1. Brand Overview / Why Tissot Watches Matter

Since 1853, Tissot has earned its place as one of Switzerland's most respected watchmakers. What sets them apart? They've mastered the balance between everyday wearability and technical precision—offering Swiss-made quality without the stratospheric price tag.

At OD's Jewellers, Tissot represents accessible Swiss excellence—the perfect entry point for first-time Swiss watch buyers and a solid choice for seasoned collectors. From pioneering tactile technology with the [T-Touch] to serving as official timekeeper for the NBA, MotoGP, and Tour de France, Tissot isn't just a watchmaker. It's a cultural presence.

Perfect for:

• First-time Swiss watch buyers seeking genuine Swiss quality (£200–£800 typical range)
• Those prioritising horological substance over fashion branding
• Sports enthusiasts (NBA, MotoGP, Tour de France partnerships resonate)
• Customers wanting the Powermatic 80 movement (80-hour power reserve vs. industry standard 40–48 hours)
• PRX cult followers seeking integrated-bracelet sports watch aesthetic at accessible prices

What makes Tissot different:

• 1853 Le Locle founding: Father-son partnership creating Swiss watchmaking heritage
• 1999 T-Touch launch: First tactile watch with touch-sensitive sapphire crystal
• Powermatic 80 movement: 80-hour power reserve (watch runs 3+ days unworn)
• PRX cult phenomenon (2021): Gérald Genta-inspired design at fraction of luxury competitors' prices
• NBA official timekeeper since 2015: Partnership extended through 2030+, shot clocks in all league arenas

2. The Tissot Story (History & Heritage)

The Beginning (1853)

Founded by Charles-Félicien Tissot (casemaker) and his son Charles-Émile (watchmaker) in Le Locle, Switzerland—the heart of Swiss watchmaking. Their vision was simple: create high-quality Swiss watches that were both reliable and widely available.

Industry Firsts

Tissot didn't just follow trends—they set them:

• 1853: First mass-produced pocket watch
• 1853: First pocket watch with two time zones
• 1930: World's first anti-magnetic watch (Antimagnétique)
• 1953: First mass-produced watch with 24 time zones (Navigator)
• 1971: First plastic mechanical watch (Astrolon/IDEA 2001)
• 1985: RockWatch (carved from Alpine granite)
• 1987: Pearl Watch (mother-of-pearl case)
• 1988: Wood Watch (wooden case)
• 1999: T-Touch (first tactile watch with touch-sensitive crystal)

Modern Era

Today, Tissot operates as part of the Swatch Group (since 1983), maintaining its Le Locle headquarters while exporting to 160 countries. They've revived classics like the PRX and continue pushing boundaries with innovations like the 80-hour Powermatic movement.

Why this matters for collectors: Tissot bridges traditional Swiss values with constant reinvention. Whether it's heritage reissues or modern tech, every watch carries 170+ years of horological expertise.

3. Craftsmanship & Innovation

Swiss Precision Testing

Every Tissot watch undergoes rigorous quality control:

• Water resistance testing across multiple pressure levels
• Impact and shock resistance validation
• Dust and debris penetration prevention
• Real-world condition simulations

The Powermatic 80 Movement

Tissot's automatic calibre delivers 80 hours of power reserve—exceptional reliability that outperforms most competitors (standard is 40–48 hours). This means your watch keeps running even if you don't wear it for three days.

Key features:

• Self-winding via wrist movement
• Nivachron hairspring (anti-magnetic, shock-resistant)
• Visible through exhibition caseback on most models

Why this matters: Most automatic watches stop after 48 hours unworn. Powermatic 80 gives you weekend flexibility—take it off Friday, pick it up Monday, still running.

T-Touch Technology

Introduced in 1999, this revolutionary feature transformed sports watches. Touch-sensitive sapphire crystals control functions including:

• Altimeter
• Compass
• Barometer
• Thermometer
• Chronograph

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable data without carrying multiple devices.

