Tissot PRX Collection Evolution: History, Models & Highlights
Among the revival stories of vintage collections, the resurgence of the Tissot PRX is a lesson in coming back stronger and sleeker than ever. With its sharp design and integrated bracelet, it’s a timepiece that effortlessly blends vintage flair with modern engineering. The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 leads the charge offering an automatic movement with an impressive 80 hour power reserve with a precision built to last. For those drawn to mechanical magic, the Tissot PRX Automatic delivers with refined craftsmanship. And for lovers of simplicity and everyday reliability, the Tissot PRX quartz movement brings iconic style with effortless ease. Tissot has not just revived a classic but has redefined it, giving today’s watch lovers a reason to fall in love with retro-modern design all over again.
History of the PRX
The story of the Tissot PRX begins in the transformative era of the 1970s, a time when quartz technology disrupted the traditional Swiss watchmaking landscape. In 1978, Tissot responded with the Seastar Automatic, a timepiece that perfectly captured the bold spirit of the age. It featured models with a flat, barrel-shaped case paired with an integrated bracelet of wide horizontal links or leather straps echoing the luxury sports watch trend of the decade. Embracing innovation, it housed a precise automatic movement and offered a balanced dial with three hands and a day-date window at 3 o’clock. More than just stylish, the Seastar Automatic brought the high-end aesthetic of integrated design to a broader audience, laying the foundation for what would evolve into the iconic PRX series.
Why Is It Named the PRX?
Soon after the Seastar Automatic made its mark, Tissot introduced a name that would define an icon, the Tissot PRX. Far from arbitrary, the name was an intentional reflection of the watch’s character. “PR” stands for Precise and Robust, capturing its reliable performance and sturdy build. The “X,” symbolizing the Roman numeral for 10, represents its 10 ATM (100 meters) water resistance. This thoughtful naming highlighted the technical strengths of the Tissot PRX Quartz and laid the groundwork for future models like the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 and Tissot PRX Automatic, reinforcing Tissot’s vision of affordable, resilient, and stylish timepieces.
The Hibernation of PRX
Despite its early popularity, the Tissot PRX eventually slipped into obscurity, much like many quartz watches of its time. As Tissot CEO Sylvain Dolla noted, the PRX became more of a charming relic than a collector’s staple, being a stylish conversation starter rather than a core timepiece. For years, it rested quietly in Tissot’s archives, overshadowed by shifting trends and evolving tastes. Yet, this long pause worked in its favor. With time, the original design gained a nostalgic charm, transforming into a vintage icon. When the moment was right, the PRX returned not as a relic but as a refined classic ready for modern wrists.
The Revival of the PRX
In the year 2021, Tissot revitalized the iconic design with a modern evolution of their models that pays homage to the original while embracing contemporary refinement. The seamless integration of the case and bracelet was enhanced, accompanied by a slim, polished bezel and textured dials with sun or vertical brushing for added depth. The Tissot PRX Quartz continues the brand’s legacy of precision, while the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 introduces the beloved automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve. Mechanical enthusiasts also welcomed the Tissot PRX Automatic chronograph, featuring a 60-hour reserve and classic 3-6-9 sub-dial layout. With multiple sizes, including the 35mm Powermatic 80, and bold new colors like ice blue and gold, the PRX now caters to every wrist. The Tissot PRX, today, boasts of an expansive collection showcasing a range of case sizes and dials colours and styles. These timepieces also feature a variety of materials from steel to carbon.
Let’s explore the journey of the PRX since its revival, below are some of the landmark timepieces of Tissot’s PRX collection from the recent years.
2021: The Revival
Tissot PRX
Reference Number: T137.410.11.091.00
In February 2021, the Tissot PRX Quartz marked a bold revival of a beloved 1970s design, bringing vintage charm into the modern era. Staying faithful to its roots, it retained a quartz movement, the Swiss-made ETA F06.115 while updating the case size to 40mm for a more contemporary fit. The sunburst dial replaced the vintage waffle texture but key elements like the barrel-shaped case, faceted hour markers and polished bracelet links remained. Affordable yet refined, the Tissot PRX Quartz quickly earned praise for its sharp finishing and retro-inspired appeal. With this, that year the brand brought new variants of the same model in blue dial and yellow gold coating variant paying tribute to the original 1970 model making sure of evolving the PRX without compromising its identity of balancing heritage with innovation.
