The World of Tissot Watches
To introduce you to some of their stunning designs, we’ve selected some of our favourite Tissot watches and we’ll also answer some frequently asked questions, such as ‘where are Tissot watches made?’, ‘who makes Tissot watches?’ and ‘how good are Tissot watches?’ Discover the world of Tissot here.
22 FEBRUARY 2021 | EDITOR - H. SAMUEL
Luxury watch brands such as Rolex, Omega or TAG Heuer are often considered to be the ultimate in glamourous Swiss-made watches. But many experts would say that Tissot has been producing some of the finest, most affordable Swiss luxury watches for the last 160 years. Not only are Tissot designs stylish, sophisticated, and expertly made, but with models starting from a couple of hundred pounds, they’re also excellent value for money.
Tissot Watches: A History
Tissot was founded in Switzerland in 1853 by Charles-Félicien Tissot and his son Charles-Émile. Initially, the business assembled pocket watches, as wristwatches hadn't yet been invented. However, by the start of the 1900s, Tissot was producing high-quality wristwatches, with some designs even made of gold and set with diamonds. The watches were in great demand and one of the biggest stars of the time, Sarah Bernhardt, proudly wore a Tissot watch.
With their designs highly sought-after, particularly in America and Russia, and with a rapidly growing reputation for technical innovation, Tissot needed to expand. This led to a new Tissot factory being constructed in Le Locle, Switzerland. By 1917, Tissot was expertly producing their own watch movements and other parts in house, which allowed them to offer much more affordable timepieces than their competitors. A credit to their design capability, Tissot also created the world’s first non-magnetic wristwatch.
To survive the Great Depression, two Swiss watchmaking powerhouses, Tissot and Omega, decided to merge and form SSIH. However, both brands continued to produce and sell watches under their own names. In 1969, Japanese brand Seiko revealed the very first quartz movement watch and the Swiss watch industry, famed for its exceptional quality mechanical watches, quickly started to lose market dominance.
In order to compete with these extremely accurate battery-powered designs that could be produced for a fraction of the cost, SSIH merged again. The new company went by the name ‘The Swatch Group’, but, to this day, Tissot, Omega and its other subsidiaries continue to manufacture and sell under their own brand names.
Where are Tissot Watches Made?
To those wondering ‘are Tissot watches made in Switzerland?’, the answer is yes. All Tissot watches are still expertly manufactured in Switzerland, and their headquarters remain in the small Swiss mountain town of Le Locle. All ‘Swiss-made’ watches have to meet exacting industry standards, and Tissot watches are a credit to the industry. Incredibly precise, beautifully crafted, and stylishly designed, Tissot’s range of mechanical and quartz watches is undeniably impressive.
Who Makes Tissot Watches?
After becoming part of The Swatch Group, Tissot has gone from strength to strength, combining new, innovative technology with their famous design prowess and Swiss watchmaking heritage. The result is cost-effective, stylish and extremely precise timepieces that appeal to a wide range of people – from the young and trendy looking for a fashion watch to those after a classic, sophisticated timepiece that is suitable for all occasions.
People often wonder what is the difference between Tissot and Mathey-Tissot watches, and the simple fact is they are entirely separate and unrelated brands. It just so happens that the founders of both companies shared the same surname!
Some of our Favourite Tissot Watches
The Tissot collection at H.Samuel offers a wide range of men’s Tissot watches, and Tissot watches for women, including quartz movement designs, beautifully crafted automatic mechanical watches, and a range of the latest T-Touch smartwatches. So, whether you are after a statement, sporty smartwatch, or a sleek classic style, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are some collections that we’d suggest you take a closer look at:
Tissot Seastar
Tissot’s interpretation of the classic diver’s watch is available in two versions. The Seastar 1000 Chronograph has a 3-dial display and is powered by a Swiss quartz movement. In contrast, the Seastar 1000 features an automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve and a single, understated date window. Both models are water-resistant to 300m and feature a unidirectional ceramic bezel, so make no mistake, these are impressive and highly functional diving watches that are as stylish as they are robust. Available with a sleek stainless-steel bracelet or tough black rubber strap, the Seastar is a sophisticated luxe timepiece.
Tissot Gentlemen
This model really does live up to its name. Gentleman watches are the ideal companion for any modern man and are versatile and durable enough for all occasions. Available with a leather or stainless-steel bracelet strap, and the choice of Swiss quartz movement or a top of the range Powermatic 80 mechanical movement, this collection is full of the ultimate all-rounders.
Tissot Chrono XL
The Chrono XL boasts a chronograph function, which means it can be used as a stopwatch, as well as a statement 45mm case, making it one of the largest watches in the Tissot collection. This stylish model also has three sub-dials for ultimate precision, as well as a funky date window positioned at the 4 o’clock mark. The range includes some bold colour combos, including a green dial and two-tone metal bracelet, a gold-tone bracelet with black dial, and a particularly striking black case with a brown leather strap. This sports-luxe timepiece is high-quality Swiss technology at an unbeatable price.
Tissot T-Touch
The T-Touch is an outstanding modern smartwatch that boasts all the connectivity and functions you’d expect from a top brand. The T-Touch is full of surprises, from its unique and sustainable solar power function that means it can go up to 6 months without needing a charge, to its incredibly tough, all-terrain design – this is Swiss engineering at its brilliant best.
Tissot Everytime
Another gorgeous range, the Everytime collection is sleek, understated and oozes traditional Swiss charm. Named for its versatile nature, the Everytime is perfect for every occasion. The 30mm women's models are available with a choice of silver, two-tone or rose gold bracelet, or a timeless black leather strap. The men's collection features a 38mm face with a quartz movement, or a 40mm case with an automatic movement. The Everytime is a minimalistic Swiss classic.
Discover More of Tissot with H.Samuel
There's no doubting the fact that Tissot produces outstanding Swiss watches at incredibly competitive prices. So, if you’re looking for the perfect luxury watch for yourself, or the ideal gift for a loved one, a Tissot watch won’t fail to impress. If you’d like to discuss any specific products or collections in more detail, or you need a hand finding the perfect model to suit your style and budget, book a free virtual or in-store appointment with one of our friendly experts who’ll be happy to help.