Introduction: Swiss Craftsmanship Within Reach
For more than 170 years, Tissot has been a benchmark in Swiss watchmaking, delivering precision, heritage, and timeless design. Founded in Le Locle, Switzerland in 1853, the brand has built a reputation for creating high-quality watches that blend tradition with innovation — and all at an approachable price point. Unlike many Swiss luxury brands, Tissot has managed to keep a significant portion of its lineup under the $500 mark, making it possible for collectors, enthusiasts, and first-time buyers to own a piece of Swiss craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
In the world of affordable Swiss watches, Tissot shines as a true entry point into fine watchmaking. Their timepieces are known for robust Swiss quartz or automatic movements, elegant design, and a wide range of styles that suit both casual and formal occasions. Whether you are looking for a sporty chronograph, a refined dress watch, or a versatile everyday piece, Tissot has an option under $500 that delivers both reliability and style.
In this guide, we explore 15 of the best Tissot watches under $500, highlighting what makes each model special, who it’s best suited for, and why it deserves a place in your collection.
1. Tissot PRX
The Tissot PRX is perhaps the brand’s most talked-about model in recent years. Inspired by a 1978 design, this watch features a slim integrated case and bracelet that exudes retro-cool while staying thoroughly modern. Available in 25mm - 40mm sizes, the PRX caters to different wrist sizes and style preferences. Also, there is a 42mm variant but it is rather expensive and features an automatic Valjoux A05.H31 caliber.
2. Tissot PR 100
The Tissot PR 100 is a symbol of simplicity and functionality. Designed as a classic everyday watch, it comes with a clean dial layout, applied indices, and a date window at 3, 6 or between 4 and 5 o’clock. Measuring from 34mm to 41mm, it offers a balanced size that works well on most wrists.
3. Tissot Gentleman
The Tissot Gentleman blends contemporary style with traditional sophistication. At 40mm, it’s a versatile size that transitions easily from business attire to smart-casual wear. The polished case and understated dials available in different colors give it the aura of a much more expensive watch.
4. Tissot Classic Dream
The Tissot Classic Dream lives up to its name with timeless styling. Its 28mm - 42mm cases give it a modern presence, while Roman numeral hour markers and slender hands emphasize elegance. The watch offers a date window at 3 o’clock, perfect for those who value practical daily functionality and easy access to the current day.
5. Tissot Seastar 1000
For dive watch enthusiasts, the Tissot Seastar 1000 delivers impressive value. With water resistance up to 300 meters, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and luminous hands, it’s a capable tool watch for underwater adventures.
6. Tissot Ballade
The Tissot Ballade offers a dressy aesthetic with subtle detailing. The 34mm - 40mm stainless steel cases are paired with guilloché dial textures and elegant indices, giving it a sense of sophistication beyond its price point.
7. Tissot Supersport Chrono
The Supersport Chrono is Tissot’s bold and masculine take on the modern sports chronograph. At 45.5mm, it has an oversized presence, enhanced by sharp case lines and a dynamic dial layout featuring multiple subdials.
8. Tissot Supersport NBA Special Edition
Basketball fans will love the Tissot Supersport NBA Special Edition. Tissot has been the official timekeeper of the NBA for years, and this watch celebrates that partnership. With team-inspired details and the same 45.5mm case as the Supersport Chrono, it’s bold and sporty.
9. Tissot Stylist
The Tissot Stylist stands out with its square case design measuring 32x32mm. Inspired by vintage aesthetics, it offers a chic alternative to traditional round watches.
10. Tissot Everytime
The Tissot Everytime is one of the brand’s most minimalistic offerings. With sizes ranging from 34mm to 40mm, it’s versatile and unisex in appeal. The clean dials with simple stick markers make it a perfect everyday timepiece.
11. Tissot Carson Premium
The Carson Premium blends modern refinement with classic watchmaking cues. The 30mm - 41mm cases frame a dial often decorated with subtle textures and Roman numerals, making it feel distinguished. Some variations offer a Moon Phase or even a chronograph complication.
12. Tissot Chrono XL Classic
The Chrono XL Classic lives up to its name with an oversized 45mm case and chronograph functionality. It’s sporty yet polished, offering a clean dial layout with multiple subdials for timing functions. This timepiece is available with the metal bracelet or the old-fashioned looking leather straps.
