Tissot watches often don’t get enough love or credit in the watch world these days. And that’s a shame, because Tissot has a rich heritage of fine watchmaking and innovation, presenting us with dynamic sports watches, bold diver’s models, elegant dress pieces, sporty chronographs, and even the world’s first touch-screen timepiece.

However, the brand is largely recognized as a true classic but not as high-profile as some of its Swiss counterparts. However, just because Tissot has kept a lower profile does not mean that it has not graced the watch world with innovative timepieces and notable designs. Although most of Tissot’s catalog is positioned on the more affordable end of the luxury watch spectrum, the Swiss brand is incredibly respected and very popular for its versatile and durable designs.

In this buying guide, we’re going to highlight the brand’s history and the timepieces that stand out and make it a Swiss luxury brand. In addition to helping you find the right Tissot watch for your wrist, you will also learn a bit about Tissot watch history and how this historic brand has helped shape the Swiss watchmaking industry as we know it today.

History of Tissot

In order to understand the modern Tissot collection as well as its pre-owned and vintage models, it is important to have an understanding of its long and storied history, as ‘Innovators by Tradition.’

• 1853: Chs Tissot & Fils is founded in Le Locle, in the Jura region of Switzerland by father-son duo Charles-Félicien Tissot and Charles-Émile Tissot.
• 1916: Tissot launches the famous Art-Deco, Tissot Banana.
• 1930: Tissot introduces the world’s first anti-magnetic wristwatch, the Tissot Antimagnétique. Tissot joins SIIH with Omega.
• 1951: Tissot releases the world’s first automatic wristwatch designed to display 24 time zones, the Navigator.
• 1954: Tissot celebrates its anniversary with the Visodate, integrating innovations like a date function to the automatic mechanism.
• 1965: While Rolex had the Daytona, Tissot had the PR 516. Inspired by racecar driving and featuring the world’s first steel bracelet with holes, it was aesthetically groundbreaking and copied by many other brands.
• 1971: The Tissot Astrolon, also known as the IDEA 2001, is released as the world’s first plastic mechanical watch.
• 1983: Tissot is officially part of the Swatch Group
• 1985: Tissot produces one of its most iconic watches, the RockWatch, which was made of Granite from the Alps.
• 1986: Tissot releases the equally iconic Two Timer, the first watch to feature both analog and digital time displays.
• 1999: Tissot launches the T-Touch, the world’s first touchscreen watch, also featuring six functions and combining analog and digital displays.
• 2011: Tissot wins the first prize in the International Competition Chronometry.
• 2014: Tissot launches its T-Touch Expert Solar, the first touchscreen watch in the world that’s also solar-powered.

Le Locle Headquarters

Tissot has operated out of its hometown Le Locle, in the renowned Neuchâtel area of the Jura Mountains of Switzerland since 1853. For more than a hundred years, 90 percent of Swiss watch production came from this region, and to this day, it is known as ‘Watch Valley, the Land of Precision.’ With that in mind, in recent years, Tissot’s reach has become much more global. Found in 160 countries across the planet, including many Tissot boutiques, Tissot is almost unmatched by most other Swiss watch companies in terms of widespread global distribution.

Tissot may not be the most expensive or the most well-known luxury Swiss watch brand, but it has left its mark on the industry with innovations and notable designs that have steered and set the tone for the entire market. In fact, Tissot’s proud slogan is, ‘Innovators by Tradition.’ While anti-magnetic watches gained popularity in the 1950’s, it was Tissot who created that technology decades prior. As the world became more accessible with commercial aviation, Tissot launched the first watch to display 24 time zones, and decades before we’d all have touch-screen smartphones, Tissot made the world’s first touch-screen wristwatch.

Tissot has had its finger on the pulse of consumers and trends for more than 160-years. So much so, that many of its iconic classics have been reimagined and reintroduced to a new audience of contemporary watch collectors as part of the brand’s modern and heritage collections. However, we will get into all of that shortly.

Buying Vintage Tissot

In any thorough Tissot watch review, it’s clear that with a history spanning more than 160 years, there are many vintage Tissot watches available on the secondary market. Typically, any watch over 25-30 years old is considered vintage, and Tissot offers a rich selection from various eras. However, despite the abundance of options, narrowing down your search for the perfect vintage Tissot can still be a challenging task.

