Since its launch in 2021, Tissot's PRX collection has never stopped surprising and growing. This series is one of the most accessible and compelling Swiss-made sporty-chic watches with integrated Bracelet, has become a commercial hit and is offered in a variety of colors, sizes, complications and materials. From classic 40mm steel models to 35mm gold PVD models to more eye-catching chronographs, there's plenty to choose from. Today, Tissot has decided to surprise us, and not just a little. We are seeing two important developments: first, a new option for a mid-sized 38mm body; Secondly, there are variants made of titanium and damascus steel. In this article we tell you all about the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 38mm Damascus Steel and 38mm Titanium, along with our latest video.
The further development of the PRX collection
The PRX collection made its debut in 2021 and let's be clear: it hasn't gone unnoticed. The collection was an immediate success as it offered the style of an integrated design sports watch at a very reasonable price. For the introductory price of just 650 euros, there was a stainless steel watch with an integrated bracelet, a waffle dial in black, blue or silver and an automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve. Objectively speaking, it was a pretty impressive offering.
Above and below: the 40mm and 35mm versions of the Tissot PRX Powermatic
The introductory collection was 40mm in diameter, a size that left many people wanting something smaller, especially since the lug-to-lug measurement wasn't particularly compact. Two years later, Tissot launched the PRX Powermatic (the automatic model) with a 35mm case, adding a smaller (too small…?) offering to the already large collection. Currently, the PRX Powermatic collection includes well over 30 references, including several limited editions and a quartet of chronographs (with the exception of the quartz series). Tissot has experimented with different materials and last year, for example, introduced a PRX with a solid gold bezel or a forged carbon version. And although prices have increased slightly since its launch, it still offers excellent value for money.
The new PRX Powermatic 38 mm
With such a diverse collection, what was left for the PRX? Well, a new mid-sized option. Let's remember our article comparing the 40mm and 35mm versions. On paper, the PRX Powermatic 40mm seems to be the right option for men, as this diameter is often the golden number for men's watches. However, keep in mind that the lug-to-lug length of the PRX is… long. In fact, the first link of the bracelet is not movable and contributes to the overall length of 51.5 mm. Admittedly not small.
The 40mm edition of the PRX Powermatic (steel case, ice blue or mint green dial) alongside the new 38mm edition (titanium case, gray dial)
In response to demand for a smaller version, Tissot introduced the PRX Powermatic 35 mm. Again, this seemed like a great unisex option on paper, suitable for both men and women. And while the latter is true, the 35mm PRX feels a bit dainty on a male wrist. It somehow loses the boldness of its design and becomes a bit too dainty. There was room for something in between. And that's what's happening today with the new Tissot PRX Powermatic 38mm. However, you don't yet have the option of a classic steel case and bracelet. Don't worry, the two materials chosen by Tissot are really something special.
So we have a new 38mm diameter for the PRX. What does this mean for the rest of the watch? Well, as far as the design goes, nothing has actually changed and we're still looking at the same recipe. Tonneau-shaped central case, raised round bezel, beautifully integrated bracelet or band that follows the lines of the case, 100 m water resistance, sapphire crystal on the front, transparent glass on the back. The thickness is also unchanged compared to the 40mm and 35mm editions and is 11.3mm. What has changed is the measurement from tab to tab. Again, we have to distinguish between what Tissot announces – 43.2 mm, excluding the fixed first link – and the reality that we measured – 49.2 mm for the titanium edition, including the first, non-pivoting link of the bracelet.
On the wrist, the new PRX Powermatic 38mm feels like the perfect size. Compact enough to feel comfortable, yet visually present to provide a strong look and sportier feel. However, it could be a little slimmer, but that applies to all members of the collection. Based on our experience with PRXs, the 38mm diameter is now our preferred option in MONOCHROME.
