The Tissot Stylist was originally created in 1965 as a lineup of affordably priced timepieces that could be produced at scale using standardized movements, while still offering a distinct and trendy case profile. For its latest release of 2024, Tissot has revived the Stylist series with a duo of new models that closely adhere to the original spirit of the collection, and these aim to be well-made and design-focused wristwatches that can be sold for a truly entry-level price. Featuring tonneau-shaped cases with quartz movements and the option of two different dials, the new Tissot Stylist watches are the absolute least expensive models currently available within the Swiss brand’s catalog, and they are priced at just five bucks more than the cost of a MoonSwatch.
Featuring a tonneau-shaped profile, the cases of the new Tissot Stylist watches are crafted from 316L stainless steel, and they feature a linear brushed finish on both their sides and top surfaces while contrasting high-polished bevels run vertically down either side of the watch. Regarding their dimensions, the new Stylist models measure 32mm in diameter by 7mm thick, and the sides of their cases fluidly extend to create lugs that are set 18mm apart. The dial side of the Tissot Stylist’s case receives a flat sapphire crystal, while the reverse side of the watch is fitted with a solid pressure-fit caseback, and at the 3 o’clock location is a signed crown that operates with a standard push/pull-style action. Water resistance for the new Stylist models comes in at 50 meters to protect against daily contact, and the weight of the watch is listed at 34 grams, although the brand does not specify whether or not this figure includes its strap.
At the time of writing, the new Tissot Stylist series consists of two models that both offer a simple two-handed, time-only layout; however, they differ from each other when it comes to their dials, hands, and straps. The first of the new Stylist models is the ref. T159.909.16.043.00, and it features a blue gradient dial with Roman numeral hour markers, and it is completed by a matching blue leather strap. Meanwhile, the second version of the Tissot Stylist is the ref. T159.909.16.031.00, and in addition to featuring a silver sunburst dial with a brown leather strap, its hour markers appear as simple batons (instead of Roman numerals), and its hands and indexes all receive a yellow gold PVD finish. As the Stylist is hardly a sports watch, its dials and thin baton-shaped hands are entirely devoid of luminous material, and dial text is kept to a relative minimum, with details such as the model’s depth rating relegated to the caseback.
Since affordability has always been one of the primary attributes of the Tissot Stylist collection, the new pair of Stylist models run on simple battery-powered ETA quartz movements. While Tissot does not specify the exact calibers used inside its new Stylist watches, all of the movement’s specifications would indicate that it is some variation of the three-jewel ETA Caliber F03. Tissot lists the Stylist’s movement as being 7 3/4‴ (7.75 lignes), which corresponds to the Swiss manufacturer’s Cal. F03 series, and the standard iterations of the ETA F03 run on a single No. 364 power cell with an end-of-life (EOL) indicator and an approximate battery life of three to four years. Lastly, the blue or brown leather straps that are fitted to the new Tissot Stylist models feature integrated quick-release springbars connecting them to the lugs, and both straps are completed by traditional stainless steel tang-style buckles.
Aside from offering a clean and simple design with a rather distinct tonneau-shaped case, the new Tissot Stylist models are fairly standard and remarkable watches. However, where this budget-friendly collection really starts to shine is when it comes to its price point, and both versions of the Tissot Stylist cost just $275 USD, which makes them all of five bucks more than what what Tissot’s fellow Swatch Group brands currently charge for one of their standard MoonSwatch models. Although Tissot is hardly the most premium marquee within the greater Swatch Group umbrella, the brand has always produced solid watches, and while the new Stylist models aren’t likely to be top choices for seasoned collectors, they undeniably represent a highly attainable way for buyers to get their hands on a well-made Swiss watch that offers a distinct yet versatile appearance. For more information on the Tissot Stylist, please visit the brand’s website.