You may want to get your hands on a Tissot icon like the plastic Astrolon, race-inspired PR 516, or the RockWatch, but that’s not always where the value lies. The RockWatch, for example, can usually be picked up on the secondary market for a few hundred dollars. While this watch shook the world with its out-of-the-box, minimalistic design and unusual case material, it also only features a quartz movement. Plus, it’s estimated some half-million were sold, so they aren’t exactly impossible to find.

Some favorite Tissot vintage watches among collectors are the vintage chronographs from the 1930’s and 1940s. During this time, Tissot produced some incredibly beautiful chronograph movements, usually revered for their easy-to-read dials and beloved today for their oxidized, two-tone, and character-filled appearances. Today, these watches will typically sell for anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on their condition, rarity, and specific model. While these vintage Tissot watches aren’t as iconic, they hold a lot more value.

Of course, traditional factors such as metal and movement also play a big role in a vintage Tissot watch’s value. Typically, gold watches will cost more simply due to the value of their raw materials. Additionally, Tissot watches that are outfitted with a mechanical movement instead of a quartz movement will cost more than their quartz counterparts but will also hold more value in the long run.

You should also be careful about where you buy a vintage Tissot watch, as like most Swiss watch brands, Tissot watches are subject to counterfeiters. Additionally, due to the wide range in prices, it is always worth doing your research before purchasing a Tissot watch. If a dealer is trying to charge you thousands of dollars for a modern Tissot watch with a quartz movement, there is a fairly good chance that you might be overpaying, as the quartz-powered models typically sell for significantly less. Just like with any luxury watch, it is important to always “buy the seller” when shopping for a Tissot.

Tissot Watch Prices

Today, there are hundreds of models in Tissot’s diverse portfolio. Generally speaking, both men’s and women’s Tissot watches start under $1,000 for the quartz-powered models, and top out at several thousand for the more luxurious models with automatic mechanical movements. Generally speaking, most of Tissot’s quartz models (like the T-Touch, T-Race, and Sea-Touch) can be purchased for under $1k on the secondary market, making them excellent options considering all the features and Swiss-made quality you get for that price.

Of course, being a luxury watch brand, Tissot also has a premium side of its catalog. The most expensive Tissot watches are those crafted from solid 18k gold, which can reach prices of around $3,000 – like the Tissot Vintage Powermatic 80 men’s watch in 18k yellow gold. However, if you’re set on getting your hands on a gold Tissot watch, you can find these models at a significant discount on the pre-owned market, with some of these mechanical watches selling for just over $1,000. Compared to brands like Rolex or Omega, whose gold models can cost tens of thousands, Tissot is best known for providing collectors with exceptional value.

Tissot’s Most Popular Watches

Today, Tissot’s watch collection is large enough to offer every timepiece aficionado something for their wrist. Tissot watches are offered in several technical variations, from classic automatic mechanical movements to quartz and even solar-powered offerings. Additionally, Tissot offers its watches in a variety of designs and specifications – even within each collection, from metals (like stainless steel, gold, titanium, and dual-tone) to different dial colors, materials, and bracelet options.

Le Locle

The Tissot Le Locle collection, named after the Swiss town where Tissot was founded, embodies classic elegance and traditional watchmaking. These timepieces feature refined designs with guilloche dials, Roman numeral hour markers, and sleek cases. The Le Locle line offers both automatic and quartz movements, catering to different preferences and price points. With its timeless aesthetic, the Le Locle is versatile enough for both formal and casual wear.

While the Le Locle collection is praised for its classic styling and value for money, some critics argue that the designs can be somewhat conservative. The automatic models are particularly popular among watch enthusiasts for their Swiss-made mechanical movements at accessible prices. However, the collection’s focus on traditional design may not appeal to those seeking more contemporary or sporty timepieces.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 39.3mm for men’s models, 25.3mm for women’s
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature gold PVD coating
• Functions: Time, date, some models include power reserve indicators
• Bezel: Fixed, polished stainless steel
• Dial: Guilloche pattern, Roman numeral markers
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 30 meters
• Pre-Owned Price Range: $500-$1,500

T-Race

The Tissot T-Race collection draws inspiration from the world of motorsports, featuring bold, sporty designs with racing-inspired elements. These watches typically incorporate chronograph functions, tachymeter scales, and robust cases with protective elements reminiscent of motorcycle components. The T-Race line offers both quartz and automatic movements, with some models featuring Tissot’s innovative touch-screen technology.

