Tissot has been around for several decades. So, there’s no question that many people respect the brand. It also carries an experience worth knowing in the watch manufacturing history. However, do Tissot watches hold their value?
They may have good value retention with their Swiss manufacturing roots and COSC-certified movements. But do they? If they don’t, does it matter at all?
All these are what we’re going to learn in this Tissot buying guide.
Overview of the Tissot Brand
Many often consider Tissot as an entry-level Swiss luxury watch brand. The Swatch Group owns the brand. They also own and manufacture the most extensive commercial wristwatch brands worldwide.
Additionally, the Swatch Group classified Tissot watches for the mid-range market. So, you can expect their price range below other Swiss brands like Rolex, Omega, and Longines.
Moreover, Swiss movements power Tissot watches. These movements are Swiss-made and have been historically in Switzerland for innovation.
Like other big-name Swiss luxury watch brands, it traces its history back to the 1800s. Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son Charles-Emile created Tissot watches. His son left for Russia and sold their timepieces throughout the Russian empire.
From then on, the brand became popular in the watch world.
So, Do Tissot Watches Hold Their Value?
Except for the vintage and limited edition watches desirable for many watch collectors, Tissot watches tend to hold their value poorly. It may even cost you a couple of hundred dollars after five years or so when you get it serviced.
Although made in Switzerland under strict conditions and of good quality, these watches don’t handle drops well. Instead, a waist-height drop to a floor may even easily lead to a full service.
But then again, profitability and collectibility are not equal.
Unlike other Swiss watch brands, most Tissot watches will not yield a profit after a few years. However, many love collecting watches from this brand because of Tissot’s reputation for watchmaking excellence. Plus, they have many designs for both men and women.
Moreover, these watches are affordably priced and make a brilliant everyday watch.
They’re so popular that many people spotted on the wrists of celebrities, like Angelina Jolie in the movie Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Simon Pegg in the film Mission Impossible. More prominent personalities have also made public appearances wearing a Tissot watch other than these two.
In terms of quality, Tissot watches are water resistant to 30, 50, 100, 150, and 200 meters, as indicated in the case back. Tissot also has chronometer watches that obtained a COSC certificate, the gold standard in precision timekeeping.
Tissot and Seiko Watches: Similarities and Differences
Many people often compare Tissot to Seiko as both have thin designs, have fine quartz watches in their product lines, and are ideal for everyday use.
Furthermore, both brands are globally recognized for producing high-quality watches. For over 100 years, they are also known for reliability, excellence, and precision. Each has a unique feel and look, impressive performance, a long history in watchmaking, and employs the highest quality materials in their watches.
They also have notable differences, of course. Seiko is a luxury brand from Japan, while Tissot is from Switzerland.
Another thing that Tissot watches are known for is their timeless designs. For example, its PRX 40 205 was crafted as a contemporary demonstration of the 1960s design.
Furthermore, Tissot offers plenty for every watch enthusiast, from solar-powered to quartz and elegant dress watches to vintage watches.
We highlighted our top picks below if you’re looking for the best Tissot watches to invest your money in. We included affordable models to show that the brand can deliver quality timekeeping even when the budget is limited.
4 Best Tissot Watches to Buy in 2023
1. Tissot T-Sport Chrono XL
The first watch that gathered interest among watch enthusiasts is the Tissot T-Sport Chrono XL.
A quartz movement powers this 45mm watch. It also features an interchangeable quick-release bracelet and scratch-resistant sapphire glass. Other features of this watch include three sub-dials, a date aperture, and a chronograph.
Moreover, the black stainless steel case protects the dial and houses the quartz movement. Then, it is completed with a classic brown strap that can match any outfit. As a result, it makes an excellent watch for those who love an elegant, sporty chronograph with Swiss technology.
2. Tissot Seastar 2000
One of the finest offerings of Tissot in the watch industry, this Tissot Seastar 2000 is a certified diver’s watch (ISO 6424).
It is a highly technical watch that works well whether you take it below the surface of the sea or into the urban jungle. It is also water-resistant for up to 60 bar (600 m / 2000 ft), an ideal choice for amateur and professional divers.