13. Tissot Chrono XL Vintage
Adding a retro twist, the Chrono XL Vintage brings classic styling to the modern chronograph. Its 45mm size makes it bold, while details like vintage-inspired numerals and the vintage look of old-fashioned brown leather strap give it character.
14. Tissot Tradition
The Tissot Tradition balances contemporary technology with a vintage aesthetic. At 42mm, it sits comfortably on the wrist, while the textured guilloche dial and gently curved case lines add refinement.
This model is ideal for someone seeking an affordable Swiss dress watch with a nod to the past. The Tradition embodies the enduring charm of Tissot’s heritage. This model is available with a black dial and chronograph function as well.
Closing the list is the Tissot PRC 100 Solar wristwatch. At 39mm, it’s a compact and efficient watch powered by solar energy. The PRC 100 combines Tissot’s precision with eco-friendly technology, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.
Stylish and functional, this solar-powered option with a bold dodecagonal bezel is perfect for modern buyers who want sustainability and personality expression without sacrificing Swiss quality. It’s an innovative choice in the under-$500 range.
Picking the right Tissot watch under $500 depends on your lifestyle and style preferences. If you’re into sport and adventure, the Seastar 1000 is the top choice for diving, while the Supersport Chrono and Chrono XL series bring bold chronograph functions for active use. For the office or formal events, refined options like the Gentleman, Ballade, and Carson Premium deliver elegance that pairs perfectly with a suit. If you prefer minimalism, the Everytime or PR 100 offer versatile simplicity that works every day. Fans of retro styling will enjoy the PRX with its 1970s-inspired integrated bracelet or the unique square-case Stylist. For eco-conscious buyers, the PRC 100 Solar is a smart choice, combining Swiss precision with sustainability.
No matter your taste, Tissot ensures that Swiss quality, durability, and timeless design remain within reach — even under $500.
Yes. Tissot is a Swiss watchmaker with over 170 years of heritage. Their watches are known for durable stainless steel cases, sapphire crystals, reliable Swiss quartz movements, and stylish designs. Even their affordable models under $500 maintain a high standard of quality.
Tissot is considered an entry-level Swiss luxury brand. While more accessible than brands like Omega or Rolex, Tissot still delivers the craftsmanship and precision associated with Swiss watchmaking. It’s often recommended as a first luxury watch.
The answer depends on your needs:
• For a versatile everyday piece: Tissot PRX
• For diving: Tissot Seastar 1000
• For dress occasions: Tissot Gentleman
• For sport and activity: Tissot Supersport Chrono
Yes. Tissot quartz watches typically last many years with proper care. A standard quartz movement battery lasts 2–3 years, while the PRC 100 Solar offers solar-powered longevity without frequent battery changes.
Absolutely. Tissot offers one of the best values in the Swiss watch market, delivering heritage, precision, and style at prices that remain attainable. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned collector, a Tissot under $500 is a smart investment.
From the retro-cool PRX to the rugged Seastar and elegant Ballade, Tissot offers an impressive variety of watches under $500. Each model delivers a blend of precision, design, and heritage that reflects over a century of Swiss watchmaking excellence.
For newcomers to collecting, Tissot represents the ideal starting point — a trusted name that delivers reliability and timeless appeal. For seasoned enthusiasts, these pieces offer affordable versatility without compromising on quality.
Whether you’re searching for a dress watch, a sporty chronograph, or a reliable everyday companion, Tissot proves that Swiss luxury doesn’t have to come at a luxury price. With these 15 watches, owning a piece of horological history is more accessible than ever.
15. Tissot PRC 100 Solar
Closing the list is the Tissot PRC 100 Solar wristwatch. At 39mm, it’s a compact and efficient watch powered by solar energy. The PRC 100 combines Tissot’s precision with eco-friendly technology, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.
