Tissot watches deserve more recognition in today's watch market. With a rich heritage of fine watchmaking and innovation, Tissot offers a diverse range of timepieces. Discover dynamic sports watches, bold diver's models, elegant dress watches, sporty clocks, and the world's first touchscreen watch. Experience the craftsmanship and innovation that make Tissot a standout brand in the watch industry.
Tissot watches deserve more recognition in the watch industry. This brand boasts a rich heritage of fine watchmaking and innovation. Tissot offers diverse timepieces, including dynamic sports watches, bold diver's models, elegant dress watches, sporty clocks, and the world's first touchscreen watch. If you're looking for quality, style, and cutting-edge technology, Tissot should be on your radar. Discover the perfect Tissot watch today!
The Tissot brand is widely recognized as a true classic in the watch industry, though it may not be as high-profile as some of its Swiss counterparts. Despite maintaining a lower profile, Tissot has continuously introduced innovative timepieces and notable designs. Most of Tissot's collection is positioned at the more affordable end of the luxury watch spectrum, making it an accessible choice for many. This Swiss brand is highly respected and famous for its versatile and durable designs, earning a solid reputation among watch enthusiasts. Tissot is an excellent choice if you're looking for quality and affordability in a luxury watch.
In this Ultimate Buying Guide, we'll explore Tissot's rich history and standout timepieces that solidify its reputation as a Swiss luxury brand. Discover how to find the perfect Tissot watch for your wrist while delving into Tissot's legacy and its impact on the Swiss watchmaking industry. Learn why Tissot watches are a top choice for watch enthusiasts and how this historic brand continues to shape the world of Swiss watches today.
History of Tissot
To fully appreciate the modern Tissot collection, including its pre-owned and vintage models, it's essential to delve into Tissot's long and storied history. Known as 'Innovators by Tradition,' Tissot's legacy provides valuable insights into its renowned craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
1853: Chs Tissot & Fils, a renowned Swiss watchmaker, was founded in Le Locle, Jura, Switzerland, by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son, Charles-Émile Tissot.
1916: Tissot introduces the iconic Art-Deco Tissot Banana watch.
1930: Tissot unveils the world's first anti-magnetic wristwatch, the Tissot Antimagnétique. Tissot partners with Omega to join the SIIH, revolutionizing watch technology with anti-magnetic features.
1951: Tissot introduces the Navigator, the world's first automatic wristwatch showcasing 24 time zones.
1954: Tissot marks its anniversary with the Visodate watch, featuring a date function integrated into its automatic mechanism.
1965: While Rolex had the Daytona, Tissot introduced the PR 516. Inspired by racecar driving, this watch featured the world's first steel bracelet with holes. Its innovative design was aesthetically groundbreaking and inspired many other brands. If you're a fan of racing watches or looking for a unique timepiece, the Tissot PR 516 is a must-see.
1971: The Tissot Astrolon, known as the IDEA 2001, is celebrated as the world's first plastic mechanical watch.
1983: Tissot has officially joined the Swatch Group.
1985: Tissot offers one of its most iconic watches, the RockWatch, crafted from authentic Alpine Granite. This unique timepiece combines Swiss precision and natural materials, making it a standout in luxury watches.
1986: Tissot launches the iconic Two Timer watch, the first to feature analog and digital time displays.
1999: Tissot introduces the T-Touch, the world's first touchscreen watch with six innovative functions. This cutting-edge watch combines analog and digital displays, offering advanced technology and style in one.
2011: Tissot wins first prize in the International Competition for Chronometry, setting a new standard in precision timekeeping.
2014: Tissot introduces the T-Touch Expert Solar, the world's first solar-powered touchscreen watch, combining innovative technology with sustainable energy.
2017: Tissot Ballade - Featuring a silicon balance spring, this watch offers greater precision and resistance to magnetic fields, marking another innovation in movement technology.
2018: Tissot Seastar 1000 - A professional-grade diving watch with high water resistance and robust design.
2019: Tissot Gentleman - Launched as an elegant yet versatile watch featuring a COSC-certified silicon balance spring movement.
2020: Tissot PRX - A modern revival of the iconic 1978 design featuring an integrated bracelet and sleek case.
2021: Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar - A solar-powered connected watch that combines smartwatch functionality with traditional Swiss watchmaking.
Le Locle Headquarters
Tissot, based in Le Locle in the famous Neuchâtel area of the Jura Mountains, Switzerland, has been a leader in watchmaking since 1853. Known as "Watch Valley, the Land of Precision," this region produced 90% of Swiss watches for over a century. Today, Tissot has expanded its reach globally, available in 160 countries and numerous Tissot boutiques. This wide distribution makes Tissot one of the most accessible Swiss watch brands worldwide.
