Tissot 1853 Le Locle Review: Swiss

Quick Questions

Is Tissot 1853 a good Swiss watch brand?
Why is Tissot called Tissot 1853?
What does the plus sign in the Tissot logo mean?
Is Tissot owned by the Swatch Group?
Where is the Tissot Le Locle factory located?

Tissot's story begins in 1853 in Le Locle, Switzerland, a town synonymous with watchmaking excellence. The iconic '+' in the Tissot logo is more than a design choice; it's a badge of Swiss precision and reliability that the brand has upheld for over 170 years. Because every timepiece bears the inscription 'TISSOT 1853,' enthusiasts affectionately refer to these watches as Tissot 1853. The brand's motto, 'THIS IS YOUR TIME,' isn't just a tagline—it's an invitation to seize the moment and a bold statement of personal identity. As part of the Swatch Group, Tissot sits in the accessible luxury segment, positioned slightly below Longines. It's a volume leader in Swiss watchmaking, consistently ranking in the top ten for global turnover, with only giants like Rolex, Omega, and Cartier ahead—yet Tissot's average price is far lower, making it the best-selling Swiss brand in terms of units.

When it comes to materials, Tissot doesn't compromise even on entry-level models. The brand typically uses 316L stainless steel cases and sapphire crystals, a standard that many competitors reserve for higher price points. Even quartz watches under $1,000 feature sapphire, while other brands at similar prices often opt for cheaper, less scratch-resistant mineral glass. This commitment to quality is a hallmark of Tissot's ethos.

Movement-wise, Tissot relies on the Swatch Group's ETA calibers, including the ETA2836-2, Powermatic 80, C15.111, C01.211, and ETA2671. These movements are often enhanced with decorative finishing, and some are shared with prestigious brands like Oris, Breitling, and Tudor. This shared DNA ensures reliability and ease of service.

With dozens of collections, from the classic Le Locle to sporty T-Sport lines, Tissot offers something for every style. Price-wise, quartz models typically range from $200 to $500, while mechanicals start around $500. Some budget mechanicals use plastic parts, but the ETA2836, 2671, and Powermatic 80 versions offer exceptional value. In terms of resale, most watches depreciate, and the advice to 'skip Tissot and buy Longines' has merit—but with a $600 budget, you can't afford a Longines, making Tissot a smart interim choice.

Overall Verdict

For budget-conscious buyers, Tissot delivers outstanding value. If you're looking for a reliable Swiss watch without breaking the bank, Tissot 1853 is a worthy investment. The Le Locle line, in particular, embodies the brand's heritage and quality. While it may not be a luxury investment piece, it offers a genuine Swiss watch experience at an accessible price point.