Tissot’s Much Anticipated PRX Powermatic 80 35mm is Finally Here

The modern Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is a fabulous watch that combines heritage 1970s design with a great movement and an accessible price point. However, while the design is inspired by the 70s original, the 40mm size is entirely contemporary. For 2023, Tissot are taking the PRX back to its vintage size with the new PRX 35mm Powermatic 80. To be honest, the entire watch world knew this release has been on the cards for a while and it’s finally here.

These days we tend to consider any watch below 38mm to be on the small side but that’s because our perception has been warped by the current popularity of big watches. Once upon a time, smaller watches were the norm. Interestingly, in the past year or two, the dominance of big watches in the modern psyche has started to be challenged and slowly sizes have been trending downwards. Which is to say a 35mm watch is perfectly in keeping with modern tastes despite being a reference to popular styles from close to 50 years ago.

Stylistically, the updated case is very much just a miniaturised version of the current model. Brushed, flat surfaces in a tonneau shape adorned with a polished bezel in stainless steel. In keeping with its sporty style, the piece flows into a matching steel integrated bracelet. It’s a popular design and being 35mm doesn’t change that.

As for the dials, the PRX 35mm Powermatic 80 is available with four colours. There’s black, dark blue, dark green and white mother-of-pearl, each presented on an embossed waffle texture. It’s a little bit of a shame that we don’t have any of the more bright and exciting colours that we’ve seen on the PRX before, such as the ice blue or mint green but perhaps there’s room for the collection to expand in future.

Under the surface we have, no surprises here, the Tissot Powermatic 80 automatic movement. It’s a really solid movement with a great 80-hour power reserve, a Nivachron balance hairspring and hours, minutes, seconds and date functions. It is without question one of the best value for money calibres on the market.

Speaking of value, it’s priced at £610 for the black, blue and green editions and £650 for the white mother-of-pearl version. That makes them the same price as the 40mm editions, which is a little odd considering the dramatic size difference and the fact the 35mm piece requires less material. But then, the value is already fantastic so it’s not worth dwelling on. What matters is that the PRX 35mm Powermatic 80 will enhance the wearability of the piece and make it appeal to a wider audience.