The T-Race collection’s strengths lie in its unique design and sporty functionality, making it popular among motorsport enthusiasts and those seeking a bold, masculine timepiece. However, the large case sizes and busy dials may not appeal to everyone, particularly those with smaller wrists or preferences for more understated designs. The touch-screen models offer innovative features but may require more frequent charging compared to traditional watches.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 45-47mm
• Materials: Stainless steel, some models feature PVD coatings or carbon fiber elements
• Functions: Chronograph, date, tachymeter scale, some models include touch-screen technology
• Bezel: Fixed or rotating, often with tachymeter scale
• Dial: Multi-layered with racing-inspired elements
• Strap/Bracelet: Rubber straps or stainless steel bracelets, often with racing-style perforations
• Water Resistance: Usually 100 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: Used $400-$2,500

PRS

The Tissot PRS (Professional Racing Sport) collection combines sporty aesthetics with precision timekeeping, catering to motorsport and cycling enthusiasts. These watches often feature chronograph functions, tachymeter scales, and robust constructions suitable for active lifestyles. The PRS line includes both quartz and automatic models, with some featuring Tissot’s innovative T-Touch technology.

PRS watches are known for their durability and functionality, making them popular among sports enthusiasts. The collection offers a good balance between style and practicality, with many models suitable for everyday wear. However, some users may find the designs too sporty for formal occasions, and the larger case sizes might not suit all wrist sizes. The touch-screen models offer unique features but may require more frequent charging than traditional watches.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 42-45mm
• Materials: Stainless steel, some models feature titanium or carbon fiber elements
• Functions: Chronograph, date, tachymeter scale, some models include touch-screen technology
• Bezel: Fixed or rotating, often with a tachymeter or countdown scale
• Dial: Multi-layered with sporty elements, often featuring contrasting subdials
• Strap/Bracelet: Rubber straps, leather straps, or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 100-200 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $300-$2,500

Heritage

The Tissot Heritage Collection pays homage to the brand’s rich history by reimagining classic designs from its archives. These watches often feature vintage-inspired aesthetics with modern updates in materials and movements. The Heritage line includes a diverse range of styles, from elegant dress watches to sporty chronographs, offering both automatic and quartz movements.

Heritage models are highly regarded for their blend of classic design and contemporary watchmaking, appealing to vintage enthusiasts and those seeking timeless elegance. The collection offers excellent value for money, particularly for mechanical watches. However, some may find the vintage-inspired designs less versatile for everyday wear, and the collection’s diversity can make it challenging to define a cohesive brand identity within the line.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Varies widely, typically 35-42mm
• Materials: Stainless steel, some models feature gold-plated or bronze cases
• Functions: Time, date, some models include chronograph or other complications
• Bezel: Usually fixed, design varies based on the historical model
• Dial: Often featuring vintage-inspired elements such as applied indices or patina effects
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets, some with mesh designs
• Water Resistance: Typically 30-100 meters, depending on the model
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $250-$4,000

Carson

The Tissot Carson collection embodies classic elegance with a modern twist, offering refined timepieces suitable for both formal and casual occasions. These watches typically feature clean, minimalist dials with subtle details that add a touch of sophistication. The Carson line includes both quartz and automatic models, catering to different preferences and price points.

Carson watches are praised for their versatility and timeless design, making them excellent choices for everyday wear or as dress watches. The collection offers good value for money, particularly in the entry-level luxury segment. However, some critics argue that the designs can be somewhat conservative, potentially lacking the distinctive character found in some of Tissot’s sportier or more innovative collections.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 39-42mm for men’s models, 30-36mm for women’s
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature gold PVD coating
• Functions: Time, date, some models include chronograph or moonphase complications
• Bezel: Fixed, polished stainless steel
• Dial: Clean design with applied indices or Roman numerals
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 30-50 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $200-$1,000

Couturier

The Tissot Couturier collection combines elegant design with sophisticated functionality, offering timepieces suitable for both formal and casual wear. These watches often feature clean, modern aesthetics with subtle details that add a touch of refinement. The Couturier line includes both quartz and automatic models, with some featuring chronograph functions or other complications.

