It's been a while since we last took a detailed look at a Tissot watch for a practical review.
The last review was the PRX Powermatic 80 - a significant release for the brand, often positively compared to the Rolex Land-Dweller. Today, we are reviewing a relatively new model - the Visodate 39mm, introduced in March this year.
Initially, I didn't pay much attention to its announcement, but after a closer look at the technical specifications, my interest grew. After a phone call, we received a sample in our studio thanks to Gem Bijou from Toronto. To understand why this novelty is so good, one must first get acquainted with the previous model, which had a significantly larger case in diameter, thickness, and weight. The previous version used convex glass, now replaced with box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, an updated dial, a mesh bracelet, reduced water resistance, and many other changes. The new model is essentially a completely transformed watch, and almost every innovation has improved the design and functionality.
Redesign of the Case
Let's start with the most obvious yet impressive - the new case shape. The Visodate now has one of the best case sizes in its price segment. The case diameter is 39mm, and the thickness is an impressive 10.45mm, ensuring an excellent fit on the wrist. Upon first unpacking, the watch made a strong impression on me: it feels pleasant in hand and sits so comfortably on the wrist that I wondered why I hadn't paid more attention to the brand before.
The case size was perfect for my 16.5 cm wrist, and the finish quality and details of the watch seem several levels above previous Tissot models I've dealt with. The new version features a very elegant and thin polished bezel about 2mm wide. The case profile has a beautiful smooth curve with fine brushing. The medium-length lugs are well-balanced with the case, slightly chamfered, and have polished edges. All these details in the 39mm case create a restrained yet elegant watch, and compared to the previous model, this is perhaps one of the best watch updates I've seen in recent years from any brand.
One of the few elements retained from the previous Visodate version is the transparent case back, showcasing the familiar Powermatic 80 movement, loved by many.
Wearing on the Wrist
The new model has few competitors that I am familiar with either from wearing experience or from reviews. The Hamilton Khaki Field line, particularly the Murph 38mm model, first comes to mind. Also worth noting are the Mido Multifort Patrimony, Seiko Presage Style60, and the more budget-friendly Orient Bambino 38mm. In my opinion, the Visodate 39 is the best in this group for wearability.
Although watches with a 39mm diameter and only a date function usually seem a bit large to me, in this case, everything works perfectly. The bezel is harmoniously integrated into the case, and the angles and lines of the design create a pleasant feel on the wrist. An additional plus is the thin thickness of 10.45mm, which not only allows the watch to sit very snugly on the wrist but also reduces the overall weight.
The lug width is now 20mm, allowing for a bracelet with "rice grain" style central links, giving the watch a good presence. The bracelet turned out to be very comfortable - not too thick or wide, with flexible links that easily adapt to the shape of the hand. Especially impressive is the manufacturing precision, particularly the junction of the bracelet with the case and lugs - the transition looks and feels impeccable.
These are sporty-business watches that can also be attributed to the retro-chic sports style. They look restrained and formal but easily combine with everyday wear. However, I would not call them truly versatile (GADA), like the Oyster Perpetual, as the water resistance is limited to 50 meters, and the crown does not have a screw-down mechanism.
Dial Construction
The new version of the Visodate is available in three dial color options. Today we are looking at the black one, but a deep blue with a sunburst effect and a classic silver with gold markers on a brown leather strap are also available. The dial has changed from the flat lacquered design of the previous version to a multi-layered one with alternating matte and brushed sections. The center of the dial is a raised circle with vertical brushing, surrounded by a recessed section with concentric brushing. The edge features a second track with fine divisions and digital markings every 5 seconds.
Minute markers are thin batons, each adorned with a small luminescent spot on top - a design element reminiscent of 80s-90s watches, which is one of my favorite details. The hour and minute hands are large, provide excellent readability, and have a sporty character, contrasting with the more classic dial style.
Special mention should be made of the sapphire crystal with a low-profile box shape - one of the best options I've seen in watches of this class. It has the beloved dome shape but does not protrude too much, not compromising the overall case thickness, and minimally distorts the dial image when viewed at an angle.
Final Assessment
Overall, I am very impressed with how Tissot has transformed the Visodate model. It is no longer just an interesting novelty but one of the leading watches in its segment. They are perfectly suited for daily wear, becoming less flashy while maintaining retro styling.
If I were looking for a watch in the price range of around 850 USD right now, the Visodate 39mm would be one of the top candidates. Although the model is relatively new, it can pose serious competition to the Hamilton Khaki Field, as potential buyers begin to notice this newcomer in the market.