Tissot PRX Quartz VS Automatic - What To Buy?

Summary

In this detailed comparison of the Tissot PRX Quartz vs Automatic, the host, Harrison, explores the subtle yet important differences between the two models. Both watches share the same striking design but differ in movement, thickness, and price. The Quartz model is slimmer, more accurate, and more affordable, while the Automatic offers the charm of traditional watchmaking with a longer power reserve and smoother hand movement. Harrison dives deep into the technical specs, design features, and personal preferences to help viewers decide which model suits their needs best, offering both practicality and luxury at different price points.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Tissot PRX Quartz and Tissot PRX Automatic are two versions of the same 40mm watch, but they differ primarily in movement, thickness, and price.
• 😀 The Quartz model is 10.4mm thick, while the Automatic model is slightly thicker at 10.9mm due to the mechanical movement inside.
• 😀 The weight difference between the two models is minimal, with the Quartz weighing 134 grams and the Automatic weighing 141 grams.
• 😀 The Quartz version uses an ETA F06.115 quartz movement, offering high accuracy and low maintenance, whereas the Automatic uses the Powermatic 80, a mechanical movement with an 80-hour power reserve.
• 😀 Both watches feature a similar design, with a sleek 1970s-inspired case and a tapering bracelet made from 316L stainless steel.
• 😀 The Quartz model is more affordable at around £295, while the Automatic version is priced at approximately £595, nearly double the cost of the Quartz.
• 😀 The Automatic model has a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, while the Quartz model lacks this extra feature.
• 😀 Both watches have a date window at 3 o'clock, but the Automatic model has a silver border around the date, adding a subtle design detail.
• 😀 The Quartz model offers more accuracy due to its battery-powered quartz movement, while the Automatic model provides a smoother second hand sweep and is favored by watch enthusiasts for its traditional craftsmanship.
• 😀 The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to personal preference: the Quartz is ideal for those seeking precision and low-maintenance, while the Automatic is for those who value the tradition and craftsmanship of mechanical watches.

Q & A

What are the key differences between the Tissot PRX Quartz and Tissot PRX Automatic?

The main differences lie in their movements and thickness. The Quartz model is powered by a battery and is 10.4mm thick, while the Automatic model has a mechanical movement and is slightly thicker at 10.9mm. The Automatic also features a smooth second hand, while the Quartz has a ticking second hand.

What size are both versions of the Tissot PRX?

Both the Tissot PRX Quartz and Tissot PRX Automatic have a 40mm diameter, making them suitable for a variety of wrist sizes.

How does the price of the Quartz model compare to the Automatic model?

The Tissot PRX Quartz is priced at £295, while the Automatic model costs £595, making the Quartz nearly half the price of the Automatic.

What material are the Tissot PRX models made of?

Both the Quartz and Automatic models are made from 316L stainless steel, which is durable and has a sleek finish.

What type of movement do the Tissot PRX models use?

The Quartz model uses the ETA F06.115 battery-powered movement, while the Automatic model is powered by the Powermatic 80 movement, offering an 80-hour power reserve and resistance to magnetization.

What is the significance of the Powermatic 80 movement in the Automatic version?

The Powermatic 80 movement in the Automatic version provides a long power reserve of 80 hours, meaning the watch can continue running for over three days without being wound. It also includes a Nivicron balance spring for resistance to magnetic fields.

What are the differences in the dials between the Quartz and Automatic versions?

The Quartz model features a sunray pattern dial, while the Automatic model has a waffle-textured dial with a sunray pattern. Additionally, the Automatic model has a silver border around the date window, whereas the Quartz model does not.

Why does the reviewer prefer the Quartz model's dial design?

The reviewer prefers the Quartz model’s simpler dial design without the extra labeling, such as the Powermatic 80 logo, as it provides a cleaner and less busy aesthetic.

What is the difference in weight between the two models?

The Quartz model weighs 134 grams, while the Automatic model weighs 141 grams. The slight difference is due to the closed case back of the Quartz model and the open case back of the Automatic.

What is the performance of the loom on both models?

Both models feature loom on the hands, but the reviewer notes that the loom is not particularly strong compared to higher-end watches, especially in low-light conditions.

How does the reviewer compare the Quartz and Automatic versions to cars?

The reviewer compares the Quartz model to an electric car—efficient, accurate, and low-maintenance—and the Automatic model to a sports car with a traditional engine—more alive, requiring more care, but offering a deeper connection to the craft of watchmaking.

Which model does the reviewer recommend based on personal preferences?

The reviewer leans towards the Automatic model due to the smoothness of the second hand and the craftsmanship involved in automatic movements, but acknowledges that the Quartz model offers great value for money and practicality, especially for those who prioritize accuracy and lower maintenance.