Couturier watches are praised for their versatile designs and excellent value for money, particularly in the entry-level luxury segment. The collection offers a good balance between classic and contemporary styling, making it appealing to a wide range of consumers. However, some critics argue that the designs can be somewhat conservative, potentially lacking the distinctive character found in some of Tissot’s sportier or more innovative collections.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 39-43mm
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature rose gold PVD coating
• Functions: Time, date, some models include chronograph or day-date complications
• Bezel: Fixed, polished or brushed stainless steel
• Dial: Clean design with applied indices, often featuring subtle textures or patterns
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 100 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $200-$1,800

Bridgeport

The Tissot Bridgeport collection offers classic, timeless designs with a focus on traditional watchmaking aesthetics. These watches typically feature elegant dials with Roman numeral hour markers and guilloche patterns, reminiscent of vintage pocket watches. The Bridgeport line includes both quartz and automatic models, catering to different preferences and price points.

Bridgeport watches are highly regarded for their classic styling and attention to detail, making them excellent choices for those who appreciate traditional watch design. The collection offers good value for money, particularly in the entry-level luxury segment. However, some may find the designs too conservative or formal for everyday wear, and the collection’s focus on traditional aesthetics may not appeal to those seeking more contemporary or sporty timepieces.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 40-42mm for men’s models, 29-33mm for women’s
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature gold PVD coating
• Functions: Time, date, some models include chronograph or moonphase complications
• Bezel: Fixed, polished stainless steel
• Dial: Guilloche pattern with Roman numeral markers
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 30-50 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $300-$1,300

Classic

The Tissot Classic collection, as the name suggests, offers timeless and elegant timepieces suitable for various occasions. These watches typically feature clean, minimalist designs with a focus on versatility and understated sophistication. The Classic line includes both quartz and automatic models, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Classic watches are praised for their versatile designs and excellent value for money, making them popular choices for both everyday wear and formal occasions. The collection’s understated aesthetics ensure that these timepieces remain stylish regardless of changing fashion trends. However, some may find the designs too conservative or lacking in distinctive features compared to some of Tissot’s more innovative or sporty collections.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 38-42mm for men’s models, 28-36mm for women’s
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature gold PVD coating
• Functions: Time, date, some models include day-date complications
• Bezel: Fixed, polished stainless steel
• Dial: Clean design with applied indices or Roman numerals
• Strap/Bracelet: Leather straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: Usually 30-50 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $150-$600

PRX

The Tissot PRX collection brings a touch of retro charm to the brand’s lineup, inspired by a Tissot model from the 1970s. These watches feature distinctive integrated bracelets and sleek case designs reminiscent of iconic luxury sports watches from that era. The PRX line includes both quartz and automatic models, with the latter featuring Tissot’s Powermatic 80 movement.

PRX watches have gained significant popularity for their stylish retro aesthetics and excellent value proposition, particularly the automatic models with the Powermatic 80 movement. The collection offers a unique blend of vintage-inspired design and modern watchmaking technology. However, the integrated bracelet design may not suit all wrist sizes, and some may find the retro styling less versatile for formal occasions.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 35-40mm
• Materials: Stainless steel cases and bracelets
• Functions: Time, date
• Bezel: Fixed, brushed or polished stainless steel
• Dial: Textured or sunburst finish with applied indices
• Strap/Bracelet: Integrated stainless steel bracelet
• Water Resistance: 100 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $300-$2,000

Seastar

The Tissot Seastar collection offers robust and stylish dive watches designed for both underwater adventures and everyday wear. These timepieces feature water resistance up to 300 meters, unidirectional rotating bezels, and luminous hands and markers for excellent legibility. The Seastar line includes both quartz and automatic models, with some featuring chronograph functions.

Seastar watches are highly regarded for their functionality and attractive design, offering excellent value in the dive watch segment. The collection provides a good balance between professional diving features and everyday wearability. However, some may find the watches too bulky for formal occasions or smaller wrists, and the designs may not appeal to those seeking more minimalist or dressy timepieces.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: Typically 43-46mm
• Materials: Stainless steel cases, some models feature ceramic bezels
• Functions: Time, date, unidirectional rotating bezel, some models include chronograph
• Bezel: Unidirectional rotating, often with ceramic or aluminum insert
• Dial: Dive-style with large luminous markers and hands
• Strap/Bracelet: Rubber straps or stainless steel bracelets
• Water Resistance: 300 meters
• Pre-Owned Retail Price Range: $300-$2,200

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying A Tissot

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about Tissot watches and the Tissot brand itself.