Tissot may not be the most expensive or famous Swiss luxury watch brand, but its innovative and notable designs have significantly impacted the industry. Known for its slogan, "Innovators by Tradition," Tissot pioneered anti-magnetic watches decades before they became popular in the 1950s. With the rise of commercial aviation, Tissot introduced the first watch to display 24 time zones. Additionally, long before touchscreen smartphones, Tissot created the world's first wristwatch. Tissot's commitment to innovation and tradition continues to set trends in the luxury watch market.
Tissot has been a leading name in the watch industry for over 160 years. Known for its iconic classics, Tissot continually reimagines and reintroduces these timepieces to a new generation of contemporary watch collectors. Tissot watches combine tradition with innovation as part of its modern and heritage collections. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into Tissot's rich history and timeless designs.
Buying Vintage Tissot
With a history of over 160 years, Tissot watches have become highly desirable in the vintage watch market. Typically, any Tissot watch over 25-30 years old is considered vintage. You'll find a wide selection available when buying a vintage Tissot watch. However, this abundance doesn't make the search process more manageable. Knowing what to look for and where to search is crucial to finding the perfect vintage Tissot watch. Whether you're a collector or a first-time buyer, understanding the critical features of vintage Tissot watches can help you make an informed decision.
If you want to own a Tissot icon, consider models like the plastic Astrolon, the race-inspired PR 516, or the RockWatch. However, the true value might lie elsewhere. Take the RockWatch, for instance. You can often find it on the secondary market for just a few hundred dollars. This watch gained fame for its minimalist design and unique case material, but it features only a quartz movement. Plus, with around half a million units sold, it's common. So, while these Tissot models are iconic, their market value and rarity may vary.
Some collectors' favorite Tissot vintage watches are the vintage chronographs from the 1930s and 1940s. These classic Tissot timepieces are renowned for their beautiful chronograph movements and easy-to-read dials. Collectors appreciate their oxidized, two-tone appearances, which add character and charm.
Vintage Tissot clocks are highly sought after in the watch-collecting community. Depending on condition, rarity, and model, these watches typically sell for $1,500 to $3,500. Despite not being as iconic as some other brands, vintage Tissot watches offer significant value to collectors and enthusiasts.
If you want to invest in horological history, Tissot vintage watches from the 1930s and 1940s are an excellent choice. Their timeless design and reliable craftsmanship make them valuable to any collection.
Traditional factors like metal and movement are crucial when assessing the value of a vintage Tissot watch. Gold Tissot watches generally cost more due to the high value of gold. Moreover, Tissot watches with mechanical movements are typically priced higher than those with quartz movements, and they tend to retain their value better over time. If you're considering buying or collecting vintage Tissot watches, understanding these elements can help you make a more informed decision.
When purchasing a vintage Tissot watch, exercise caution as Tissot, like many Swiss watch brands, is often targeted by counterfeiters. Given the broad price range, thorough research is crucial before purchasing. If a dealer quotes thousands of dollars for a modern Tissot watch with a quartz movement, you might be overpaying, as quartz models generally cost significantly less. Like any luxury watch, the key is to "buy the seller"—ensure the dealer's credibility when shopping for a Tissot.
Tissot Watch Prices
Tissot watches offer a wide range of models for both men and women, with hundreds of options in their diverse portfolio. Affordable luxury is a hallmark of Tissot, with many quartz-powered watch models starting under $1,000. For those interested in more luxurious options, Tissot also offers watches with automatic mechanical movements, which can cost several thousand dollars.
Popular Tissot quartz models like the T-Touch, T-Race, and Sea-Touch are excellent choices for anyone looking to buy a high-quality Swiss-made watch at an affordable price. These models often sell for under $1,000 on the secondary market, making them attractive options for watch enthusiasts.
Whether you're looking for affordability or luxury, Tissot watches blend features, Swiss craftsmanship, and value, catering to a broad audience.
As a renowned luxury watch brand, Tissot offers a premium selection in its catalog. The most expensive Tissot watches, crafted from solid 18k gold, can reach prices around $3,000. A prime example is the Tissot Vintage Powermatic 80 men's watch in 18k yellow gold. However, if you're looking for a gold Tissot watch at a bargain, the pre-owned market offers significant discounts. Some of these mechanical watches sell for just over $1,000. Compared to brands like Rolex or Omega, where gold models can cost tens of thousands, Tissot stands out for providing exceptional value to collectors.
