Tissot’s PRX Powermatic 80 has quickly gained popularity since its introduction more than three years ago as it offers the popular integrated-bracelet aesthetic at an affordable price point. 

In March, the brand added new dial options to the collection, and now it has added more horological power to the smallest model that’s 35 mm in diameter and was previously only available with a quartz movement.

Initial thoughts

A slightly disappointing aspect of the PRX collection was the fact that the 35 mm model only had a quartz movement, until now. Now anyone who wants a mechanical movement in a more wearable size is catered for. 

The overall design of the watch, including its waffle-pattern dial and brushed steel case, remains largely unchanged – a good thing since it is precisely these elements that first captured people’s attention in the first place.

The green version stands out as a personal favourite among the new models and I expect it will be a strong seller overall given the popularity of the colour now.

Starting at US$695 and going up to US$750 for the mother-of-pearl dial, the new 35 mm models are slightly pricier than the original. While the increase in price is perhaps linked to inflation, compared to many of the other integrated bracelet sports watches on the market, it still offers great value for the overall feel it gives.

Now at 35 mm

The latest version of the PRX collection introduces a remarkable decrease in size when compared to the original model which is at 40 mm. With a diameter of 35 mm and a thickness of 10.93 mm, the case retains its distinctive shape and features a brushed finish along with a matching bracelet. 

The new PRX remains faithful to the design heritage of its predecessors in the collection, taking inspiration from the Seastar ref. 40205, a three-hander model from 1978, where it returns to the original case size. This shrinking seems to follow the trend of decreasing case sizes, as we return to those diameters from the 60s and 70s.

The Tissot Seastar ref. 40205 from 1978

The dial of the PRX Powermatic 80 35 mm maintains the distinct waffle pattern that has been a hallmark of previous models. It makes its debut with four exciting dial variations: black, green, blue, and white mother-of-pearl. Additionally, it features a convenient strap-change mechanism, enabling a swift switch from the bracelet to a rubber strap. 

Notably, Tissot also offers a white mother-of-pearl dial that adds a touch of femininity to the watch, a logical variant since the 35 mm case easily suits both genders.

The new PRX models are powered by the same Powermatic 80 movement known internally as the ETA C07. Based on the ETA 2824-2, it has been modified by Tissot with several technical enhancements including a free-sprung balance wheel, an anti-magnetic Nivachron hairspring, and an impressive power reserve of 80 hours.

Key facts and price

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35 mm
Ref. T137.207.11.041.00 (blue)
Ref. T137.207.11.051.00 (black)
Ref. T137.207.11.091.00 (green)
Ref. T137.207.11.111.00 (white mother-of-pearl)

Diameter: 35 mm
Height: 10.93 mm
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Powermatic 80.111

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 80 hours

Strap: Steel bracelet with folding clasp, with rubber strap available separately

Limited edition: No
Availability: At Tissot boutique and retailers
Price: US$695 (blue, black and green), US$750 (white mother-of-pearl)

For more information, visit Tissotwatches.com.