Features of Tissot PRX, Reference No. T137.410.11.091.00:
- Case: 40mm 316L stainless steel
- Dial: Green
- Movement: Quartz
- Strap: Stainless steel
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date.
The Tissot PRX, Reference No. T137.410.11.091.00 is priced at INR 39,000 approximately.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
Reference Number: T137.407.11.041.00
Just months after the successful launch of the quartz-powered PRX, Tissot raised the bar with a mechanical upgrade, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. Retaining the sleek 40mm case, this version introduced the Swiss-made Powermatic 80.111 automatic movement, developed by ETA under the Swatch Group umbrella. Unlike the quartz models, which featured sunburst dials, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 came with a distinct waffle-textured dial offering a refined aesthetic and easy visual distinction. This move elevated the PRX line blending vintage styling with modern mechanical performance and making it even more desirable among watch enthusiasts.
Features of Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, Reference No. T137.407.21.031.00:
- Case: 40mm 316L stainless steel. Water resistance up to 100m
- Dial: Blue.
- Movement: Automatic. Power reserve of 80 hours
- Strap: 316L stainless steel
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, Reference No. T137.407.21.031.00 is priced at INR 73,500 approximately.
2022: The PRX Grows
Reference Number: T137.407.11.041.00
In 2022, the PRX collection grew bolder with the introduction of its first chronograph, the Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph. Expanding from the core three-handed lineup, this model featured a 42mm satin-finished steel case with a slim 14.5mm profile that ensured comfort despite its added complexity. The Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph stood out with stylish “panda” and “reverse panda” dials, complete with subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock and a date at 4:30. Powered by the reliable ETA Valjoux 7753, it offered high-end finishing and a solid 60-hour power reserve, blending retro appeal with modern mechanical strength.
This year, Tissot introduced fresh additions to the PRX lineup including striking bimetal versions that showcase a refined interplay of steel and gold, particularly on the bezel. Alongside these elegant updates, vibrant dial options like mint green brought a refreshing pop of color adding playful versatility to the iconic retro-modern collection.
Features of Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph, Reference No. T137.427.11.041.00:
- Case: 42mm 316L stainless steel. Water resistance up to 100m
- Dial: Blue
- Movement: Valjoux A05.H31 calibre automatic. Power reserve 60 hours
- Strap: Stainless steel
- Functions: Hours, minutes and date, central chronograph hand, 12 hours, 30 minutes and 60 seconds counters
The Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph, Reference No. T137.427.11.041.00 is priced at INR 1,94,500 approximately.
2023: The Year of Experiments and Diversity
The most surprising and divisive addition to the growing PRX family arrived in late summer 2023 with the Tissot PRX Digital. Available in both 35mm and 40mm case sizes, this release boldly ventured beyond the series’ familiar analog territory into the realm of digital tool watches without sacrificing the sleek, sport-luxury aesthetic that defines the PRX. Inspired by the 1970s Tissot Stratos, designed with famed Italian car designer Nuccio Bertone, the PRX Digital pays homage to Tissot’s early experimentation with multifunctional tech. It launched with six references in silver-tone stainless steel and gold PVD finishes, powered by the Swiss-made quartz Caliber DGT-2040. Its sapphire screen toggles between time, dual timezone, stopwatch, alarm, countdown and full date modes, all controlled via three pushers. With a 100m water resistance and strong backlight, it brings utility and retro flair.
2023 also marked a phase of thoughtful diversification for Tissot, as it expanded the PRX line with 35mm Powermatic 80 models being smaller, sleeker yet no less refined. Featuring the iconic waffle-pattern dial previously reserved for the 40mm versions, these timepieces arrived in versatile colors like black, blue, green and even a unisex mother-of-pearl. Housed in slim stainless steel cases, they integrate effortlessly with steel bracelets. Soon after, eye-catching Glacier blue and gold-tone variants completed the lineup.
Features of Tissot PRX Digital, Reference No. T137.463.33.020.00:
- Case: 40mm stainless steel, yellow gold plated. Water resistance up to 100m
- Dial: Yellow
- Movement: Quartz
- Strap: Stainless steel, yellow gold plated
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, dual timezone, stopwatch, alarm, countdown and full date functions
The Tissot PRX Digital, Reference No. T137.463.33.020.00 is priced at INR 45,000 approximately.
