Tissot Adds Fresh Colours To The PR516 38mm Powermatic 80 Line

The collection evolved significantly during the 1960s, embracing a more motorsport-inspired identity that has become its defining characteristic.

Tissot's PR516 is not a newly launched collection; it embodies the brand's racing-focused selection. Initially introduced in 1956, with the PR designation signifying Particulièrement Robustes, the collection had a significant evolution in 1965, resulting in its current appearance. Over time, the PR516 experienced multiple iterations and reemerged in excellent condition in 2024 as a mechanical chronograph, succeeded by an attractive automatic chronograph variant. Additionally, the brand presented an equivalent elegance in a more compact and approachable time-and-date format, featuring a range that significantly impressed us. Tissot, capitalising on the popularity of its initial models, now introduces new editions of the PR516 38mm Powermatic 80 in vibrant new colours.

What information do we possess on the PR516 38mm Powermatic 80? It is a timepiece that resurrects the racing ethos of the 1960s, featuring a modernised design and contemporary technology. As anticipated from Tissot, it is offered at a reasonable price with minimal compromises on quality and specifications. It appears aesthetically pleasing, provides comfort on the wrist, and excels in technical performance as well. However, this is not unprecedented for Tissot. It is, in fact, its specialisation. Chic with an appropriate retro aesthetic, well-balanced, exuding a subtle motorsport essence, characterised by general durability and an effective combination of time-and-date display with automatic movement at a reasonable price.

The initial models, precisely four in number, were all constructed around a singular concept: a compact, well-appointed, aesthetically pleasing timepiece exuding a racing ambiance, blending retro-inspired design with contemporary craftsmanship, a robust and efficient automatic movement, and an array of intelligent features that render it an exceptional value proposition. No fresh developments on the case for this year. The PR516 Powermatic 80 derives many elements from the chronograph models, presented in a more compact 38mm size with a thickness of 11.2mm and a short lug-to-lug measurement of 44mm. The casing is constructed from steel, with predominantly brushed surfaces and elegantly polished lateral bevels. The timepiece features a stationary, black-coated bezel with a 60-minute scale, safeguarded by a mineral crystal inlay that emulates the appearance of old plexiglass bezels. A sapphire crystal safeguards the dial, and the timepiece is water-resistant up to 100 meters.

This year introduces new hues. The initial feature is a timeless matte white dial that contrasts effectively with the black bezel. The luminescent hands and applied markings have received a dark grey coating to improve visibility. The second piece is an attractive and novel interpretation for the collection, including a gradient aqua blue dial complemented by silver-toned applied markers and hands, along with a white date disc (a coordinating blue or perhaps a black disc would have been preferable). In contrast to the initial iterations of 2024, the second hand is now treated the same as the other components of the dial, no longer featuring a vibrant hue.

Visible through the transparent caseback is the well-known Powermatic 80 movement, an advancement of the ETA 2824, including a 3Hz frequency, an enhanced kinetic chain, and a Nivachron hairspring. This yields a comfortable 80-hour power reserve and a movement with exceptional magnetic resistance. The latest models of the PR516 38mm include a stylish and comfortable 5-link Jubilee-style bracelet, characterised by brushed and polished surfaces, and equipped with a butterfly clasp.

The latest editions of the Tissot PR516 38mm Powermatic 80 are now available from the brand and merchants, maintaining the previous price of EUR 745, CHF 685, or USD 825. For additional information, kindly visit www.tissotwatches.com.