Tissot's Most Popular Watches
Today, Tissot's extensive watch collection caters to every timepiece enthusiast, offering a diverse array of wristwear. Tissot watches come in various technical configurations, from classic automatic mechanical movements to quartz and solar-powered options. The brand also provides a wide selection of designs and specifications within each collection. Whether you prefer stainless steel, gold, titanium, or dual-tone metals, Tissot has something to suit your taste. Additionally, their watches feature a variety of dial colors, materials, and bracelet choices, ensuring a perfect match for every style.
1. T-Classic
Tissot's T-Classic collection showcases timeless design and offers exceptional wrist comfort. Rooted in Tissot's rich history, these watches embody classic Swiss style. The T-Classic is a stylish watch that never goes out of fashion and is perfect for formal and casual wear. Business professionals often pair these elegant watches with workwear and formal attire. The T-Classic collection stands out for its versatility, looking great even on weekends. Enhance your style with a Tissot T-Classic watch that blends seamlessly with any outfit.
The men's watch collection includes famous chronographs, the sleek Tissot Gentleman range, and the stylish Chrono XL Classic line. The women's T-Classic line offers watches with mixed metals, such as stainless steel and gold, beautiful dials, diamonds, and luxurious details. We particularly admire the luxurious Flamingo lady's collection and the Le Locle wristwatches, featuring the Powermatic 80 movement with an 80-hour power reserve. These elegant timepieces are perfect for men and women seeking stylish and reliable watches.
2. T-Gold
For those looking to indulge in luxury and spend more, the Tissot T-Gold collection offers some of the brand's most expensive and luxurious watches. What sets Tissot apart is its balance of high quality and affordability. The Tissot motto, "gold value at silver's price," perfectly captures the essence of the T-Gold collection. Tissot is dedicated to creating affordable luxury timepieces, making it a top choice for those seeking luxury watches without the hefty price tag.
What makes the T-Gold collection stand out? The Tissot Bridgeport Automatic Gold watch features an 18k rose gold bezel and one of the industry's top automatic calibers with chronograph functionality. You also can go right with the Tissot Goldrun or Tissot T-My Lady, both part of this elegant collection.
3. T-Heritage
Tissot boasts a rich heritage spanning over 160 years, making it a leader in the watchmaking industry. Tissot has recreated modern versions of its vintage watches to honor its iconic designs, perfect for today's collectors. These timepieces blend traditional wristwatches' charm with the functionality modern watch enthusiasts desire. A standout from the collection is the Tissot Heritage Navigator. Other notable models in the T-Heritage collection include the Porto, known for its distinctive tonneau-shaped case, the Heritage 1973 models, and the beloved anniversary Visodate watches.
4. T-Sport
Tissot has a rich history in sports, exemplified by their iconic race car-inspired PRS 516 watch. The brand even sponsors some of the world's top athletes. Becoming the Official Timekeeper for MotoGP further cemented Tissot's ties with the sports industry and led to the creation of their T-Sport watch collection. This renowned lineup features a modern version of the PRS 516, boasting unique elements such as brake disc-style bezels, date magnifiers, and highly accurate quartz movements.
Tissot's T-Sport chronograph dials and sporty straps feature vibrant colors and athletic undertones, resulting in innovative, highly technical, functional, and stylish watches. The T-Sport line also includes a series of specially developed watches that embody the core values of basketball, reflecting Tissot's role as the NBA's Official Timekeeper. Additionally, the SuperSport models are characterized by their sleek black tachymeter bezels, which can be used alongside the chronograph dials to measure distance based on average speed or speed based on traveling time.
5. T-Touch
Tissot's T-Touch, the world's first touchscreen wristwatch, is a groundbreaking innovation in luxury watchmaking. The T-Touch features a sapphire crystal touch screen as the interactive hub for its advanced functionalities, including a compass, altimeter, barometer, and clock. These watches are crafted from durable materials like titanium and stainless steel, ensuring they can withstand extreme outdoor conditions.
Today, the most renowned Tissot T-Touch is the Expert Solar watch, an eco-friendly variant of the classic T-Touch powered entirely by solar energy. Tissot also offers a variety of other T-Touch models, such as the T-Race Touch, equipped with a clock that measures to a hundredth of a second, and the T-Touch Expert, featuring an in-built thermometer, ideal for mountaineers.