2024: The Year of Special Editions
Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer
Reference Number: T137.407.11.041.02
After nearly 50 years, in 2024, Tissot revived the iconic 1970s hero robot Grendizer with the launch of the Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer, an inspired fusion of anime nostalgia and Swiss watchmaking precision. Tissot, renowned for its timeless design, stepped into bold new territory with this themed edition that channels the spirit of vintage 70s minimalism while embracing the energy of Japanese pop culture. The watch maintains the clean PRX silhouette but adds distinctive design cues celebrating Grendizer’s legacy. Further adding to the excitement of the Grendizer fans, the watch comes in a specially designed box, made after Spazer, Grendizer’s UFO
In a market where anime-inspired watches are becoming more common, Tissot’s refined execution stands apart striking a balance between homage and horology. This collectible timepiece isn’t just for fans of the show but it’s for anyone who appreciates a well-designed watch with a compelling story. We have featured this watch in one of our previous blogs, in detail, read more about Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer in all its glory.
Features of Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer, Reference No. T137.407.11.041.02:
- Case: 40mm stainless steel, yellow gold plated. Water resistance up to 100m
- Dial: Yellow
- Movement: Quartz
- Strap: Stainless steel, yellow gold plated
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, dual timezone, stopwatch, alarm, countdown and full date functions
The Tissot PRX UFO Robot Grendizer, Reference No. T137.407.11.041.02 is priced at INR 85,500 approximately.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition
Reference Number: T137.407.33.051.00
At the early part of 2024, Tissot teamed up with NBA star Damian Lillard to unveil the Tissot PRX Automatic Damian Lillard Special Edition, a bold fusion of sport, style and storytelling. Built on the gold PVD PRX Powermatic 80 platform, the watch features a deep black dial embossed with Lillard’s jersey number ‘0’ and a sleek second hand marked with his monogram. The transparent case back reveals his iconic ‘Dame Time’ celebration, while the flange displays deeply personal touches: ‘DAME’ and ‘TIME’ at the top, ‘DDKK’ in tribute to his family, and ‘YKWTII’—“You Know What Time It Is” emphasizing his reputation for clutch performances.
Features of Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition, Reference No. T137.407.33.051.00:
- Case: 40mm, stainless steel, yellow gold PVD, see-through caseback with the ‘Dame Time’ celebration. 100m water resistance
- Dial: Black, embossed Lillard’s jersey number.
- Movement: Automatic. 80 hours power reserve
- Strap: Stainless steel, yellow gold PVD.
- Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Damian Lillard Special Edition, Reference No. T137.407.33.051.00 is priced at INR 85,500 approximately.
Kapoor Watch Co.
When watch lovers are in search of getting their hands on the unique collections of luxury watches in the world of horology, Kapoor Watch Co. stands as the ultimate destination for them. The brand is renowned for its dedication to excellence and authenticity. With a popularity for exceptional service and expertise, we make sure to provide a bespoke shopping experience, making sure each client gets their perfect timepiece. Our state-of-the-art stores showcase an array of watch brands and their collections, including OMEGA, Franck Muller, Tissot, Rado, Bvlgari, Cartier and many more big houses like these. You can also explore the latest Tissot collections and exclusive timepieces at the Tissot Store by Kapoor Watch Company. The Tissot boutique offers exclusive collections and timepieces, including the new launches. Visit the website or the Kapoor Watch Co. Stores and embark on a shopping experience that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Tissot PRX: Frequently Asked Questions:
What does PRX stand for in Tissot PRX?
PR stands for “Precise and Robust,” while X represents 10 ATM (100 meters) water resistance in Roman numerals.
When was the original Tissot PRX launched?
The original design debuted in 1978 as the Tissot Seastar Quartz, which later inspired the PRX series.
What movements are used in the Tissot PRX Automatic models?
Tissot PRX Automatic models use the Powermatic 80 movement, offering an 80-hour power reserve and Nivachron hairspring.
Is the Tissot PRX a good watch for everyday use?
Yes, it’s durable, stylish, and versatile, making it ideal for both casual and formal everyday wear.
Can I change the strap of the Tissot PRX?
Yes, the PRX features interchangeable quick-release bracelets, allowing easy bracelet-strap changes without tools.
Where can I buy the Tissot PRX in India?
You can purchase it by visiting the Authorised Tissot store or the website of the authorized retailers like the Kapoor Watch Co.