COSC Chronometer Certification

Select models (like the Ballade COSC) carry official chronometer certification—independent validation of accuracy and precision. This is the same standard used by luxury brands costing thousands more.

Quick-Release Strap System

Switch between leather, steel, or rubber straps in seconds. One watch, multiple looks—perfect for transitioning from office to weekend.

4. Tissot's Cultural Impact: Sports, Celebrities & Pop Culture

Official Timekeeping Partnerships

Basketball: Official Timekeeper of the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League since 2015. Tissot-branded shot clocks appear in all league arenas, and their partnership recently extended through 2030+.

Motorsports: Official Timekeeper of MotoGP (since 2001) and World Superbike Championship (since 2011). Their motorsport heritage inspired the T-Race and PR 516 collections.

Cycling: Official Timekeeper for:

• Tour de France (partnership renewed 2016–present)
• La Vuelta a España
• UCI World Championships (partnership since 1995)
• Paris-Roubaix
• Tour de France Femmes

Other Sports:

• International Ice Hockey Federation (since 1996)
• International Fencing Federation
• FIBA (International Basketball Federation)

Brand Ambassadors

Current Ambassadors:

• Damian Lillard (NBA star)
• Sabrina Ionescu (WNBA champion, 2024—first WNBA athlete as International Brand Ambassador)
• Tony Parker (NBA legend)
• Primož Roglič (professional cyclist)
• Enea Bastianini (MotoGP rider)
• Liu Yifei (Chinese actress)
• Simon Gong (Chinese actor)

The PRX Phenomenon

The [Tissot PRX] has become a cult favourite in watch communities worldwide. Inspired by a 1978 design, the modern relaunch (2021) taps into the integrated-bracelet sports watch trend—offering Gérald Genta-inspired aesthetics at a fraction of luxury competitors' prices.

Watch forums and YouTube channels consistently rank the PRX among the best value Swiss watches available.

UK Presence

Tissot opened its first UK flagship boutique in London's Covent Garden (7 James Street) on January 15, 2024. This reinforces their commitment to the British market.

At [OD's Jewellers] in St Helens, we bring that same Swiss prestige directly to the North West.

5. Size Guides

Men's Watches

Case sizes typically: 38mm–44mm

Wrist size recommendations:

• Small wrist (5.5–6.5 inches / 14–16.5 cm) → 34–38mm case
• Medium wrist (6.5–7.5 inches / 16.5–19 cm) → 38–42mm case
• Large wrist (7.5–8.5 inches / 19–21.5 cm) → 42–44mm case

Women's Watches

Case sizes typically: 25mm–34mm

Popular Unisex Models

PRX Collection:

• 40mm (traditionally marketed to men)
• 35mm (unisex—popular with both men and women)
• 25mm (traditionally marketed to women)

How to Measure Your Wrist

Use a flexible measuring tape or string (then measure against a ruler). Wrap around your wrist where you'd wear a watch—not too tight, not too loose.

Tissot provides downloadable wrist size guides on their website. At OD's Jewellers, we'll adjust your bracelet for a perfect fit.

For comprehensive watch sizing guidance, see our [Watch Size Guide Hub].

6. Care & Warranty

Tissot-Specific Care

Service Interval: Full service at an authorised Tissot service centre every 4–5 years.

What this includes:

• Movement inspection and lubrication
• Gasket replacement
• Water resistance testing
• Case and bracelet refinishing (if requested)

Why this matters: Unlike fashion watches needing battery swaps every 2 years, Tissot's service intervals are longer and focused on maintaining mechanical precision and water resistance integrity.

Powermatic 80 Advantage: Three-day power reserve means less daily handling (reducing wear on crown/stem). If you rotate between multiple watches, Powermatic 80 models remain ready to wear even after weekend storage.

At [OD's Jewellers], we guide you through the servicing process and coordinate with Tissot's authorised centres.

