You might think that a Tissot might not be the best choice of arm candy for a person stuck in an apartment with a broken leg and a pair of binoculars. Well, James Stewart decided to change the narrative by donning a Tissot field watch in Hitchcock’s 1954 classic, Rear Window.
This iconic choice was more than just a subtle and stylish nod— it highlighted the enduring reputation of Tissot watches for being ever so elegant and functional at the same time. A lot has changed since 1954, with new brands vying for the attention of our modern watch enthusiasts. So, what makes a Tissot stand out among modern timepieces? This guide will unravel the history, craftsmanship, and appeal of Tissot watches, ultimately answering your question: are Tissot watches a good brand?
Let’s discover the winning formula behind this Swiss watch brand’s popularity!
What is Tissot?
Whenever you hear the name Tissot, the first thing that should pop into your head is innovation and precision. Now you might be wondering, who makes Tissot watches? Tissot was created in 1853 in the quaint Swiss town of Le Locle by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son.
A Brief History of Tissot
In the mid-19th century, the father-son duo Charles-Félicien and Charles-Émile Tissot quickly gained recognition for their high-quality and reliable pocket watches. The duo was also credited with one of the most groundbreaking achievements in watch history — they created the world’s first dual time zone watch, which was released in the same year as the company’s creation.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tissot’s popularity started gaining momentum, especially in Russia. However, the 1917 Russian Revolution disrupted trade, which further fueled Tissot’s innovative fire.
The 1930s proved to be a major milestone in Tissot’s standing in the watch world today when the company decided to partner with Omega to create the Tissot Antimagnétique. As the name suggests, this was the world’s first anti-magnetic watch. The quartz revolution rolled around during 1970 and Tissot was quick to adopt the technology, introducing the T-Touch which featured a touch screen and a dual analog-digital display.
Today, Tissot aims to achieve a balance between its mechanical heritage and the up-and-coming technologies that intrigue both men and women. Le Locle has now become the hub of Swiss watchmaking and has birthed several well-known brands like Mido and Certina.
Are Tissot Watches a Good Brand?
Answering your question of ‘Is Tissot a good brand?’ is not a simple yes or no. We have analyzed the brand’s history, design ethos, and marketing position to evaluate whether Tissot watches are worth the hype and price.
We’ve already discussed Tissot’s history and how innovation has always been their focal point to stay ahead. Tissot uses Swiss quartz movements which gives it unmatched accuracy. Quartz technology is based on the piezoelectric effect where a quartz crystal oscillates at a precise frequency when it gets electric current. This oscillation keeps timekeeping deviation in check and makes quartz movement significantly more reliable than mechanical watches.
On the mechanical side, Tissot includes advanced calibers like the Powermatic 80. This movement features an 80-hour power reserve, a big leap from the traditional mechanical watches that last about 48 hours. This extended power reserve helps to tell time accurately even if the watch has not been worn for three days. For design ethos, Tissot watches combine aesthetics with functionality, and the brand has a watch for all tastes. Their choice of materials stands out in particular, though.
- Nivachron
- Silicon
- Sapphire
- Diamonds
- Gold
- Mother of Pearl
- Ceramic
In the luxury market, Tissot has a very strategic standpoint: the brand offers Swiss-made watches with high-quality components at a very reasonable price point. This approach helps them expand their target audience and cast a wider net. They even use their iconic sporty design to their advantage and target the younger population.
So, if we take a logical perspective to the question of ‘Is Tissot a good brand?’, then yes, Tissot checks all the boxes that make it a subjectively sound watch brand.
Is Tissot Worth Buying?
Again, the answer depends on both practical and emotional aspects of owning a timepiece like Tissot. Tissot is not a watch you invest in but a piece of history you want to wear on your wrist.
One of the best parts about Tissot is that they know how to stay affordable while maintaining quality and precision, whether you opt for a classic like Tissot Automatic Le Locle or a sporty one like the PRC 200. While they are not the cheapest in the market, they offer much value for the money.
Of course, there is an emotional aspect to owning a Tissot watch. Be it a graduation, a promotion, or a special occasion — having the same Tissot on your wrist gives it sentimental value. It is a piece you might find yourself looking at with fondness years down the road.
