As a longtime watch enthusiast and reviewer, I’ve handled countless timepieces across all price ranges, from entry-level automatics to high-end luxury watches. The Tissot PRX line has been one of the most compelling releases in recent years—a perfect blend of retro-inspired design and modern Swiss watchmaking. Now, with the PRX Chronograph Automatic (Ref. T1374271101100), Tissot has taken things up a notch.
Does this chronograph live up to the hype? Is it worth the premium over the time-only PRX models? Let’s dive deep into the design, mechanics, and real-world wearability to find out.
Design: A Bold, Contemporary Statement
Case & Bracelet
The PRX Chronograph retains the signature integrated bracelet design that made the original PRX so popular. The 40mm stainless steel case wears slightly larger than the 35mm and 40mm three-handers due to the chronograph pushers, but it still maintains a sleek, wrist-hugging profile.
The angular, brushed finishing gives it a sporty yet refined aesthetic, while the polished chamfers add a touch of luxury. The bracelet is where the PRX truly shines—each link is meticulously finished, with a mix of brushed and polished surfaces that catch the light beautifully. The quick-release mechanism makes strap swapping a breeze, though the integrated design means aftermarket options are limited.
Dial & Legibility
The white “waffle” textured dial is a standout feature, offering depth and visual interest under different lighting conditions. The applied indices and hands are generously filled with lume (Super-LumiNova), ensuring readability in low light.
The subdials (30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, small seconds at 9 o’clock) are cleanly laid out, and the date window at 6 o’clock maintains symmetry—a thoughtful touch. The red chronograph seconds hand adds a subtle pop of color, reinforcing the watch’s sporty character.
Overall Aesthetic
This is a versatile watch—it can easily transition from a business-casual setting to a weekend outing. The white dial version, in particular, feels crisp and contemporary, avoiding the sometimes overly aggressive vibe of darker PRX models.
Technical Specifications: Swiss Engineering at a Fair Price
- Movement: ETA A05.H31 (based on the Valjoux 7753)
- 60-hour power reserve
- Column-wheel chronograph (a premium feature at this price)
- 28,800 vph (4Hz) frequency
- Hacking seconds
- Case: 40mm stainless steel, 14.4mm thickness
- Water Resistance: 100m (10 bar)—more than enough for swimming
- Crystal: Sapphire (front and exhibition caseback)
- Bracelet: Stainless steel, double-folding clasp with push-button release
The A05.H31 movement is a robust, proven workhorse. While not as refined as higher-end chronograph calibers, it’s reliable, serviceable, and a major step up from the quartz movements found in many entry-level chronographs.
The 14.4mm thickness is noticeable, especially if you’re used to slimmer dress watches, but it’s well-balanced on the wrist. For comparison, it’s still thinner than many mechanical chronographs in this range (e.g., Seiko’s Prospex Speedtimer).
Real-World Performance: How Does It Wear?
On the Wrist
The 40mm case diameter is ideal for most wrists (6.5″–7.5″), though those with smaller wrists might find the lug-to-lug (~46mm) and thickness a bit imposing. The bracelet is extremely comfortable, tapering smoothly from 20mm at the lugs to 16mm at the clasp.
Chronograph Functionality
The pushers have a satisfying click, and the column-wheel mechanism ensures smooth operation. The 60-minute subdial is practical, though a 12-hour counter would have been even better for long timing sessions.
Everyday Usability
- Dressy enough for office wear but sporty enough for casual outings.
- 100m water resistance means you don’t have to baby it.
- Scratch-resistant sapphire keeps the dial pristine.
Value Proposition: Is It Worth the Price?
At ~$2,000, the PRX Chronograph sits in a competitive space. Compared to alternatives:
- Seiko Prospex Speedtimer (Solar): More affordable but lacks the Swiss automatic prestige.
- Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono: More vintage-inspired but thicker and pricier.
- Longines BigEye: A step up in movement quality but also more expensive.
Pros:
✅ Outstanding design & finishing for the price
✅ Reliable Swiss automatic chronograph movement
✅ Great versatility (dressy or sporty)
✅ Strong brand heritage (Tissot is a respected Swiss entry-level luxury name)
Cons:
❌ Thick case may not suit smaller wrists
❌ No 12-hour chronograph counter
❌ Limited strap alternatives due to integrated design
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This Watch?
The Tissot PRX Chronograph Automatic White Dial is an excellent choice for:
- Watch enthusiasts who want a Swiss-made chronograph without breaking the bank.
- Professionals seeking a versatile, eye-catching daily wearer.
- Fans of integrated bracelet designs who appreciate the Gerald Genta-inspired aesthetic.
If you’re looking for a well-built, stylish, and mechanically robust chronograph under $2,500, this is one of the best options available.
Final Rating: 9/10 – A near-perfect blend of style, performance, and value.