VIDEO: The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Chronograph delivers the high-octane essence of modern racing

Fergus Nash

With some of the more out-there design choices of the late ’90s and early ’00s coming back into fashion, it takes an extremely keen eye to come out with a range which matches that energy without looking too dated or clunky. The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Chronograph and Powermatic 80 are watches that capture the essence of modern racing edge, with a heart of classic muscle. Andrew sat down with Tissot’s CEO Sylvain Dolla in their Le Locle headquarters to go in-depth about the PRS 516, where its origins lie, what its name means, and what some of its standout features are.

 

 

Tissot’s connection with motorsport dates back to the 1960s and even made it onto the Formula 1 grid through sponsorship with Lotus, so there can be no doubt about their heritage when it comes to a racing collection. The star of the range has to be the Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Chronograph which is powered by an adaptation of the classic Valjoux 7753, giving you 60 hours of power reserve with a 4Hz beat rate. One of the most obvious modern touches is the black ceramic bezel, which lies on top of a red ring. This ring not only adds a thrill to the outer case design, but also ties in with the bright red chronograph hand complete with a T counterbalance.

The sunburst blue of the dial is a truly stunning shade with great depths, but if you’re not too fond of the colour or the layout there are other references of the 516 available in black, grey, or silver with quartz movements. There are also the time-only versions which are run by the ubiquitous Powermatic 80, bringing the racing attitude in a more versatile package. All of the watches are packed with characterful nods to motorsport too, such as the automatic winding rotors being shaped like steering wheels.

The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Chronograph pricing and availability:

The Tissot PRS 516 Automatic Chronograph is available now for $2900