Conclusion
Tissot watches offer a blend of heritage, innovation, and affordability, making them a fantastic choice for any watch enthusiast. Whether you're looking for a classic timepiece or a modern, tech-savvy watch, Tissot has something to offer. Visit Time Source Jewelers in Huntington Village, New York, to explore our extensive collection of Tissot watches and receive expert guidance on finding the perfect watch for you.
Visit Time Source Jewelers Today
Explore our extensive collection of luxury watches and consult with our specialists for any watch-related queries. At Time Source Jewelers, we are dedicated to providing you with the finest timepieces and exceptional service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying A Tissot
Here are some frequently asked questions about Tissot watches and the Tissot brand.
1. Are Tissot watches good?
Yes, Tissot watches are premium Swiss-made timepieces known for their quality and over 160 years of innovation. The brand offers a stunning collection of dynamic sports watches, bold diver models, elegant dress watches, and sporty chronographs. It is also known for creating the world's first touchscreen, solar-powered watch.
2. Is Tissot a luxury brand?
Yes, Tissot is a renowned Swiss luxury watch brand known for its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship. Tissot watches are made with impeccable quality and fine materials, setting them apart from most other watches available on the market.
3. Why is Tissot so expensive?
Tissot watches are expensive due to their Swiss-made craftsmanship, high-quality design, and premium materials. Tissot pays incredible attention to detail as a well-respected watch brand, resulting in stylish and durable timepieces. Many collectors prefer Tissot because they offer precise, beautiful watches at a more affordable price than other famous Swiss luxury brands like Rolex and Omega. Tissot is a great choice if you're looking for exceptional quality and design without breaking the bank.
4. Is Tissot worth buying?
Tissot watches are certainly worth purchasing! Tissot offers a diverse collection of high-quality timepieces that you'll enjoy wearing and endure for a lifetime. Furthermore, since they are considerably more affordable than many other Swiss-made counterparts, you can easily own multiple Tissot watches, giving you a variety of stylish options.
5. Is Tissot better than Seiko?
Tissot and Seiko watches are frequently compared due to their similar positioning in the affordable luxury market. The key distinction lies in their origins and histories: Tissot, a Swiss brand, has a legacy dating back to the 1800s, while Seiko, a renowned Japanese brand, gained acclaim for innovations like the world's first quartz watch. Moreover, Seiko's high-end luxury line is marketed under the Grand Seiko label, whereas Tissot does not have a separate sub-brand for its premium offerings.
6. Are Tissot watches high quality?
Absolutely. Tissot watches, crafted in Switzerland under stringent conditions, ensure exceptional quality. As indicated on the case back, they are water-resistant to depths of 30, 50, 100, 150, or 200 meters. Moreover, Tissot's chronometer watches have earned an official certificate from the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute), the gold standard for precision timekeeping.
7. How much do Tissot watches cost?
A brand-new Tissot watch typically costs around a thousand dollars at retail. However, prices can rise based on the materials used, such as gold, or the internal mechanisms, with mechanical and automatic movements commanding higher prices. On the secondary market, vintage and pre-owned Tissot watches can range in value from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on their condition, materials, and rarity. The secondary market often offers exceptional value for many of Tissot's high-end pieces with mechanical movements.
8. What's the value of Tissot watches?
The value of a Tissot watch is influenced by factors such as provenance, rarity, condition, and materials. Vintage Tissot watches can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand or more. On average, a Tissot watch retails for about a thousand dollars. However, a significant disparity exists between a stainless steel quartz model and a solid 18k gold watch with a chronometer-certified mechanical movement.
9. Are vintage Tissot watches a good investment?
Tissot watches are a worthwhile investment due to their exceptional craftsmanship, durability, style, and longevity. While they might not experience the extraordinary value appreciation seen with brands like Rolex—whose models can sell for several times their original retail price—Tissot timepieces maintain a respectable degree of value. As a product of a highly esteemed manufacturer of high-quality watches, a Tissot watch is a timeless asset, regardless of the model or its condition.
10. Where is the best place to buy a Tissot?
Tissot watches are prestigious Swiss-made timepieces highly coveted by discerning buyers. However, their desirability also attracts counterfeiters. Always purchase a new Tissot watch from a boutique or an authorized retailer to ensure authenticity. When buying on the secondary market, be cautious of prices that seem too good to be accurate and dealers who lack warranties or return policies.
When purchasing a luxury watch, whether it's a Tissot or another brand, it's crucial to shop with a reputable company. Look for one that boasts excellent reviews, a robust social media presence, and a lifetime authenticity guarantee for their products. While securing a good deal is essential, the lowest price is sometimes the best. Opting for the absolute cheapest option may cost more in the long run.
