Earlier this yr, Tissot launched a revised model of its traditional Sixties watch, the PR516 Chronograph Mechanical. Trendy with simply the fitting retro contact, well-proportioned, that includes a hand-wound motion and provided at an accessible value, it bought very constructive reactions from the watch neighborhood – and from us, too. Lo and behold, one other mannequin is handled to the identical profitable method, this time in a traditional time-and-date model with much more affordability however nonetheless with an excellent fashionable look. Right here’s the brand new Tissot PR516 Powermatic 80, which might nicely be one other house run.
The method that has been used to create the PR516 Chronograph Mechanical has not modified a lot within the context of this time-and-date Powermatic 80 mannequin. Nonetheless named after a 1956 assortment, the Particulièrement Robuste, for notably strong (PR), the mannequin is especially recognized below its 1965 form, designed by Lucien Gurtner, with its distinctive hollowed metal bracelet. Whereas this fashion has already been revived, the present PR516 chronograph and the brand new computerized PR516 are, nonetheless, modelled after later editions with a sportier design.
Following the well-received chronograph mannequin, Tissot is again with a traditional computerized PR516 Powermatic 80 – with a traditional method for the model: a sporty case, a mixture of retro-inspired design with fashionable building and proportions, a strong and economical computerized motion and sufficient intelligent options to make it a terrific worth proposition. And sure, the design is cool, too, little question about it. Design-wise, this new time-and-date version of the Tissot PR516 retains a lot of the cues discovered within the chrono, with up to date proportions. The case, with its straight flanks and nearly built-in lugs, has a spot-on 38mm diameter and about 44mm in size. Thickness: a really first rate 11.2mm.
The case is product of metal, with largely brushed surfaces and good polished lateral bevels. Just like the hand-wound chronograph, it’s topped by a set and black-coated bezel with a 60-minute scale protected by a mineral crystal insert, mimicking the look of classic plexiglass bezels. A sapphire crystal with AR coating protects the dial, whereas a see-through caseback presents a view of the motion (not completely essential, however nice for newcomers to mechanical watches, one of many model’s targets…) And there’s additionally a reasonably first rate 100m depth score, with a traditional push-pull crown.
The dial of this PR516 Powermatic 80 is clearly sleeker than its chronograph counterpart however nonetheless retains sufficient Nineteen Seventies character. The signature rectangular and retro-styled fingers have been retained however now run over a less complicated dial with utilized luminous markers and a date window. The PR516 Powermatic 80 point out is perhaps a bit too current, however the remainder, together with the colored seconds hand with out counterweight (surprisingly cool), is good. The watch is out there in a number of variations, together with a traditional black dial/bezel with crimson seconds and metal bracelet, a blue dial/bezel with blue leather-based strap, a black dial/bezel with yellow seconds and brown leather-based strap and a silver dial with PVD gold two-tone impact on a bracelet. The black-on-steel mannequin right here is, unquestionably, probably the most interesting version with its casual-sporty apparel, its very legible matte black dial and a timeless look.
Contained in the case is the traditional Powermatic 80 motion, an evolution of the ETA 2824 with an prolonged energy reserve (80 hours), a decreased 3Hz frequency and a Nivachron steadiness spring. Whether or not you go for a metal bracelet or a leather-based strap, each are outfitted with quick-release spring bars. The model we had for this text, with its multi-link bracelet, was not solely cool-looking with a classic aptitude but in addition fairly comfy, the bracelet feeling each stable and versatile. The triple-folding clasp is nothing distinctive however does the job and appears good too.
Now a part of the everlasting assortment and out there from the model, the brand new Tissot PR516 Powermatic 80 seems like yet one more profitable mixture of retro fashion, fashionable options and real accessibility. Certainly, this new mannequin begins at EUR 675 on a leather-based strap, EUR 745 on a metal bracelet and EUR 825 for the two-tone mannequin (in all probability our least favorite).
For extra particulars, please go to www.tissotwatches.com.