For universal watch care principles, see our [Watch Care Hub].

7. FAQs

What do water resistance ratings mean?

• 3 bar (30m): Splash-resistant—hand washing, light rain
• 5 bar (50m): Shower-resistant—bathing, showering
• 10 bar (100m): Swim-resistant—swimming, snorkelling (surface level)
• 20 bar (200m): Dive-resistant—recreational diving
• 30 bar (300m): Dive-resistant—professional diving, meets ISO 6425 diver's watch standard

Important: Water resistance decreases over time. Test annually if you swim/dive regularly.

What's the Powermatic 80 advantage?
80-hour power reserve vs. industry standard 40–48 hours. Your watch keeps running even if unworn for three days. Less daily winding/handling = reduced wear on crown and stem.

Self-winding vs. manual-winding—what's the difference?
Self-winding (automatic): Uses a rotor that spins with wrist movement to wind the mainspring automatically. Never needs manual winding if worn regularly.
Manual-winding: Requires you to wind the crown daily to power the watch.
Tissot Powermatic 80 models are self-winding automatics.

Why is the PRX so popular?
1978-inspired design meets 2021 relaunch at accessible Swiss pricing. Integrated-bracelet sports watch aesthetic (Gérald Genta-inspired) at a fraction of luxury competitors' prices. Watch enthusiasts call it the best value Swiss watch available.

How do I know my Tissot is genuine?
Buy from authorised stockists like OD's Jewellers. Every authentic Tissot includes:

• Unique "WS" (Watch-Secur) code for verification
• Proper packaging and documentation
• Valid warranty card
• Swiss-made marking on dial and caseback

Do Tissot watches hold value?
Tissot occupies the "accessible luxury" segment—respected in the Swiss watch industry but not positioned as an investment brand like Rolex or Patek Philippe. That said: models like the PRX maintain strong resale interest due to cult following, heritage pieces and limited editions often appreciate among collectors, and proper maintenance and complete box/papers preserve value. Think of Tissot as a watch you buy to wear and enjoy—not primarily as an investment.

How often should I service my watch?
Every 4–5 years via a Tissot authorised service centre. Signs you need service sooner:

• Losing/gaining significant time daily
• Difficulty winding or setting
• Moisture under crystal
• Unusual sounds when watch is running

8. Why Buy Tissot from OD's Jewellers?

Authorised Tissot Stockist

We're an official Tissot retailer—guaranteeing authenticity, full warranty coverage, and access to the latest collections.

North West's Premier Selection

One of the widest Tissot ranges in the region, including:

• PRX Collection (quartz and automatic)
• Seastar Dive Watches
• Gentleman Dress Watches
• T-Touch Sport Watches
• Le Locle Heritage Models

Expert Guidance

Not sure which Tissot suits your lifestyle? Our team has over 30 years of experience helping customers choose the perfect watch. We'll guide you through:

• Size and fit recommendations
• Movement type (quartz vs. automatic)
• Collection comparisons
• Aftercare and servicing

Personal Service

In-store bracelet sizing and adjustments—walk out wearing your perfectly fitted watch.

Local Trust

Family-run jeweller serving St Helens and the North West for three decades. We're here before, during, and after your purchase.

9. Links & Authority

Official Tissot Resources:

• Tissot Official Website
• Tissot at Swatch Group

Brand History:

• Tissot – Wikipedia
• The History of Tissot Watches – Worn & Wound

Sports Partnerships:

• Tissot NBA Partnership Extension (2025)
• Tissot & A.S.O. Cycling Partnership (Tour de France, La Vuelta)

Watch Reviews:

• Are Tissot Watches Good? – Teddy Baldassarre
• Tissot PRX Collection Guide – Teddy Baldassarre

Shop at OD's:

• [OD's Jewellers – Tissot Collection]
• Contact OD's Jewellers
• Visit: 41 Barrow Street, St Helens, WA10 1RY