Are Tissot watches good?

Yes. Tissot watches are high-end, Swiss-made timepieces backed by quality and 160+ years of innovation. Tissot has an impressive collection of dynamic sports watches, bold diver’s models, elegant dress watches, sporty chronographs, and the brand even created the world’s first touch-screen, solar powered timepiece.

Is Tissot a luxury brand?

Yes. Tissot is a Swiss luxury watch brand. Tissot has a rich history and produces watches with impeccable quality and fine materials that set it apart from the majority of other commercially available watches on the market.

Why is Tissot so expensive?

Tissot watches are expensive because they are made in Switzerland, by a well-respected company with incredible attention to detail in both the design and materials. You also get great quality and stylish designs with Tissot watches, which makes them more expensive. However, why so many collectors love buying Tissot is that you can get a precise, beautiful watch for much less than other famous Swiss luxury watch brands like Rolex or Omega.

Is Tissot worth buying?

Tissot watches are definitely worth buying! Tissot offers a wide range of high-quality watches that you will love to wear and will last you a lifetime. Additionally, since they cost significantly less than many of their Swiss made counterparts, it is quite a bit easier to own multiple different Tissot watches to provide you with different timepiece options.

Is Tissot better than Seiko?

Tissot and Seiko watches are often compared to one another because they are in a similar, lower price range for luxury timepieces. The big difference here between Tissot and Seiko is that Tissot is Swiss brand with a history that dates back to the 1800s, while Seiko is a Japanese watch brand that is respected but for different reasons, like introducing the world’s first quartz watch. Additionally, while Seiko’s high-end luxury range is labeled as Grand Seiko, Tissot does not have a separate sub-brand for its luxury-oriented pieces.

Are Tissot watches high quality?

Absolutely. Tissot watches are made in Switzerland under strict conditions that ensure quality. Tissot watches are also water resistant to 30, 50, 100, 150 or 200 metres which is indicated on the case back. Additionally, Tissot’s chronometer watches have obtained an official certificate from the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute), which is considered to be the gold-standard in precision timekeeping performance.

How much do Tissot watches cost?

A brand new, Tissot watch will typically cost you around a thousand dollars when purchased at retail. However, the price can increase depending on the metal used (like gold, which is more expensive) or the mechanism used inside (mechanical, automatic movements cost more). Vintage and pre-owned Tissot watches on the secondary market vary in value, anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to several thousands depending on the condition, materials, and rarity; however the secondary market offers exceptional values for many of the brand’s high-end pieces with mechanical movements.

What’s the value of Tissot watches?

The value of a Tissot watch depends on factors like the watch’s provenance, rarity, condition, and materials. Some vintage Tissot watches sell for a few hundred dollars, while others can go for several thousand or more. The average retail value of a Tissot watch is around a thousand dollars, but there exists a significant difference between a stainless steel piece with a quartz movement and a solid 18k gold watch powered by a chronometer-certified mechanical caliber.

Are vintage Tissot watches a good investment?

Tissot watches are a good investment in the sense that they are well-made, durable, stylish, and capable of lasting you a lifetime. With that in mind, you aren’t likely to see the same type of hyper appreciation like with Rolex watches (for example), where certain models sell for several times more than their brand-new retail prices. However, at the same time, being made by a well-respected manufacturer of high-quality timepieces, a Tissot watch will always retain some degree of value, regardless of the specific model or its condition.

Where is the best place to buy a Tissot?

Tissot watches are Swiss-made luxury timepieces, and like any premium product that is desirable to own, Tissot watches can be subject to unscrupulous counterfeiters. It is important that you only ever purchase a new Tissot watch from a boutique or authorized retailer. Additionally, if you are shopping on the secondary market, beware of ‘too-good-to-be-true’ prices and sketchy dealers that do not offer warranties or return windows.

Whenever buying a luxury watch, whether it is a Tissot or other, you always want to shop with a company that has great reviews, a strong social media presence, and stands behind its products with a lifetime authenticity guarantee. Getting a good deal is important, but sometimes the absolute cheapest price isn’t the best deal and the watch will ultimately cost you more in the long run.