The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 green offers a fresh take on this top value proposition
Borna BošnjakGreen has been the colour dominating the watch world in recent years, despite a particular shade of blue looking to usurp its throne towards the end of last year. Thus, it only makes sense for Tissot to release its hottest model in the hottest colour. We got hands on with the PRX Powermatic 80 green, as we wanted to see how the rich, dark colour compares to the trio introduced in 2021. Finally, as an authorised dealer of Tissot, we’re happy to offer the PRX in the Time+Tide shop for deliveries in Australia.
Honeycomb, but make it green
To appreciate the colour on any PRX dial fully, I always believed you’d have to see it in person. The above image, however, shows the light and shadow play that comes from the dial topography. The raised surfaces of the circularly grained squares of the Clous de Paris finish appear to emanate from the inky pool of dark green below. Silver is the main highlight, found in the hands, indices and date window frame. A detail that I appreciate is the alignment of the indices and date window. Note the 3 o’clock index that splits the stamped dial pattern directly down the middle.
Zooming out, we see the deep green dial also has a sunburst pattern applied to it. While composed of three different finishes and a colour that, if not applied well, can be quite unflattering, it all works well here. Subtle yet sultry, and with real presence. The exercise in restraint from excessive text is a valued one, with only four well-balanced lines, excluding Swiss Made on either side of the 6 o’clock index.
Brushing, facets and highlights
The PRX signature is the killer combo of the case and bracelet. We’ve covered and described it many a time, so only a brief overview here. The shot above gives you a good glimpse at the vertical brushing that is consistent from the top of the case over angled lugs and to the bracelet links. To break up the matte steel and bring a bit of bling, Tissot uses highly polished chamfers on the side of the case and ends of the links as well as the smooth, sloping bezel.
The 40mm case wears slim at only 10.9mm, though no PRX review is complete without mentioning the non-articulating first lug, which gives the watch a wide-spanning 51mm lug-to-lug width. This won’t be a concern for most, as the bracelet articulates beautifully, but those with smaller than average wrists may see some gaps below the lugs. The screw-down display caseback gives it a 100-metre water resistance, so there’s no reason why the PRX couldn’t take on some sportier activities as well.
Movement is unchanged, rightfully so
The venerable Powermatic 80 that powers so many value-oriented Swatch Group offerings continues to feature in the PRX automatic. With a power reserve of 80 hours, it’s what we like to call “weekend proof”. Should you wear the PRX as your Monday to Friday, nine to five, and choose to wear a beater for weekend activities, the Tissot will tick come Monday morning. It’s humbly decorated with a laser-engraved “waves of time” pattern visible through the open caseback.
The verdict
More options is rarely a negative, especially when the option is as nice as this. The Tissot PRX remains the value proposition it always was, and an excellent modern take on vintage inspiration. While an open caseback isn’t crucial on many entry-level automatics, especially if a closed one could slim the watch down even further. However, as this will be the first “nice” watch for many, giving them a look into the inner workings may be just the thing to inspire a true love of watches, and that can only be a positive.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 green pricing and availability:
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 green is available from the Time+Tide shop for deliveries in Australia. Price: $1,050 AUD
| Brand | Tissot |
| Model | PRX Powermatic 80 |
| Ref. Number | T137.407.11.091.00 |
| Case Dimensions | 40mm x 10.9mm, 51mm effective lug-to-lug |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 100 metres |
| Dial | Green, honeycomb texture dial |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal |
| Strap | Integrated stainless steel bracelet, quick-release spring bars |
| Movement | Powermatic 80.111, automatic, 80-hour power reserve |
| Price | $1,050 AUD |