The longstanding Tissot T-Race Chronograph watch family has released a new generation of models, and this reference T141.417.11.051.01 is the black-dialed version of the T-Race Chronograph quartz in steel on the matching bracelet. The T-Race is a motorsports-themed sports watch that often has a bezel inspired by a disc brake rotor, a signature design element of the timepiece collection. This is blended with a bold personality and large case dimensions. In very real terms, the Tissot T-Race is a statement piece for those who celebrate an automotive and race-loving lifestyle, and for a long time, it has been a strong seller for Tissot.
The latest generation Tissot T-Race Chronograph takes a decidedly “integrated bracelet” look, which means there is no clear distinction between where the bracelet starts and the case ends. This is meant to create a jewelry-style (versus instrument) look, and that is totally fine for a watch of this ilk. Tissot opts for a more old-world sense of quality, with a watch that is large in size and weight. The T-Race is solidly built and feels both durable and substantial, weighing a reported 199 grams. That is despite the architectural black resin flanks of the watch that no doubt help to keep the weight down a bit.
This Tissot T-Race Chronograph watch in steel is 45mm wide and has the same 45mm long lug-to-lug distance. It’s unusual for an otherwise round watch to have such square dimensions. This actually helps the 45mm-wide size fit on much smaller wrists, given the relatively stubby 45mm long lug-to-lug distance. The case is also 11.8mm thick and water-resistant to 100 meters. Over the dial is an AR-coated sapphire crystal, which is nice to have in a Swiss Made watch at this relatively low price.
To make the watch a bit sportier-looking, Tissot opted for chronograph pushers that are slightly different in shape. Some might not like the asymmetry, but this design choice does help give the watch more personality. More so, the case is actually comfortable despite the larger size and weight. The thick-linked bracelet articulates well over the wrist, and the deployant buckle can be micro-adjusted so that the case will not fatigue you. The case is also low and flat enough on the wrist that it does not feel too top-heavy.
Dial legibility is excellent, and that goes for the other colors of this watch dial, which include blue and silver, in addition to the pictured black. Tissot did a nice job designing very large yet elegant hands, and a dial that is very restrained and instrumental. Tissot understands that the brake rotor style bezel is visually wild enough that the dial can be otherwise relatively simple. It is nevertheless populated with many markers, given the placement of the chronograph complication, date, and tachymeter scale on the sloped flange ring. The luminant application isn’t half bad either. If only more “themed” watches were also this good at being just watches.
While Tissot does make automatic chronograph versions of the T-Race Chronograph, Tissot’s Swiss Made quartz versions are more popular by volume. That makes sense given who Tissot is selling to, and what price point does the best for a product family like the T-Race. Inside the watch is 1/10 of a second ETA caliber G10.212 quartz chronograph movement. This movement tells the time with date and features a 30-minute chronograph with a split-second function. Again, the accuracy of the chronograph is to 1/10th of a second. Interestingly, a similar version of this movement is used in other watches that have a football (soccer) match time. Despite some of the smaller hands on the dial being in polished silver and blending in a bit with the black face (affecting contrast and thus legibility), I think Tissot did a pretty nice job with the chronograph part of this T-Race watch. But the rear of the watch is a bit dull, with a missed opportunity for artwork or more personality. Perhaps it is left blank as an engravable space?
As a daily-wear sports lifestyle watch for people who have a fondness for motorcycles and racing, the Tissot T-Race is as good a watch now as it has ever been. Tissot also maintains a very competitive price point and builds a solid watch for the money. Price for the reference T141.417.11.051.01 Tissot T-Race Chronograph watch is $575 USD. Learn more at the Tissot watches website.
Necessary Data
>Brand: Tissot
>Model: T-Race Chronograph reference T141.417.11.051.01
>Price: $575 USD
>Size: 45mm wide (with bezel), 11.8mm thick, 45mm long lug-to-lug distance
>When reviewer would personally wear it: When wanting to fit in with the biker crowd, but also wanting a proper watch.
>Friend we’d recommend it to first: Motorcycle racing or motorbike enthusiast who likes a bold yet comfortable and stylish sports watch for regular wear.
>Best characteristic of watch: Well-made and comfortable with a handsome face and a lot of utility despite the novelty bezel. Well-priced for what you get. Polarizing watch by design – which is a good or bad thing depending on your tastes.
>Worst characteristic of watch: Heavy with a thick bracelet that some might find “a bit much.” Polarizing bezel design isn’t for everyone. Would have been nice to have a detachable bracelet and included extra rubber strap for added wearing versatility.
