Tissot Adds Fresh Colours To The PR516 38mm Powermatic 80 Line

The PR516 is one of Tissot’s long-standing sports-oriented collections, with roots going back to the mid-20th century. Originally introduced in 1956, the name PR516 stems from “Particulièrement Robustes,” reflecting the brand’s emphasis on durability. The collection evolved significantly during the 1960s, adopting a more motorsport-inspired identity that has become its defining characteristic.

In 2024, Tissot reintroduced the PR516 in mechanical form, starting with chronograph versions, followed by a more compact automatic time-and-date model. The PR516 38 mm Powermatic 80 marked an important addition to the lineup, offering the same racing-inspired aesthetic in a simpler and more accessible configuration. Building on the success of those releases, Tissot now adds two new dial colours to the PR516 38 mm Powermatic 80 range.

Case and Construction

The PR516 Powermatic 80 is housed in a stainless steel case measuring 38 mm in diameter, with a thickness of 11.20 mm and a lug-to-lug length of approximately 44 mm. These proportions place it firmly in the compact sports watch category, suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The case construction combines predominantly brushed surfaces with polished bevels along the flanks, adding visual contrast without compromising the tool-watch character.

A fixed bezel with a black coating frames the dial and features a 60-minute scale. The bezel insert is protected by mineral crystal, designed to evoke the appearance of vintage acrylic while maintaining modern durability. The dial itself is covered by a sapphire crystal, and the watch offers water resistance rated to 100 metres, reinforcing its everyday sports credentials.

Dial Variants and Display

For this latest update, Tissot introduces two new dial options. The first features a matte white dial paired with the black bezel, creating a high-contrast and legible configuration. Applied hour markers and hands are finished in a dark grey tone and filled with Super-LumiNova for visibility in low-light conditions. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o’clock.

The second new variant presents a gradient aqua blue dial, transitioning from a lighter centre to a darker outer edge. This version is fitted with silver-toned applied markers and hands, also luminescent, and a white date disc. Unlike earlier 2024 releases, the central seconds hand matches the rest of the dial hardware rather than using a contrasting accent colour.

Both dials retain the core PR516 design elements, including bold indices, clear minute markings, and a layout inspired by 1960s racing watches.

Movement and Bracelet

Powering the PR516 38 mm is the Powermatic 80 automatic movement, visible through a transparent caseback. Based on the ETA 2824 architecture, this calibre operates at a reduced frequency of 3Hz and features an optimized gear train, allowing for an extended power reserve of up to 80 hours. The movement is also equipped with a Nivachron hairspring, enhancing resistance to magnetic fields and contributing to improved long-term stability.

The watch is fitted with a five-link stainless steel bracelet featuring alternating brushed and polished finishes. The bracelet is secured with a butterfly folding clasp, maintaining a streamlined appearance on the wrist.

Availability and Pricing

The new Tissot PR516 38 mm Powermatic 80 models are now available through Tissot boutiques and authorized retailers. Pricing remains unchanged compared to previous versions, with a retail price set at € 745, positioning the PR516 as a competitively priced Swiss automatic sports watch with vintage-inspired design and modern specifications.

Our Take

These two new dial colours expand an already diverse PR516 lineup. They now sit alongside the existing blue time-and-date version, as well as the two black and one white references featuring gilt-coloured accents. In addition to the three-hand models, the PR516 collection also includes no fewer than eight chronograph variants, underlining Tissot’s intention to position the PR516 as a broad motorsport-inspired family rather than a single standalone release.

Between the two new introductions, the white-dial version stands out in terms of overall visual coherence. The date window blends seamlessly into the dial thanks to a matching background, while the dark silver tone used for the applied hour markers and hands creates a balanced contrast against the matte white surface. This combination reinforces legibility while preserving the restrained, vintage-inspired aesthetic that defines the PR516 range.

More information here.

General Specifications:

Brand: Tissot

Model: PR516 Powermatic 80

References: T149.407.11.031.00 (white dial), T149.407.11.041.00 (aqua blue dial)

Dial: White, aqua blue gradient

Case Material: Stainless steel

Case Dimensions: 38 mm diameter, 11.20 mm thickness, 44 mm lug-to-lug

Crystal: Sapphire Glass

Case Back: See-through

Water Resistance: 100 Meters

Strap: Stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp

Calibre: Powermatic 80

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date

Winding: Automatic

Frequency: 3 Hz (21,600 Vph)

Jewels: 23

Power Reserve: 80 Hours

Price: € 745

Availability: Now

Limited Edition: No