Furthermore, it has a see-through case back for watch lovers who enjoy looking at the inner workings of wristwatches.
3. Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80
This model was named after Le Locle, Switzerland, where they founded Tissot in 1853. It shows exquisite elegance with details, including the traditional Le Locle signature with a picture of classically chic and Roman numerals. Additionally, this is one of Tissot’s flagship models.
Moreover, the design’s inspiration came from the clock tower in Le Locle. Meanwhile, the guilloche dial features a rose gold index and a date aperture. True to the brand’s traditions of timekeeping, a classic Swiss automatic movement powers this model.
It is also water resistant for up to 3 bar (100 ft. or 30 meters), has a power reserve of up to 80 hours, and has a black dial. With all these features at a more affordable price than other Swiss watches, you get unmatched value.
4. Tissot T-Lady Flamingo
This ultra-feminine Tissot T-Lady Flamingo makes a great addition to the women’s watch collection. It is both functional and reliable, complemented by scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
It also features a white mother-of-pearl dial that is durable and lustrous. The silver color of the hands and hour markers also matches the 316L stainless steel case and embossed cow leather band.
Yet, the beauty of this timepiece doesn’t distract from the quartz movement that powers it. The T-Lady Flamingo is not just eye-catching; it’s reliable too. It also comes with a two-tone bracelet model.
People Also Ask: FAQs About Tissot Watches
Is Tissot a luxury watch brand?
Yes, it is a Swiss luxury watch brand. Its watches include scratch-resistance sapphire, top-notch materials, and precious stone glasses.
Are Tissot watches good value?
Yes, Tissot prices their watches relatively, considering their great quality in nature. They make an excellent choice for a watch collection. Tissot watches include interwoven gems crafted in dials, making them a long-term investment.
How many years does a Tissot watch last?
Tissot recommends having their watches serviced by their official service center every four to five years. An original Tissot battery can last for up to two years. However, the watch can last five to 10 years, depending on how well you take care of it.
There’s no question that Tissot uses high-quality materials and has good build quality. They also manufacture mechanical, digital, quartz, and smartwatches. Many people admire their mechanical watches for their craftsmanship.
Is Tissot entry-level luxury?
Yes, it is. Many people know Tissot as an entry-level Swiss luxury watch brand in the watch industry. Additionally, they can reduce their watch’s price lower than the typical high-end luxury watch, like Rolex and Audemars Piguet.
Is Tissot or Seiko better?
Both watch brands have unique strengths. Tissot focuses more on high-end sports watches, while Seiko focuses on exquisite dress watches. Tissot has twice as long as Seiko, making it a better option if you prefer timepieces with long battery life.
How much do Tissot watches cost?
Tissot watches cost around US$1,300 to $3,200. The price appreciates, especially those with gold material and mechanical or automatic movement.
Pre-owned and vintage watches on the secondary watch market vary from hundred dollars to several thousand. The price changes, depending on rarity, materials, and condition.
The Bottom line: Are Tissot Watches Worth It?
Definitely, yes. Tissot watches are stylish, elegant, and of good quality, without the super expensive price tag you see in other luxury watches.
Thus, it is known for its “gold value at silver price” mission statement.
While Tissot watches may not hold their value well, they are still worth buying. It is a Swiss luxury brand; they price their timepieces reasonably, they use high-quality materials, and you can style them for any occasion.
People who genuinely love watches wouldn’t pay much attention to whether the wristwatch they want to buy will be a good deal or depreciate. Doing this limits them from purchasing a timepiece they genuinely enjoy and like.
So, overall, Tissot watches are excellent choices for those looking for a reliable companion for everyday use. They also offer versatility, robustness, timelessness, reliability, and precision, making them a good investment.
If you like this review, please read our other reviews at EvesWatch.com.
Recommended For You:
My name is Eve Acosta and I’m the person behind this site. Watches are what get me ticking ;).
No, but seriously, I just love watches, I have over 30 myself. It’s an obsession of mine, which is why my husband recommended me to put my hobby into some good use and build this site – so I did.
My passion for timepieces came from the fact that my parents own a small chain of shops selling timepieces. I’ve worked at the shop since I was 11 and fell in love with the merchandise.