Most Notable Tissot Watch Collections throughout History
Here are some of the best watch collections by Tissot:
- Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
The PRX Powermatic 80 is a modern icon that’s retro but fresh at the same time. Its integrated bracelet and subtle lines will remind you of the 70s, but the 80-hour power reserve pulls you right into the present.
- Tissot T-Touch Solar
The T-Touch Solar is powered by solar energy and looks like it’s straight out of Terminator. It has a touch-sensitive sapphire crystal that gives it features like altimeter, barometer, and compass.
- Tissot Gentleman
If you want the classic feel of a watch, the Tissot Gentleman is a go-to. This collection has an elegance that makes it perfect for formal occasions where you want to channel your inner James Bond vibes.
- Tissot Seastar:
This collection is designed for those who need a watch that can handle the depths, featuring mind-blowing water resistance and luminous markers for underwater visibility. This is your companion on your underwater adventures.
How Do You Wind a Tissot Automatic Watch
If you have come to the conclusion that Tissot watches are worth your investment, then you will need a Tissot watch winder to keep the timepiece running smoothly.
Here’s a simple guide to winding the watch:
What’s Your Watch Type?
Tissot watches come in different types, but the two main categories are:
- Manual Wind Watches: These require regular winding to keep the watch powered.
- Self-Winding Watches: These wind themselves through natural wrist movement or with the help of a watch winder.
Tissot also produces quartz watches that are battery-powered so make sure you know your watch type before proceeding further.
Wearing the Watch Daily
If your Tissot is a self-winding timepiece, then simply wearing it regularly will be enough. Your natural wrist movements will keep the watch wound and the time accurate without any extra effort.
Manual Winding: Rotating the Crown
If you have a Tissot manual wind watch, here’s how to wind it properly:
- Locate the Crown: This is the small knob on the side of your watch.
- Wind Clockwise: Turn the crown clockwise about 30 to 40 times.
- Avoid Overwinding: Stop as soon as you feel resistance. Overwinding can damage the internal mechanisms.
Automatic Winding: Using a Watch Winder
If you have multiple watches or don’t wear your piece daily, you need a Tissot automatic watch winder. A watch winder rotates your watch in regular intervals to mimic the movements of your wrist.
A Tissot PRX watch winder includes different rotation settings like clockwise, anticlockwise, or both. For Tissot automatic watches, a typical watch winder setting is 650 to 800 revolutions per day, usually winding clockwise. A high-quality watch winder for Tissot automatic watches keeps the time accurate without you constantly wearing all your watches.
Conclusion
So, is Tissot worth buying? Yes, if you are a watch lover who values the beauty of the mechanism behind the face and brand of the watch. Tissot is easy on the pocket, it has Swiss craftsmanship that remains unmatched and an emotional value that makes it timeless.
In short, if you are looking for a watch that delivers on both style and substance, Tissot is a brand worth considering.
If you have already invested in Tissot watches, then keeping their time accurate shouldn’t be a hassle with Mozlsy’s premium quality watch winders. With customizable Turns per Day settings, Japan Mabuchi motors, and a battery that lasts up to 30 days, your Tissots are in capable hands with Mozsly winders.
Explore our range of products today and give your cherished watch the care it deserves!
FAQs
1. Who Makes Tissot Watches?
Tissot is made by the Swatch Group, one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world.
2. Are Tissot Watches Waterproof?
Many Tissot watches are water-resistant, but always check the specific model’s rating for depth limits.
3. Do Tissot Watches Retain Their Value?
Tissot watches don’t hold their value like high-end luxury brands such as Rolex or Patek Philippe, but they do fairly well in the mid-range market. If you’re buying a Tissot, it’s more about enjoying Swiss craftsmanship, innovation, and style at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
4. Why Is Tissot So Expensive?
While Tissot watches may seem pricey compared to fashion watches, they are actually quite affordable within the world of Swiss timepieces. The cost reflects their use of high-quality materials, precision Swiss movements, and innovative features like the Powermatic 80 or T-Touch technology.
5. Is Tissot Considered a Luxury Watch?
While Tissot is more affordable than brands like Rolex or Omega, it is considered an entry-level luxury brand due to its quality, precision, and heritage.
