colourway. Fortunately for us, a number of watch brands do offer models with similar styles, functions, and technical prowess. Stick around as we take a look at a handful of excellent alternatives to the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80.
1. Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic 39mm Ref. AI6007-SS002-330-1
Maurice Lacroix is an extremely underrated watch brand. Although they are relatively new to the watchmaking game, Maurice Lacroix has introduced some impressive timepieces that are as reliable as they are eye-catching. One model that works as a great alternative to the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is the Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic 39mm Ref. AI6007-SS002-330-1.
This dashing timepiece comes in a 39mm stainless steel case that sports the distinctive six claw bezel the Aikon series is known for. Paired with a five-link stainless steel bracelet, this watch carries a sleek and modern steel sports look without being too over the top. With its engraved screw-down crown, transparent screwed-in caseback, and sapphire crystal, this Maurice Lacroix piece has a water resistance rating of 2o0m. This allows it to go 100m deeper underwater than the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80.
The dial of this Maurice Lacroix piece boasts a sophisticated black Clous de Paris dial. It is adorned with applied baton-style hour markers, luminous sword-shaped hands, and a date window outlined in steel at 3 o’clock. Although this dial looks similar to the waffle-textured dial of the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, the difference between them lies in the more detailed geometry exhibited on the Clous de Paris dial.
Underneath this watch face is the Maurice Lacroix Calibre ML115. This automatic movement is based on the Sellita SW200 calibre. It possesses a faster beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and a 38-hour power supply.
This model from Maurice Lacroix fetches an approximate price of $1,395 USD.
2. Omega Constellation Co-Axial Chronometer 38mm Ref. 123.10.38.21.01.001
A masterful series packed with unique and exemplary dress watches, the Omega Constellation is one of the brand’s most prized collections to date. For a model with similar features to the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, there is no better timepiece from Omega than the Omega Constellation Co-Axial Chronometer Ref. 123.10.38.21.01.001.
Sheltered in a 38mm stainless steel case with claw-like structures on its flanks, this Omega watch features a fixed stainless steel bezel etched with Roman numeral markers. Although this classy and sophisticated Omega piece is considered a dress watch, it has a depth rating of 100m, which is a bit more than the 50m water resistance capacities seen on most dressy timepieces.
While its case is made from high-end materials and with high-quality craftsmanship, this watch’s dial is undoubtedly the star of the show. It shows off a matte black finish and is decorated with applique indices, luminous dauphine hands, and a slanted steel date complication. Simple yet exquisite in design, this Omega Constellation watch flaunts a universal look that can match well with any suit.
Powering this timepiece is the self-winding Omega Calibre 8500. This chronometer-rated movement has an accuracy rate of -4/+6 seconds per day and a power reserve that can last approximately 60 hours — not as lengthy as the Powermatic 80 but still very adequate. Wearers who want to see the Omega Calibre 8500 at work can view it through the exhibition-style rear case.
Wearers can purchase the Omega Constellation Co-Axial Chronometer for around $4,130 USD.
3. Girard-Perregaux Laureato Automatic 42mm (81010-32-631-FK6A)
Our final alternative to the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Automatic 42mm Ref. 81010-32-631-FK6A. This Laureato model utilises a 42mm brushed black ceramic case fitted with a polished octagonal ceramic bezel on top. Its caseback is transparent, allowing wearers to see the movement in all its mechanical glory. This Girard-Perregaux watch is water-resistant up to depths of 100m and comes with a matching black rubber strap that completes its sporty yet luxurious aesthetic.
Sealed by a layer of sapphire crystal, this dial has a black “Clous de Paris” pattern. It is furnished with printed indices, sword-shaped hands, and a date aperture at 3 o’clock. Its hands and indices are applied with lume for optimal readability even in dark environments.
This watch is driven by the Girard-Perregaux Calibre GP01800. It beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a power reserve that can last up to 54 hours. Those who are fond of all-black aesthetics will surely appreciate the charm and appeal of this Girard-Perregaux Laureato piece.
As the most expensive watch on this list, the Girard-Perregaux Laureato Automatic 42mm Ref. 81010-32-631-FK6A is worth approximately $10,145 USD.
Final Thoughts
This modern Tissot PRX continues the legacy of its classic forerunner. Just like its predecessor, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a handsome sports piece that guarantees precision and reliability. With its tonneau-shaped case, Tapisserie dial, and integrated watch strap, this Tissot also makes for a great Audemars Piguet Royal Oak alternative. But thanks to its very accommodating price of $650 USD, you can get your hands on this watch without spending all your hard-earned savings.
It is hard to look past a Swiss timepiece packed with as many perks as the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. A fashionable timekeeper with a universal look, this Tissot watch can look good on anyone, whether they are out for a walk, in an important meeting, or at a chic event. If you are looking for a wristwatch with a vintage-inspired look and a powerful movement that you can always depend on, by all means, look no further than the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80.
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