The Tissot PRX series is already part of the collection. At the moment I have two, the standard PRX Powermatic 80 and the PRX Automatic Chronograph. Both, and all at that time, were stainless steel models. For the first time, early October 2024, Tissot introduced the lightweight forged carbon material for the body of the PRX as well as the dial. What is exciting is that the price point of the watch did not appreciate considerably as expected. It would seem that forged carbon watch is possible to buy by the vast majority of watch collectors.
Getting one in KL was not that easy. Tissot only allocated units to its own boutique. It was only in February 2025 that authorized dealers started to receive their consignments.
I was lucky to go into the Timekeeper shop in NU Sentral. The shop manager informed me that they just received one the day before. I immediately took possession of that piece.
Forged Carbon
Forged carbon is distinguished by its unique marbled or swirled pattern and boasts superior strength and durability compared to standard carbon fiber. It is highly resistant to impacts and scratches and exhibits uniform strength in all directions. Due to these properties, forged carbon is utilized in high-performance applications, such as by Lamborghini for structural components, interior trim, and seats. Additionally, it is used to produce brake levers and engine cover components. Compared to traditional carbon fiber, forged carbon has a higher fiber volume content and greater variation in strand orientation, contributing to its enhanced performance.
However, these advantages come at a higher cost, making forged carbon more expensive than materials like plastic or leather. In the watchmakers' world, having a forged carbon as a key material in a watch means a price point that is high. Nonetheless, Tissot has been able to keep the costs lower than normally seen in the market. This is exciting news as it now opportunity for the majority of watch collectors to get one affordably.
However, the skeptic in me do have these few questions that need answering: Has Tissot discovered a more efficient and cheaper way to produce the product? If the process is still the same, is the product inferior to other brands hence the ability to reduce prices?
If the answer is positive for the first question, they may have an intellectual property that would make them loads of money. If the answer to the second question is also yes, buyers beware!
The Watch
It is important to note that the movement, dial, case back, and crystal are all mounted in or on a central steel cylinder, while the mid-case, bezel, and dial are forged carbon. Forged carbon is more of a surface paneling instead of the undercarriage. It is not suited for threading, hence a a central steel housing is the the undercarriage that bores the brunt of the linkages. As such, the case measures slightly bigger and thicker than the regular steel model. Dimension-wise, it measures 40.5 mm across by 46.0 mm in length and 11.2 mm in thickness. Meanwhile it weights in at 75 grams, down from the 86 gram steel quartz PRX on the rubber strap.
The hands, hour and minute markers, the texts as well as the date aperture are similar to the standard steel PRX (click here to read that more about that model). What is different is the bare forged carbon dial. The forged carbon shavings reflect light individually, creating a 3D effect that is mesmerizing. It is a more seductive material to use on a dial instead of anthracite or mother-of-pearl. The sustain the dark effect of the dial, the date window incorporated a date wheel with a negative background.
Note also from the photo above, the edge of the forged carbon surfaces have been beveled to reduce the 'sharpness'.
A flat sapphire crystal up top and a mineral glass in the case-back sandwich the carbon case. As you can see in the photo above, the edge of the crystal is beveled and set slightly higher than the fixed bezel. There is a small chance of a glancing blow hitting the crystal.
The crown is made out of black PVD stainless steel with the 'T' signature at the top surface. It uses a simple push-in/pull-out mechanism to manually wind the watch (if required) or adjust the date (the first pull position) and time (the second pull position).
On the case-back and via the display window, one can see a lot of information about the watch. Tissot specifies the water resistance is 100 meters. Apart from the model number and serial number, the brand decided to promote the stainless steel feature of the watch instead of the forged carbon composite. Not a wise move in my opinion. Instead of 'STAINLESS STEEL', focus of 'FORGED CARBON' instead.
Another important notation that is found on the rotor is the words, 'SILICON BALANCE SPRING'. This signifies that the Powermatic 80 is a newer version with Silicon Balance Spring and Silicium Hairspring. Based on the research done, the Powermatic 80.811 (ETA C07.811) is different than the other Powermatic 80s in the fact that it uses a silicon balance spring and silicium hairspring instead of the High-Tech Escapement system for the rest. This has an added benefit of furthering the resistance to magnetism.
The rubber strap has quick-release mechanism. The connection to the casing is proprietary hence there could be an issue of getting replacement strap once the original starts disintegrating.
The strap has a waffle-style texture at the outer-part while in inner-part is smooth with some information about the strap code. In this case, it has a large 'PRX' cut into the surface as well as a code number "T137410ABE".
The black PVD buckle is signed with the brand name.
The Wearing Experience
The Tissot PRX Forged Carbon offers a wearing experience that seamlessly blends luxury, comfort, and modern design. From the moment it is strapped to the wrist, the watch feels surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its forged carbon case. This material not only enhances durability but also provides a unique, marbled texture that ensures no two watches look exactly alike. The 40mm case size strikes a perfect balance, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes without feeling overly bulky or too delicate. The integrated bracelet, a hallmark of the PRX line, flows effortlessly from the case, creating a sleek and cohesive look that exudes sophistication.
Comfort is a standout feature of this watch. Despite its sporty appearance, the watch transitions seamlessly from casual to formal settings, thanks to its refined aesthetic. The forged carbon dial catches the light beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. The Powermatic 80 movement, with its impressive 80-hour power reserve, ensures reliable performance, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.
What truly sets the Tissot PRX Forged Carbon apart is its ability to make a statement while remaining understated. The forged carbon case gives it a modern, avant-garde edge, while the classic PRX design language keeps it grounded in timeless style. Wearing this watch feels like having a piece of cutting-edge horology on your wrist, yet it never feels ostentatious. It’s a watch that not only looks and feels premium but also offers a level of versatility and comfort that makes it a joy to wear day in and day out. Below is a video of the watch on my wrist.
Specifications
Reference: T137.907.97.201.00
Case Material: Shaped forged carbon case with stainless steel central container
Band Material: Black rubber strap with waffle texture, PVD coated steel buckle and interchangeable quick release mechanism
Case Diameter: 40.5 mm Case Height: 11.2 mm
Lug-to-Lug Length: 46.0 mm
Lug Width: 12.0 mm (proprietary length)
Crystal: Flat sapphire crystal
Dial: Forged carbon dial
Luminosity: Applied markers & hands with Super-LumiNova
Case-Back: Blackened stainless steel see-through mineral glass window
Water Resistant: 100 meters
Weight: 75 gm
Movement: Powermatic 80 Si (upgraded ETA 2824-2) with silicon balance spring, automatic winding
Jewels: 25
Frequency: 21,600BPH/ 3 Hertz
Power Reserve: 80 hours
Complications: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Purchase Date: 22 February 2025
Vendor: Timekeeper, NU Sentral
MSRP: RM4,650
Purchase Price: RM4,430
Warranty: Two (2) years
Serial Number: WEC6AK09L
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