ReviewBigger And Bolder: The Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph

The Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph, in two versions—the ‘reverse panda’ dial in blue and a silver hue, a ‘panda’ dial in silvery and black—is a strong continuation of the tonneau or barrel shape of the brand’s iconic 1978 series, revived in 2021. Both models are a departure from Tissot’s other offerings, featuring this collection’s slim-built cases, with large dials and raised bezel, along with an integrated bracelet. They also represent the Swiss watchmakers’ ‘PRX’—an acronym for ‘precise’, ‘robust’, and ‘10’ (X in Roman numerals) for its 10-bar water resistance.

A Heftier PRX

Sized at 42mm, lug-to-lug 41.5mm, and 14.5mm in thickness, the steel tonneau case, with a raised bezel, the PRX Chronograph is top-heavy with a protruding rear, which is unlike other Tissot PRXs watches. For instance, the recently unveiled Powermatic 80 version measures 10.9mm. However, this is the only stylistic route Tissot had in order to incorporate the Valjoux A05.H31 automatic chronograph movement within the case.

The rotor of the Valjoux A05.H31 movement, based on the Valjoux classic automatic chronograph calibre 7753—is viewable through the caseback

The Valjoux A05.H31 mechanism offers a 60-hour power reserve

The rotor of this movement, based on the Valjoux classic automatic chronograph calibre 7753—is viewable through the display caseback, and helps the watch to store a 60-hour power reserve. This mechanism also operates the trinity of sub dials at three, six and nine o’clock—30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters and running seconds, respectively. Two rectangle pushers on the right side of the case operate the sub-dials, which are surrounded by grooved rings that enhance depth perception and visual clarity.

Two rectangle pushers on the right side of the case operate the sub-dials

The dial has a trinity of sub-dials at three, six and nine o’clock—30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters and running seconds

Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph Shop the Collection

Enhanced Mechanical Functionality

Embedded on the left side of the case at 10 o’clock is the quick-set date button. To modify the date, tug at the crown and push the left button till the right day jumps up in the 4:30 date aperture. The indices and hands glow-in-the-dark owing to the Super-LumiNova they carry.

Each model—primarily the white-and-blue dial—presents a grainy, vertical brushing that creates good contrast against other matt and mirror finishing seen on the timepiece. The entire display is protected by a glass in scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The finishing touch is one of the collection’s key features.

The Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph models present a grainy, vertical brushing that creates good contrast against other matt and mirror finishing seen on the timepiece

Attached to the tonneau case is the integrated bracelet in steel with lugs that extend into single-piece links. This satin-brushed bracelet with chamfered edges gradually tapers to end in a butterfly clasp.