Tissot Porto: A Decade of Enduring Charm

Here is a watch from a brand I've never written about so far. Surprisingly.

Surprisingly because the first mechanical watch I bought was a Tissot PR100. it was like a Rolex for me at the time (it was in the 80s still). Then the first pocket watch I bought was a brand new Tissot steel "savonnette". And the oldest watch I've owned and I still wear is this Tissot Porto.

This watch bears perhaps the less prestigious name in my little collection, but I don't find it less appealing, less deserving of passion.

And this is not just because it was offered to me by my wife for our wedding.

I see in this watch an extraordinary blend of gracing form, watchmaking work (what a guilloche dial), and perfect transposition of the best of the past in the present (or recent time) size. The thick mineral glass plays also a great role in delivering the dial work and charm.

Ten year after the original crocodile strap still amazes me for its quality. Consider that such a strap from a great brand today costs half of what was paid for the watch new ten years ago.

And it is also one aspect worth noting. Such a watch at this time was incredibly affordable, especially when you look at today's crazy prices. Where has gone all this good horology?

Certainly there are many many watches better made today, as it was the case at the time, but is it still possible to make a watch as nice without a costly manufacture calibre, without a costly brand name?

This watch is powered with a Peseux 7001. It's a basic calibre, but an efficient one that comes from a calibre maker that made marvels. Of course it has long been integrated into ETA. It has even been used in some Blancpain watches (with a better finish though).

The small seconds frame, picturing the overall watch form, is a nice touch to give it some strong presence. The integrated bracelet attachments give some refinement and a cleaner appearance.

Great designs are supposed to never die. IMVHO this one will not. Ten years after partnering with this one, it gives me the desire to focus back my interest on simpler watches.

Best

Dje