Specs Summary: 15 Tissot Watches Under $500
Model | Case Size | Movement | WR | Notable Features | Style |
Tissot PRX Quartz | 25mm - 40mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Integrated bracelet, retro 1970s design | Everyday / Casual |
Tissot PR 100 Quartz | 34mm - 41mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Classic dial, date window, versatile design | Everyday / Dress |
Tissot Gentleman Quartz | 40mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Polished hour markers, domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal | Dress / Business |
Tissot Classic Dream Quartz | 28mm - 42mm | Swiss Quartz | 50m | Roman numerals, elegant design | Dress |
Tissot Seastar 1000 Quartz | 36mm - 40mm | Swiss Quartz | 300m | Dive bezel, luminous hands, screw down crown, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with double-sided antireflective coating | Dive / Sport / Casual |
Tissot Ballade Quartz | 34mm - 40mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Guilloché dial, refined details | Dress |
Tissot Supersport Chrono Quartz | 45.5mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Chronograph, tachymeter, bold design | Sport / Chronograph |
Tissot Supersport NBA Special Edition | 45.5mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | NBA branding, chronograph | Sport / Collectible |
Tissot Stylist Quartz | 32x32mm | Swiss Quartz | 50m | Square case, vintage-inspired | Retro / Dress |
Tissot Everytime Quartz | 34mm - 40mm | Swiss Quartz | 50m | Minimalist design, versatile | Everyday / Minimalist |
Tissot Carson Premium Quartz | 30mm - 41mm | Swiss Quartz | 50m | Roman numerals, date window, Moon Phase, chronograph complication | Dress |
Tissot Chrono XL Classic Quartz | 45mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Large case, chronograph subdials | Sport / Casual |
Tissot Chrono XL Vintage Quartz | 45mm | Swiss Quartz | 100m | Vintage numerals, retro styling | Sport / Vintage |
Tissot Tradition Quartz | 42mm | Swiss Quartz | 30m | Curved case, textured guilloche dial, date window, domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal | Dress / Classic |
Tissot PRC 100 Solar Quartz | 39mm | Solar Quartz | 100m | Solar-powered, date window, compact size | Eco / Everyday |
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Tissot Under $500
Picking the right Tissot watch under $500 depends on your lifestyle and style preferences. If you’re into sport and adventure, the Seastar 1000 is the top choice for diving, while the Supersport Chrono and Chrono XL series bring bold chronograph functions for active use. For the office or formal events, refined options like the Gentleman, Ballade, and Carson Premium deliver elegance that pairs perfectly with a suit. If you prefer minimalism, the Everytime or PR 100 offer versatile simplicity that works every day. Fans of retro styling will enjoy the PRX with its 1970s-inspired integrated bracelet or the unique square-case Stylist. For eco-conscious buyers, the PRC 100 Solar is a smart choice, combining Swiss precision with sustainability.
No matter your taste, Tissot ensures that Swiss quality, durability, and timeless design remain within reach — even under $500.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tissot Watches Under $500
Are Tissot watches good quality?
Yes. Tissot is a Swiss watchmaker with over 170 years of heritage. Their watches are known for durable stainless steel cases, sapphire crystals, reliable Swiss quartz movements, and stylish designs. Even their affordable models under $500 maintain a high standard of quality.
Is Tissot a luxury brand?
Tissot is considered an entry-level Swiss luxury brand. While more accessible than brands like Omega or Rolex, Tissot still delivers the craftsmanship and precision associated with Swiss watchmaking. It’s often recommended as a first luxury watch.
Which is the best Tissot watch under $500?
The answer depends on your needs:
• For a versatile everyday piece: Tissot PRX
• For diving: Tissot Seastar 1000
• For dress occasions: Tissot Gentleman
• For sport and activity: Tissot Supersport Chrono
Do Tissot quartz watches last long?
Yes. Tissot quartz watches typically last many years with proper care. A standard quartz movement battery lasts 2–3 years, while the PRC 100 Solar offers solar-powered longevity without frequent battery changes.
Are Tissot watches worth buying?
Absolutely. Tissot offers one of the best values in the Swiss watch market, delivering heritage, precision, and style at prices that remain attainable. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned collector, a Tissot under $500 is a smart investment.
Conclusion: Swiss Value That Lasts
From the retro-cool PRX to the rugged Seastar and elegant Ballade, Tissot offers an impressive variety of watches under $500. Each model delivers a blend of precision, design, and heritage that reflects over a century of Swiss watchmaking excellence.
For newcomers to collecting, Tissot represents the ideal starting point — a trusted name that delivers reliability and timeless appeal. For seasoned enthusiasts, these pieces offer affordable versatility without compromising on quality.
Whether you’re searching for a dress watch, a sporty chronograph, or a reliable everyday companion, Tissot proves that Swiss luxury doesn’t have to come at a luxury price. With these 15 watches, owning a piece of horological history is more accessible than ever.
[photo credits: www.tissotwatches.com]
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