When it comes to Tissot, it’s a brand that needs no introduction. Worn by the likes of Elvis Presley, The Duchess of Cambridge and Nelson Mandela, Tissot are in my humble opinion the underdogs of the Swatch group.

When I came to find this piece I was in the market for something bold, black and classy but most importantly Swiss. Having started my collection with Seiko, Citizen and G-Shock I thought it was time to step up my game a bit. After trawling the internet for what felt like forever I happened across the Tissot V8 Swissmatic and I instantly knew it ticked all of my boxes.

With a textured dial that mimics a race track and a rally style strap, this classy piece easily fits in at the office during your 9 to 5 but also works as a dressy weekend driver for those that love to get out on a good old road trip. Sporting a 72 hour power reserve with its in house C15.111 movement and weighing in at 83 grams it wears comfortably which is surprising given its 42.5mm case size. Lug width of 22mm makes this one a strap monster too! 100 meters of water resistance and a sapphire crystal with display case back, top this off nicely making it a great overall piece that would go well in any collection.

Retail, these come in nicely for the $500+ budget and for what you’re getting it certainly gives you great value for your money. The case finish is a mix of brushed surfaces and high polish edges which gives you the feel of a watch that is worth way more than your usual run of the mill brands like Seiko, Citizen, etc. As for lume, only the minute and hour hands have a small sliver of green that gives a nice glow, making it legible enough for those late night lume watchers ????

For my first Swiss purchase, I couldn’t be happier and I’m still in the honeymoon phase. For a great classy piece this one has it covered and is a keeper for sure.