For several years, the company's main focus was the successful PRX collection, but last year Tissot decided to return to basics, subtly reimagining one of its classic models - the Chemin des Tourelles collection.
Slightly altered design, enhanced mechanics with the Powermatic 80 movement, and a new elegant dial design - the updated Chemin des Tourelles represent the definition of classic, elegant watches at a fair price. Expanding the collection and offering a view of the mechanics from both sides, Tissot Chemin des Tourelles introduces the Skeleton collection.
When you look at the Tissot collection, besides heritage-oriented watches and sports models like the PRX or Seastar, you will find many classic watches. There is the Gentleman model, a modern casual-chic option, then Le Locle with its textured dials and retro style, and finally, Chemin des Tourelles, which can be seen as a modern version of elegant universal watches. This might seem a bit confusing, but if you look closely at these three collections, the differences become apparent.
As mentioned, the Chemin des Tourelles was updated last year: all 15 models now feature the Powermatic 80 movement, including 42, 39, and 34 mm versions, as well as a redesigned case and updated dial patterns and colors - subtle changes to keep the collection relevant. Now, Tissot introduces three new models with skeleton dials - unlike the Le Locle collection, which uses the Open Heart concept with an opening above the balance, the Chemin des Tourelles reveals much of the mechanics through its dials.
Currently, Tissot presents the Chemin des Tourelles Skeleton only in medium-sized cases, that is, with a diameter of 39 mm, which, in our opinion, is the best size in this collection, a pleasant blend of modernity and comfort. The case, with a reasonable thickness of 11.2 mm, follows last year's design update: more curves on the sides and bezel, shorter and thinner lugs, improved ergonomic profile, and tapered side design, making it visually lighter. The case length of 43.7 mm also makes it compact and elegant on the wrist. Water-resistant up to 50 meters, the new skeleton models feature a domed sapphire crystal and a transparent case back.
An important update here is the dial opening, providing visibility of the mechanism. The Powermatic 80 movement, perhaps not the most beautiful, is treated with vertical matte surfaces here and allows you to see the mechanics - always a great way to learn how mechanical watches work. The hour indication on the Chemin des Tourelles Skeleton has been simplified, as the date has been removed.
The Chemin des Tourelles Skeleton watches are available in three versions. The first is a classic for the collection, with a blue dial, Clou de Paris pattern, and applied Roman numerals. Like the closed dial version, this blue model is worn on a stainless steel bracelet with 5 links. Tissot also presents an elegant and warm version in ivory color (personally, I think it should be called champagne) with a beautifully executed domed and matte dial featuring gold-colored hands and markers. The last version is a bolder option, with a black PVD-coated case, smoked glass dial, and gray markers and hands.
These two versions come with nubuck straps secured by folding clasps. All three models feature pleasant details like two-tone (polished and abrasive) hands, a domed profile of the dial and hands, and on the black and ivory versions - a mother-of-pearl minute hand.
Under the hood, the Swatch Group houses the new Powermatic 80 movement. This automatic caliber, an evolution of the 2824 architecture, provides a solid 80-hour power reserve and is equipped with a Nivachron anti-magnetic spring. The transparent case back reveals another side of the mechanism with its rather industrial finish (which is quite expected, given the price…).
The new Tissot Chemin des Tourelles Skeleton models, now available from the brand and in retail stores and part of the permanent collection, are offered at fair prices (as always with Tissot) - from 975 to 1,045 euros. More detailed information can be found on the website www.tissotwatches.com.