ReviewTissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second: Introducing A Value-Packed Engineering Marvel

Baselworld 2016 saw an array of extraordinary timepieces that took the watch world by storm. From high-end luxury timepieces like Rolex to mid-level affordable luxury watches like Citizen, Baselworld 2016 was a basket of pleasant surprises. Out of the many, the one watch that took me most by surprise was the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second or widely known as Tissot Triple Seconds.

The world knows Tissot as the ultimate brand that manufactures and produces quality timepieces with a unique sporty appeal. It is a given that the strength of the brand lies in mainstream watches that are robustly built. A trustworthy brand that offers immaculate quality within the realm of affordable watches. The 2016 Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is exactly that and a little bit more! Read on to find out:

A Busy Yet Balanced Dial:

One look at the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second and you immediately notice the automotive-inspired design details. The first thing you notice are the black, industrially brushed three cut-outs (more on that later) on the dial, dividing the dial into three “spokes” or sections. Busy yet balanced to perfection, each “spoke” of the dial displays just the right amount of text and features. The black dial has a horizontal striped pattern that is similar to the Cotes de Geneve one, which adds more character to the watch.

The steep white chapter ring around the outer edge of the dial creates a stark contrast against the all-black dial and ceramic bezel. The black ceramic bezel also houses a contrasting red under layer that adds a dash of colour and makes the dial stand out when observed from an angle. The date aperture located at 5 o’clock mirrors the “PRS516” branding at 8 o’clock perfectly, creating a balanced visual appeal. The unusual placement of the features works wonders in creating a visually harmonious dial.

The centrally mounted hour and minute hands are in perfect symmetry with the floating applied hour indices. Both the hands and indices are polished and filled with luminescent materials. A dial that might appear ordinary at first glance, a change in angle results in a stunning revelation of the depths and different dimensions of the dial.

An Interesting Feature: Running seconds divided into three cutaways

We all know that most watches that are automotive or racing-inspired usually feature a chronograph function. While the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second might give you an impression of offering that function, it actually does not! Take a closer look and notice the three cutaways (which are the most attractive feature) on the dial.

The three sub-dials are not chronograph counters but a single running seconds counter divided into three increments with a 20- second sweep each. Hence, the first 20 seconds of a minute are displayed on the top right dial, the next 20-second sweep is located at 6 0’clock and the last 20 seconds are displayed at the top left section of the dial.

While I do agree that it does not add a huge value of functionality but it is fun and unique. The positioning of the cut-outs resembling a steering wheel and a tachometric sweep effect of the seconds hand further adds to the watch’s automotive design element.

Stainless steel case with black ceramic bezel & see-through caseback:

The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is crafted with a vision to create a purely modern sports watch and it has been successful. The 42mm stainless steel case is shaped perfectly with brushed sides and downturned lugs. The sharply undercut lugs provide a snug fit while also easing the wearability of the considerable (46mm) size of the case. The case features a black ceramic bezel that is not just a great addition but also a value proposition for a watch priced in this range. The polished stainless steel crown on the side of the case is engraved with the Tissot “Square T” emblem.

Turn the watch over and witness the intricate, albeit, partial workings of the movement. The trademarked PRS 516 steering wheel motif inspired by a pioneer sports car is distinctive. While it does cover the remaining part of the movements from being seen, the presence of the motif is neither intrusive nor odd. A win-win for all!

An iconic movement modified especially for this watch:

With a watch as unique as the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second, it should come as no surprise for the inner workings of the timepiece to be different. The heart of the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second belongs to the ETA2825-2. It is a modified version of the 2824 which in itself is a solid movement to base a watch on. Altered to create the triple seconds complication, the ETA 2825-2 offers a little more for such an affordable timepiece.

Strap Options & Wearability Quotient:

The 46mm stainless steel case is attached to a black leather big-hole rally strap that exudes versatility and sportiness. The leather strap is soft and thickly padded to ensure comfort on the wrist. The timepiece can be combined perfectly with a variety of outfits irrespective of where you are. Another interesting feature is the beautifully designed butterfly deployant buckle. The lightweight, polished deployant is deeply engraved with the Tissot “Square T” emblem.

In terms of wearability, the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is a big watch. While it does have a massive presence on the wrist, given its 42mm case size, it never feels oversized when worn. The watch sits comfortably on the wrist, irrespective of the wrist size.

What makes this watch so interesting?

As the biggest watchmaker in Switzerland by volume, it is very easy to forget many of Tissot’s amazing creations. However, the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is a watch you cannot forget! Unlike many of the sporty, racing-inspired watches that feature a chronograph, Tissot has chosen to overlook it. This detail has resulted in making the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second a uniquely different, yet most appealing timepiece. The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is a watch that is “different enough to be interesting but still eminently affordable”.

Prices and Availability:

The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second is moderately priced at Rs 63,600 and is now available at Ethos Watch Boutiques.

Did you like the triple seconds feature on this watch? What did you like most about the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Small Second ? Let us know in the comments section below.