The PRX made of… Damascus steel
While the design and specifications are well known, the material Tissot chose for its new PRX Powermatic 38mm is anything but classic. In fact, it's a complete surprise that such a mainstream entry-level brand would use a niche and rare material like Damascus steel. Kudos to Tissot for their courage, even more so than the already surprising forged carbon model. But what is Damascus steel? This material may not be widely known, but it is made up of several types of steel that are forged together into intricate and unique patterns. And when I say “unique,” I mean it literally, because no matter how you cut a Damascus steel bar, no two pieces are the same.
Damascus steel in watchmaking is largely the domain of a Swedish brand called GoS Watches, known as a specialist in this material. Back to the PRX: This unusual material is used not only for the case, but also for the bezel, the dial and the pin buckle. The result is definitely impressive, even if it may not be for everyone. However, it shows the versatility of the PRX. No matter what it is made of, it retains its strong and thoroughly appealing character.
With such complex (and again, unique to each watch) patterns on the dial, the PRX's classic waffle pattern is not necessary. The dial is made of brushed damascus steel with a smooth texture. There are also black nickel-plated indexes and hands, all with Super-LumiNova. The Tissot PRX Powermatic 38mm in Damascus steel comes with a black grained leather strap that attaches neatly to the male end link and secures with a Damascus steel tang buckle. It is published as part of the permanent collection.
The PRX Powermatic 38 mm made of titanium
As if this Damascus steel wasn't enough, Tissot is also introducing two very cool and lightweight editions: the PRX Powermatic 38 mm in titanium. Since it's made of grade 2 titanium, you won't notice anything that's changed at first. The dimensions are those given above, and the shape, appearance and finish are all identical to a steel model, only with perhaps a slightly darker shade of material. Basically it is. And yes, it may be for the best. The PRX Titanium maintains the same thickness and water resistance. The finish on the case and bracelet is also identical, with brushed surfaces and polished accents on the bezel and case sides.
But once you hold this new titanium edition of the PRX, you immediately notice the difference in weight. In fact, titanium is about 35% lighter than traditional steel, so this PRX saves quite a bit of weight. This all-titanium PRX weighs 83 grams, which can vary slightly depending on the length of the bracelet, while the forged carbon PRX weighs 74 grams. And remember that the latter came on a rubber strap, while the titanium PRX is worn on a matching titanium bracelet with folding clasp and quick release system (although without micro-adjustment).
The dial of the PRX Powermatic 38mm Titanium retains the classic waffle pattern that has been featured on steel models since the collection's launch. Here we have two options. The first is a classic blue (not photographed) with silver applied markers and hands. The other option, a nice one to be honest, is this monochromatic version with a gray dial to match the color of the titanium alloy. The tone-on-tone effect is only broken up by gold-colored hands and markers, adding some warmth to the design. These will also be published as part of the permanent collection and will be available immediately.
Classic caliber Powermatic 80
There are no surprises inside these new PRX 38mm Damascus steel and 38mm titanium watches. We have the well-known Powermatic 80 movement, also known as caliber ETA C07.11. An evolution of the ETA 2824, it has been redesigned with a new kinetic chain and improved barrel, increasing the power reserve to a solid 80 hours, while the frequency has been slowed to 3 Hz. To counteract magnetism, it has a Nivachron hairspring and the movement is visible through the caseback. I feel like Tissot missed the opportunity to include a Damascus steel rotor, but at this price we can't complain too much.
Thoughts, availability and price
There's no denying that the PRX collection is a huge success, and that's partly due to its simplicity and honesty. This simplicity also allows Tissot to play with colors and materials and, in turn, with sizes. What was already very good from the start has evolved into something all-round excellent in these two new 38mm models. Yes, there are cheaper damask or titanium watches, but made in Switzerland and of this quality? This drastically limits the playing field.
Obviously, these exotic new materials have an impact on the price of the PRX. The forged carbon PRX has already broken the 1000 euro mark, which is still not outrageous considering the overall package delivered. The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 38mm Titanium models are offered here at a very good price 875 eurosThat's 100 euros more than the current asking price for a 40mm steel version. The PRX Powermatic 38mm Damascus Steel retails 1,075 euroswhich is also quite impressive considering the nature of the material used for the case and numerous other elements of the watch.
For more information, visit tissotwatches.com.
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